Neulasta (Pegfilgrastim)

Information About Neulasta (Pegfilgrastim)

Neulasta is the brand name for pegfilgrastim, a long-acting form of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), a naturally occurring protein that stimulates the production of white blood cells (specifically neutrophils) in the bone marrow. It is used to help prevent neutropenia (low white blood cell count), which can occur as a side effect of chemotherapy. Neutropenia leaves patients more vulnerable to infections, and by boosting the production of neutrophils, Neulasta reduces this risk.

Neulasta is an injectable medication typically administered after chemotherapy treatments to reduce the risk of infection. It is a pegylated version of filgrastim, which means that it is attached to a polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecule, extending its half-life and allowing for less frequent dosing (typically once per chemotherapy cycle).

Product Highlights

• Neulasta is primarily indicated for:
• Neulasta is used to reduce the risk of infection in patients undergoing chemotherapy by preventing neutropenia, a condition characterized by low levels of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection).
• It is indicated for patients with non-myeloid cancers (e.g., breast cancer, lung cancer, etc.) who are receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy that can cause severe neutropenia.
• Neulasta may also be used in other specific cases, such as for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) undergoing chemotherapy, or for patients receiving stem cell transplants who need help recovering from low white blood cell counts.

Key Ingredient

• Pegfilgrastim

Key Benefits

• By stimulating the production of neutrophils, Neulasta helps reduce the risk of infections in patients undergoing chemotherapy, a treatment known to lower white blood cell counts.
• Since Neulasta is pegylated (modified with a PEG molecule), it stays in the body longer, allowing for a once-per-cycle injection as opposed to daily injections (which is the case with non-pegylated forms like filgrastim).
• Neulasta allows patients to continue their chemotherapy treatments without the risk of delayed or dose-reduced cycles due to neutropenia or related infections.
• By promoting the production of neutrophils, Neulasta helps accelerate recovery of the immune system after chemotherapy, which is crucial for reducing the risk of infection.

Direction of Use

• Neulasta is typically administered once per chemotherapy cycle. The standard dose is 6 mg, which is given as a subcutaneous injection.

Administration:

• Injection Site: The medication is administered via subcutaneous injection, usually in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.
• Timing: Neulasta is typically given 24 hours after chemotherapy, but it should never be given on the same day as chemotherapy.
• Self-Administration: In some cases, Neulasta may be administered by a patient at home, after receiving proper training. Healthcare providers will teach the patient how to safely inject the medication.
• Storage: Neulasta should be stored in the refrigerator and should not be frozen. It should be used before the expiration date and should be brought to room temperature before administration.

Safety Concerns

• One of the most common side effects of Neulasta is bone pain, which occurs because the medication stimulates the production of white blood cells in the bone marrow. This pain can typically be relieved with over-the-counter pain medications.
• There have been rare reports of splenic rupture (tearing of the spleen), which can cause abdominal pain and internal bleeding. Reach out to a healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain.
• Neulasta can cause an increase in white blood cell count (leukocytosis), which is generally not harmful but may require monitoring. Very high white blood cell counts could lead to complications.
• In some cases, Neulasta can cause lung-related issues, including shortness of breath and cough, which should be monitored closely.
• Although rare, some patients may experience allergic reactions to Neulasta, including rash, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Get in touch with your healthcare provider right away if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Some patients may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, though these symptoms are generally mild.

Avoid Neulasta (Pegfilgrastim) If

• Do not use Neulasta if you are allergic to pegfilgrastim or any of the other ingredients in the medication. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face or throat.
• Neulasta should not be used in patients who have had an allergic reaction to G-CSF (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) or filgrastim (the non-pegylated version of the drug).
• Neulasta should be avoided in patients with sickle cell disease, as it may increase the risk of complications associated with this condition, including sickle cell crisis.
• Do not use Neulasta if you have a history of splenic rupture or if you are experiencing any symptoms that suggest splenic rupture, such as severe abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness.
• Avoid using Neulasta if you have a history of severe respiratory disease or lung complications, as the drug may exacerbate these conditions.
• The safety of Neulasta during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication, as it may not be suitable in these situations.

This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.