Medications

Medications and treatments that correct the common underlying causes of anemia include the following:

• Iron may be taken during pregnancy and when iron levels are low. It is important to determine the cause of iron deficiency and treat it properly.
  
  
• Vitamin supplements may replace folate and vitamin B12 in people with poor eating habits. In people with pernicious anemia who are unable to absorb sufficient amounts of vitamin B12, monthly injections of vitamin B12 are commonly used to replete the vitamin B 12 levels and correct the anemia.
  
  
• epoetin alfa (Procrit or Epogen) injection can be used to increase red blood cell production in people with kidney problems. The production of erythropoietin is reduced in people with advanced kidney disease, as described earlier.
  
  
• Stopping a medication that may be the cause of anemia may also reverse anemia after consultation with a physician.
  
  
• If alcohol is the cause of anemia, then in addition to taking vitamins and maintaining adequate nutrition, alcohol consumption needs to be stopped.

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Anemia - Symptoms Experienced

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

For anemia, what were the symptoms and signs you experienced?

Anonymously share your comment to help others.
See 10 Viewer Comments & Reviews

Submit Your Review