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Erythroid Maturation Agent (TGF-β Ligand Trap)

Luspatercept

Brand names: Reblozyl

Luspatercept is a recombinant fusion protein (erythroid maturation agent) used to treat anaemia in adults with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassaemia and in certain lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It is a modified activin receptor type IIB ligand trap that binds selected TGF-beta superfamily ligands, reducing aberrant Smad2/3 signalling and promoting late-stage erythroid maturation to increase red cell production.

Prescribing in practice

  • It can cause hypertension, including significant rises in blood pressure, so measure and control blood pressure before and during treatment.
  • Thromboembolic events have been reported, particularly in beta-thalassaemia, so assess individual thrombotic risk.
  • It is given by subcutaneous injection on a recurring cycle and is not a treatment for acute anaemia requiring transfusion.

Monitoring

Monitor haemoglobin, transfusion requirements and blood pressure regularly throughout treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • This medicine is an injection given under the skin at scheduled intervals.
  • Report headache, dizziness or symptoms suggesting a clot such as limb swelling or chest pain.

Evidence & guidelines

Efficacy in transfusion-dependent beta-thalassaemia and lower-risk MDS was demonstrated in the BELIEVE and MEDALIST trials and is reflected in NICE technology appraisals.

Reference: MEDALIST trial (Fenaux et al. NEJM 2020); BELIEVE trial (Cappellini et al. NEJM 2020); NICE TA663; MHRA SPC Reblozyl; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways