Pegfilgrastim (E. coli) Solution for injecti... Health Article

Generic name(s):

Pegfilgrastim (E. coli) Solution for injection

Brand name(s):

Neulasta

What is this medicine?

PEGFILGRASTIM (peg fil GRA stim) helps the body make more white blood cells. It is used to prevent infection in people with low amounts of white blood cells following cancer treatment.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• sickle cell disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to pegfilgrastim, filgrastim, E.coli protein, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Do not shake this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children who weigh more than 45 kg for selected conditions, precautions do apply

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• lithium
• medicines for growth therapy

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. You will need important blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• fever
• pain, redness, or swelling where injected
• shoulder pain
• stomach or side pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• aches, pains
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• unusually tired

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.