Pegfilgrastim is a medication prescribed to cancer patients undergoing myelosuppressive treatments. This medication helps reduce the risk of infection for these cancer patients. This medication is known to cause many side effects and has many warnings associated with use of it.
Medication Information
Pegfilgrastim (Neulasta) is an amino acid protein. The medication works in the body to stimulate the bone marrow to produce white blood cells. The white blood cells are responsible in the body to fighting infections. This decreases the cancer patients’ chance of developing a serious infection while undergoing treatment.
Warnings
Neulasta may not be safe to take if you are pregnant or breast feeding. It is important to tell your doctor if either applies to you. Any non prescription, prescription, supplements, and herbal remedies should be carefully discussed with a doctor before using the medication. People that have certain blood disorders, bone marrow leukemia, breathing or lung complications, or problems with the spleen may not be able to use neulasta. Patients with tissue and blood infections may not be able to take this medication. If you are undergoing other treatments for cancer such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy , let your doctor know.
Interactions
Pegfilgrastim has shown to interact poorly with lithium. If the two are mixed the side effects of Neulasta can increase. Avoid any lithium when taking this medication.
Usage Information
When prescribed this medication, it will be administered as an injection in the doctors’ office. It is important not to miss a dose so make sure all appointments are kept. Inform a doctor immediately if you develop a lump, bruising, or swelling at the injection site.
Side Effects
This medication can produce many serious side effects. Common side effects of the medication include bone, joint, and muscle pain. Constipation is another common side effect. More serious side effects are known to occur including allergic reaction, unusual pains in the left side of the body, and fast breathing. Chest pain and stomach pain are rare side effects. Shortness of breath and wheezing can also occur. The hands, feet, legs, and arms can become swollen.
Even more serious and sometimes fatal side effects can rarely occur with use of this medication. Spleen complications, including spleen ruptures, have been associated with use of neulasta.
Other Information
This medication should not be used on patients or children weighing less than 100 pounds. It is important to discuss with a dentist the medication before having any dental work done.
References:
“Pegfilgrastim” Drugs.com
“Neulasta” RxList.com