Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effect of two dosing regimens of darbepoetin alfa in patients with heart failure and anaemia

Aims Anaemia is common in chronic heart failure (CHF) and associated with worse outcome. This randomized, double-blind, placebo -controlled study evaluated the effect of two darbepoetin alfa dosing regimens on haemoglobin (Hb) rate of rise and clinical effects in patients with CHF and anaemia.Methods and results Patients with CHF (>= 3 months), left ventricutar ejection fraction (LVEF)Conclusion In this study of patients with CHF and anaemia, treatment with darbepoetin alfa raised Hb using different dosing regimens. Darbepoetin alfa improved some quality of life indices, but its safety requires further exploration. Larger trials are needed to determine the effects on long-term morbidity and mortality.