Double-blind: epoetin alfa, 150 units per kilogram [U/kg] of body weight, or placebo, injected under the patient's skin 3 times a week for 12 weeks or until the hematocrit level reaches 38% to 40%. Open-label: epoetin alfa, 200 U/kg, 3 times a week for up to 6 months (once weekly after hematocrit reaches 38% to 40%). Dose may be adjusted up to 1500 U/kg per week, as needed.