Epoetin β Once-Weekly Therapy in Anemic Patients with Solid Tumors and Non-Myeloid Hematological Malignancies Receiving Chemotherapy

<i>Objectives:</i> This study aimed to provide further clinical evidence for the efficacy and safety of epoetin β once weekly across a wide range of cancer types. <i>Methods:</i> This was a multicenter, open-label, prospective, single-arm study in patients with either a solid tumor or non-myeloid hematological malignancy, receiving or scheduled to receive further chemotherapy. Patients received epoetin β 30,000 IU subcutaneously once weekly for 16 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in hemoglobin (Hb) level according to the patient’s baseline Hb level. <i>Results:</i> A total of 691 patients were included in the intent-to-treat population. Epoetin β effectively increased Hb levels (a mean increase from baseline of 1.1 g/dl by week 4 and 2.2 g/dl by week 12). Hb response was achieved in 60.4% of all patients and 61.2% of those with baseline Hb <11 g/dl. Hb response was similar in patients with solid tumors (60.5%) and non-myeloid hematological malignancies (60.2%). Type of chemotherapy and baseline platelet count were independent predictive factors for response. Epoetin β treatment was well tolerated. <i>Conclusions:</i> Epoetin β 30,000 IU once weekly effectively increases Hb levels, is well tolerated and has similar efficacy in anemic patients with solid tumors or non-myeloid hematological malignancies.