On Tx w/peginteron and Riba-severe anemia

I was documenting my HGB plummeting and the message got away from me.  My doctor wants me to go on Epotien shots. I went from around 14 to 9 HGB after 25 weeks on TX.  I am an EVR went from 6 mil to 6,000 in fist month; then virus negative.  Geno 2, a relapser on Pegasys after 6 mo.s,  but I backed off the Riba during the last 1 month of  treatment.  

My concern with Epotein, I take med. for HBP, 20 mil. Prinivil, but my BP was 150/90 at last Dr. visit.  What I read is Epotein can cause blood clots and increase HBP.  Currently on Peg Interon-redi-pen and 800 mg. Riba daily.  The headaches are severe from the anemia.  I also take Xanax, 5 mg. and Esgic Plus to manage pain; one each daily.

25 weeks into TX, and need to know if Epotein could exacerbate the HBP and with my HGB so low, put me at risk for blood clots?  BTW, I am a female.

Thanks, also blood test for liver fibrosis shows me at 64m on the scale and liver/right quadrant/back pain is constant.

Advice?

[Douglas Dieterich, MD]

The Procrit is important now to keep your hemoglobin up. Take it! The risk of raising blood pressure is only theoretical, not mandatory and that is easy to treat. Actually it sounds like you need more blood pressure medication right now! Particularly since this is not your first treatment you need the ribavirin to prevent relapse and the Procrit will allow you to take it and take care of those headaches and fatigue from anemia. Good luck! DTD