• The medication is usually given once a week or three times a week, depending on several factors.
   
• Epogen comes as an injection that is given under the skin (subcutaneously) or by IV infusion.
   
• In some situations, you may be able to give yourself Epogen injections (under the skin, not by IV) at home. In this case, your healthcare provider should teach you exactly how to give yourself the injections.
   
• Never shake Epogen, as it is a delicate molecule that could be damaged by shaking.
   
• You will need regular blood tests while taking Epogen to see how well the medicine is working.
   
• It is important that your body has enough iron, otherwise Epogen cannot work well. Your healthcare provider may recommend iron supplements in some situations.
   
• For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Epogen will not work if you stop taking it.
   

• The cause of your anemia
• How you respond to Epogen (as measured by blood tests)
• Your weight
• Other medications you may be taking
• Other medical conditions you may have.