Erythropoietin API Manufacturers & Suppliers
3 verified resultsCommercial-scale Suppliers
All certificates
All certificates
All certificates







Erythropoietin | CAS No: 11096-26-7 | GMP-certified suppliers
A medication that treats anemia in chronic kidney disease, zidovudine‑treated HIV infection, and myelosuppressive chemotherapy while reducing transfusion needs in selected surgeries.
Therapeutic categories
Primary indications
- Indicated in adult and paediatric patients for the:
- Treatment of anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis
- Treatment of anemia due to zidovudine in patients with HIV-infection
- Treatment of anemia due to the effects of concomitant myelosuppressive chemotherapy, and upon initiation, there is a minimum of two additional months of planned chemotherapy
Product Snapshot
- Erythropoietin is an injectable recombinant biologic supplied mainly as solutions or lyophilized powder for parenteral use
- It is used for anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, myelosuppressive chemotherapy, HIV‑related zidovudine therapy, and for reducing transfusion needs in selected surgical settings
- It is approved in major regulated markets including the US, EU, and Canada
Clinical Overview
Epoetin alfa restores deficient erythropoietin activity by engaging the erythropoietin receptor on erythroid precursors. Ligand binding induces receptor conformational change and activates JAK2, leading to downstream phosphorylation of STAT5 and other signaling proteins. STAT5 dimerization and nuclear translocation drive transcription of genes promoting erythroblast survival and differentiation, including anti‑apoptotic pathways such as Bcl‑x. Additional JAK2‑dependent activation of Shc, PI3K, and phospholipase C‑γ1 contributes to erythroid cell proliferation and survival.
Pharmacodynamically, reticulocyte counts typically rise within about 10 days of treatment, with hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red cell mass increasing over 2 to 6 weeks. Responses vary by dose, and in hemodialysis patients, doses above approximately 300 Units/kg three times weekly do not produce enhanced biological effect.
Epoetin alfa has an approximate molecular weight of 30.4 kDa and shares the amino acid sequence and biological activity of endogenous erythropoietin. Intravenous and subcutaneous administration are both used clinically. Absorption, distribution, and elimination parameters vary with route, disease state, and formulation; systemic clearance largely reflects receptor‑mediated uptake and catabolism.
Safety considerations include risks of hypertension, thromboembolic events, excessive hemoglobin rise, and pure red cell aplasia. Dose adjustments are guided by hemoglobin trends, and iron status must be monitored. Biosimilars such as epoetin alfa‑epbx and epoetin zeta are approved in multiple regions and maintain comparable potency and quality to reference products.
For API procurement, sourcing should prioritize validated recombinant cell lines, consistent glycosylation profiles, robust control of host‑cell protein and DNA impurities, and comprehensive characterization to meet regional biologics quality standards.
Identification & chemistry
| Generic name | Erythropoietin |
|---|---|
| Molecule type | Biotech |
| CAS | 11096-26-7 |
| UNII | 64FS3BFH5W |
| DrugBank ID | DB00016 |
Pharmacology
| Summary | Epoetin alfa is an exogenous erythropoietin analog that binds the erythropoietin receptor on erythroid progenitor cells to restore deficient signaling. Receptor engagement activates JAK2-mediated pathways, including STAT5, PI3K, and other effectors that promote erythroid cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation. These actions increase reticulocyte production and support normalization of erythrocyte mass in conditions with impaired endogenous erythropoietin activity. |
|---|---|
| Mechanism of action | Erythropoietin or exogenous epoetin alfa binds to the erythropoietin receptor (EPO-R) and activates intracellular signal transduction pathways . The affinity (Kd) of EPO for its receptor on human cells is ∼100 to 200 pM . Upon binding to EPO-R on the surface of erythroid progenitor cells, a conformational change is induced which brings EPO-R-associated Janus family tyrosine protein kinase 2 (JAK2) molecules into close proximity. JAK2 molecules are subsequently activated via phosphorylation, then phosphorylate tyrosine residues in the cytoplasmic domain of the EPO-R that serve as docking sites for Src homology 2-domain-containing intracellular signaling proteins . The signalling proteins include STAT5 that once phosphorylated by JAK2, dissociates from the EPO-R, dimerizes, and translocates to the nucleus where they serve as transcription factors to activate target genes involved in cell division or differentiation, including the apoptosis inhibitor Bcl-x . The inhibition of apoptosis by the EPO-activated JAK2/STAT5/Bcl-x pathway is critical in erythroid differentiation. Via JAK2-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation, erythropoietin and epoetin alfa also activates other intracellular proteins involved in erythroid cell proliferation and survival, such as Shc , phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and phospholipase C-γ1 . |
| Pharmacodynamics | Erythropoietin and epoetin alfa are involved in the regulation of erythrocyte differentiation and the maintenance of a physiological level of circulating erythrocyte mass. It is reported to increase the reticulocyte count within 10 days of initiation, followed by increases in the RBC count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, usually within 2 to 6 weeks . Depending on the dose administered, the rate of hemoglobin increase may vary. In patients receiving hemodialysis, a greater biologic response is not observed at doses exceeding 300 Units/kg 3 times weekly . Epoetin alfa serves to restore erythropoietin deficiency in pathological and other clinical conditions where normal production of erythropoietin is impaired or compromised. In anemic patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), administration with epoetin alfa stimulated erythropoiesis by increasing the reticulocyte count within 10 days, followed by increases in the red cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, usually within 2 to 6 weeks [FDA Label]. Epoetin alfa was shown to be effective in increasing hematocrit in zidovudine-treated HIV-infected patients and anemic cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy [FDA Label]. |
Targets
| Target | Organism | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Erythropoietin receptor | Humans | agonist |
ADME / PK
| Absorption | The time to reach peak concentration is slower via the subcutaneous route than the intravenous route which ranges from 20 to 25 hours, and the peak is always well below the peak achieved using the intravenous route (5–10% of those seen with IV administration).The bioavailability of subcutaneous injectable erythropoietin is much lower than that of the intravenously administered product and is approximately 20-40%. **Adult and paediatric patients with CRF:** Following subcutaneous administration, the peak plasma levels are achieved within 5 to 24 hours [FDA Label]. **Cancer patients receiving cyclic chemotherapy:** The average time to reach peak plasma concentration was approximately 13.3 ± 12.4 hours after 150 Units/kg three times per week (TIW) subcutaneous (SC) dosing. The Cmax is expected be 3- to 7- fold higher and the Tmax is expected to be 2- to 3-fold longer in patients receiving a 40,000 Units SC weekly dosing regimen [FDA Label]. |
|---|---|
| Half-life | **Healthy volunteers:** The half life is approximately 4 hours in healthy volunteers receiving an intravenous injection . A half-life of approximately 6 hours has been reported in children . **Adult and paediatric patients with CRF:** The elimination half life following intravenous administration ranges from 4 to 13 hours, which is about 20% longer in CRF patients than that in healthy subjects. The half life is reported to be similar between adult patients receiving or not receiving dialysis [FDA Label]. **Cancer patients receiving cyclic chemotherapy:** Following subcutaneous administration, the average half life is 40 hours with range of 16 to 67 hours [FDA Label]. |
| Protein binding | No information of serum protein binding available. |
| Metabolism | Binding of erythropoietin and epoetin alfa to EPO-R leads to cellular internalization, which involves the degradation of the ligand. Erythropoietin and epoetin alfa may also be degraded by the reticuloendothelial scavenging pathway or lymphatic system . |
| Route of elimination | Erythropoietin and epoetin alfa are cleared via uptake and degradation via the EPO-R-expressing cells, and may also involve other cellular pathways in the interstitium, probably via cells in the reticuloendothelial scavenging pathway or lymphatic system . Only a small amount of unchanged epoetin alfa is found in the urine . |
| Volume of distribution | In healthy volunteers, the volume of distribution of intravenous epoetin alfa was generally similar to the plasma volume (range of 40–63.80 mL/kg), indicating limited extravascular distribution . |
| Clearance | **Healthy volunteers: ** In male volunteers receiving intravenous epoetin alfa, the total body clearance was approximately 8.12 ± 1.00 mL/h/kg . **Cancer patients receiving cyclic chemotherapy:** The average clearance was approximately 20.2 ± 15.9 mL/h/kg after 150 Units/kg three times per week (TIW) subcutaneous (SC) dosing [FDA Label]. The patients receiving a 40,000 Units SC weekly dosing regimen display a lower clearance (9.2 ± 4.7 mL/h/kg) [FDA Label]. |
Formulation & handling
- Recombinant glycoprotein biologic requiring parenteral administration (IV or SC) due to degradation in the GI tract.
- Cold‑chain handling is required; the protein is sensitive to agitation, heat, and freeze–thaw cycles.
- Formulations use aqueous solutions or lyophilized powder; avoid vigorous mixing to maintain structural integrity and activity.
Regulatory status
| Lifecycle | The API’s Canadian patent expired in 2014, and with established availability across the EU, US, and Canada, the product is in a mature, post‑exclusivity phase. Market dynamics are consistent with a well‑established generic environment. |
|---|
| Markets | EU, US, Canada |
|---|
Supply Chain
| Supply chain summary | Erythropoietin is supplied by several pharmaceutical manufacturers and packagers, with the originator role historically associated with companies marketing recombinant erythropoietin in major regulated markets. Branded products are established across the EU, US, and Canada. The listed Canadian patent expired in 2014, indicating that generic and biosimilar competition is already present or well‑established. |
|---|
Safety
| Toxicity | Overdose from epoetin alfa include signs and symptoms associated with an excessive and/or rapid increase in hemoglobin concentration, including cardiovascular events. Patients with suspected or known overdose should be monitored closely for cardiovascular events and hematologic abnormalities. Polycythemia should be managed acutely with phlebotomy, as clinically indicated. Following resolution of the overdose, reintroduction of epoetin alfa therapy should be accompanied by close monitoring for evidence of rapid increases in hemoglobin concentration (>1 gm/dL per 14 days). In patients with an excessive hematopoietic response, reduce the dose in accordance with the recommendations described in the drug label [FDA Label]. |
|---|
- Rapid hemoglobin elevations from excessive exposure can precipitate cardiovascular events and other hematologic disturbances
- Compounds should be handled with controls that minimize risk of accidental high‑dose administration during development or manufacturing
- Excessive erythropoietic activity and polycythemia have been observed in overdose scenarios
Erythropoietin is a type of Erythropoietic growth factors
Erythropoietic growth factors belong to the subcategory of pharmaceutical active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that are specifically designed to stimulate the production of red blood cells in the body. These growth factors play a crucial role in the treatment of various medical conditions associated with reduced red blood cell production, such as anemia caused by chronic kidney disease, cancer, or certain types of chemotherapy.
The primary erythropoietic growth factor used in pharmaceutical formulations is recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO). This synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone erythropoietin is produced using biotechnology processes, ensuring high purity and potency. RhEPO acts by binding to specific receptors on bone marrow cells, thereby promoting the production and maturation of red blood cells.
The use of erythropoietic growth factors has significantly improved the management of anemia-related conditions. By increasing red blood cell count, these pharmaceutical APIs help enhance oxygen-carrying capacity, leading to improved energy levels and reduced fatigue in patients. Additionally, they have the potential to reduce the need for blood transfusions, which can be associated with certain risks and complications.
When formulating medications containing erythropoietic growth factors, stringent quality control measures are employed to ensure product safety and efficacy. These APIs are typically formulated into injectable formulations to allow for precise dosing and rapid absorption.
In conclusion, erythropoietic growth factors, particularly recombinant human erythropoietin, are vital pharmaceutical APIs used to stimulate red blood cell production in various medical conditions. Their use has revolutionized the management of anemia-related disorders and improved the quality of life for many patients.
Erythropoietin (Erythropoietic growth factors), classified under Hematopoietic Agents
Hematopoietic agents are a category of pharmaceutical active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that play a crucial role in the treatment of various blood disorders and diseases. These agents stimulate the production, maturation, and function of blood cells, particularly those involved in the process of hematopoiesis, which is the formation of new blood cells.
One of the commonly used hematopoietic agents is erythropoietin, a glycoprotein hormone that regulates red blood cell production. It is employed in the treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, cancer chemotherapy, and certain other conditions. Another important hematopoietic agent is granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which stimulates the production of white blood cells known as neutrophils. G-CSF is used to prevent infections in patients undergoing chemotherapy and to enhance the recovery of blood cell counts after bone marrow transplantation.
Thrombopoietin receptor agonists are another class of hematopoietic agents that promote the production of platelets, essential for blood clotting. These agents find applications in the management of thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by low platelet counts.
Hematopoietic agents are typically administered through injections or infusions, and their dosage and frequency vary depending on the specific indication and patient's response. While these agents provide critical therapeutic benefits, their use requires careful monitoring to ensure optimal efficacy and safety.
In conclusion, hematopoietic agents are vital pharmaceutical APIs used to stimulate the production of blood cells and treat various blood disorders. Their use significantly improves patients' quality of life and plays a crucial role in managing hematological conditions.
Erythropoietin API manufacturers & distributors
Compare qualified Erythropoietin API suppliers worldwide. We currently have 3 companies offering Erythropoietin API, with manufacturing taking place in 3 different countries. Use the table below to review supplier type, countries of origin, certifications, product portfolio and GMP audit availability.
| Supplier | Type | Country | Product origin | Certifications | Portfolio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apino Pharma Co., Ltd. | Producer | China | China | BSE/TSE, CoA, GMP, ISO9001, MSDS, USDMF | 229 products |
| AXXO GmbH | Distributor | Germany | World | CoA, GMP, GDP, MSDS, USDMF | 243 products |
| Lek Pharma | Producer | Slovenia | Slovenia | CoA, GMP | 32 products |
When sending a request, specify which Erythropoietin API quality you need: for example EP (Ph. Eur.), USP, JP, BP, or another pharmacopoeial standard, as well as the required grade (base, salt, micronised, specific purity, etc.).
Use the list above to find high-quality Erythropoietin API suppliers. For example, you can select GMP, FDA or ISO certified suppliers. Visit our help page to learn more about sourcing APIs via Pharmaoffer.
