Effects of Exogenous Erythropoietin on Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) Hematological and Biochemical Parameters

Comp Med. 2023 Dec 1;73(6):439-445. doi: 10.30802/AALAS-CM-22-000107. Epub 2023 Nov 15.

Abstract

Rabbits can develop anemia due to serial phlebotomy or secondary to induced disease states. This study evaluated the effects of a single injection and three consecutive injections of erythropoietin in rabbits at 150 IU/kg and 1,000 IU/kg in order to determine whether these dosages produce a sustained increase in hematocrit. Analysis of CBC and chemistry parameters showed significant elevation in hematocrit one week after administration of 1,000 IU/kg erythropoietin for three consecutive days. These results indicate that this dosage regimen can increase hematocrit in apparently healthy, nonanemic rabbits for one week.

MeSH terms

  • Anemia* / drug therapy
  • Animals
  • Erythropoietin* / adverse effects
  • Hematocrit
  • Injections
  • Rabbits
  • Recombinant Proteins / adverse effects

Substances

  • Erythropoietin
  • Recombinant Proteins