A Study of Monthly Subcutaneous Continuous Erythropoietin Receptor Activator (CERA) in Predialysis Participants With Chronic Renal Anemia

A Single Arm, Open Label Study to Assess the Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability of Once Monthly Administration of Subcutaneous C.E.R.A. for the Maintenance of Haemoglobin Levels in Pre-Dialysis Patients With Chronic Renal Anaemia

This single arm study will assess the long term maintenance of hemoglobin (Hb) levels, safety and tolerability of once monthly subcutaneous methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta (CERA) in predialysis participants with chronic renal anemia. Participants currently receiving subcutaneous darbopoetin alfa maintenance treatment will receive subcutaneous methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta for a maximum of 32 weeks at a starting dose of 120, 200 or 360 micrograms every 4 weeks according to the dose of darbopoetin alfa administered in Week -1. Subsequent doses will be adjusted to maintain hemoglobin levels within the target range of 10 to 12 grams per deciliter (g/dL).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Chronic renal anemia;
• Continuous subcutaneous maintenance darbopoetin alfa treatment during previous month;
• Hb concentration between 10 and 12 g/dL;
• Adequate iron status.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Transfusion of red blood cells during previous 2 months;
• Significant acute or chronic bleeding, such as overt gastrointestinal bleeding;
• Poorly controlled hypertension requiring hospitalization or interruption of darbopoetin alfa treatment in the previous 6 months;
• Active malignant disease.