After identifying the cause of anemia, treating it is the next step. Mild to moderate anemia can be treated by supplementing vitamin B12, iron or folic acid in your diet. Epogen and Procrit, genetically engineered versions of the drug, are commercially available. EPO will not be effective if the anemia is caused by iron deficiency, infection, cancer, blood loss, vitamin deficiency, aluminum poisoning or inflammatory bone disease. If the erythropoietin level is low, replacement therapy can be administered with shots which are given three times a week under the skin.
Erythropoietin usually leads to an increase in hemoglobin and hematocrit within two to six weeks.
Transfusion is an option People with AZT-induced anemia may choose to stay on AZT and have blood transfusions. They may also stop AZT therapy or decrease the dosage until their red blood cells recover. Dose reductions, however, may decrease the concentration of AZT in the blood to levels that are ineffective in stopping HIV replication. Due to the risk of infections, allergic reactions and other problems, blood transfusions should be used only in the presence of severe anemia. EPO is not an appropriate therapy for severe anemia and cannot replace the need for blood transfusions.