Patient Information > Anadrol differs from others

Anadrol^®-50 (oxymetholone) differs from Procrit^®, Epogen^® and Aranesp^®

Anadrol-50 does not have the FDA safety warnings as these products

In February, March and November of 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued alerts to provide new safety information for erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) under the brand names Aranesp^® (darbepoetin alfa), Epogen^® (epoetin alfa), and Procrit^® (epoetin alfa). Analyses of six new studies in patients with cancer, using ESAs, found a higher chance of serious and life-threatening side effects and/or death with the use of ESAs. To read the full FDA safety warnings, see these links:

1. FDA's Public Health Advisory for Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents
2. FDA's Ongoing Safety Review, Nov. 2007
3. FDA's Q&A about ESAs, Nov. 2007

While similar in treating anemia, Anadrol^®-50 (oxymetholone) is different than the brands Aranesp®, Epogen^®, and Procrit^®. Anadrol-50 belongs to a class of drugs called anabolic steroids, which are similar to the male hormone testosterone. Anadrol-50 is the only oral anabolic steroid that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of anemias caused by deficient red blood cell production. Unlike some other anabolic steroids, which must be injected often, Anadrol-50 is a tablet that is taken by mouth. Also, Anadrol-50 does not replace other supportive measures, but works together with other treatments that your doctor may give you for anemia. SEE FULL BOXED WARNING FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE CONDITIONS IN THE FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION.

Speak to your doctor about anemia, Anadrol-50, and recent FDA safety warnings:

1. Print this page for discussion
2. Print the “Questions for Your Doctor about Anemia and Anadrol-50”