Pegfilgrastim is a drug to overcome low levels of neutrophils in the blood (neutropenia). Neutrophils are one of the types of white blood cells that play an important role in fighting infection. Pegfilgrastim is commonly used to treat neutropenia due to chemotherapy procedures.
Pegfilgrastim is a protein that works by stimulating the growth of white blood cells. An adequate amount of white blood cells will help the body fight infection. This medicine is available in injectable form and should be used according to the doctor's prescription.
Pegfilgrastim trademark: Neulastim
What is Pegfilgrastim
| Group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Haematopoietic agents |
| Benefits | Overcoming neutropenia |
| Used by | Adults and children |
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Pegfilgrastim for pregnant and lactating women
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Category C: Studies on experimental animals show side effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies on pregnant women. Medicines can only be used if the magnitude of the expected benefit exceeds the magnitude of the risk to the fetus.
It is not yet known whether pegfilgrastim can be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without telling your doctor. |
| Drug form | Injection |
Precautions Before Using Pegfilgrastim
Pegfilgrastim should not be used indiscriminately. Before using pegfilgrastim, you need to pay attention to the following things:
- Do not use pegfilgrastim if you are allergic to this medicine.
- Tell your doctor if you have had or are suffering from sickle cell anemia , kidney disease, chronic myelocytic leukemia , myelodysplasia syndrome , latex allergy, or undergoing radiation therapy.
- Tell the doctor that you are undergoing treatment with pegfilgrastim, before undergoing surgery, including dental surgery.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
- See a doctor immediately if you experience a drug allergic reaction or overdose after using pegfilgrastim.
Dosage and Administration of Pegfilgrastim
Pegfilgrastim is given by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. The general dose of pegfilgrastim is 6 mg as a single dose. Given every cycle of chemotherapy, at least 24 hours after chemotherapy.
For pediatric patients, the doctor will adjust the dose based on the patient's weight and general health condition.
How to Use Pegfilgrastim Correctly
Pegfilgrastim injection will be given directly by a doctor or medical staff under the supervision of a doctor.
The drug will be injected under the skin layer and given at least 14 days before or 24 hours after the patient undergoes chemotherapy. Always follow the control and injection schedule given by the doctor.
Store pegfilgrastim in a place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of the reach of children.
Interactions of Pegfilgrastim with Other Drugs
Pegfilgrastim can cause a drug interaction in the form of a decrease in the therapeutic effect of the drug if used together with the drug pegloticase.
Side Effects and Dangers of Pegfilgrastim
Some of the side effects that can occur after using pegfilgrastim are:
- Muscle pain
- Bone pain
- Redness, swelling, or itching, in the area where the injection was given
- Fever
- Turn
- Urine is red or dark brown
- Swelling in the leg
- Decreased amount and frequency of urination
- Back pain
See a doctor if you experience the side effects mentioned above. Immediately see a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction that can be marked by symptoms, such as swelling of the lips and eyelids, an itchy rash, or difficulty breathing, after using pegfilgrastim.