ADAP drugs: filgrastim

filgrastim
(Neupogen, G-CSF, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor)

Drug description

Filgrastim is used for treatment of neutropenia and infection in people who are receiving bone marrow suppressing drugs for cancer treatment. Neutropenia is a condition referring to a low number of neutrophils in the blood. Neutrophils are a white blood cell important in defending the body against infections. Neutropenia can be a side effect of drugs such as AZT and cancer treatments.

Side effects
Bone pain is a common side effect. Use of filgrastim should be avoided for 24 hours before and after chemotherapy.

Dosage
Filgrastim is given intravenously or subcutaneously. Dosage is 5 mcg/kg/day as a single injection daily for up to 2 weeks. Dosage may be increased to 5 mcg/kg during each cycle of chemotherapy depending on severity of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. Safety is not established in pregnant or breast feeding women.

How long it may take to work
Effectiveness of treatment is indicated by decreased incidence of infection.

Managing side effects
If you are giving G-CSF to yourself at home, do not reuse the needle, vial or syringe. You will be provided with the proper containers for disposal.

This information is specific to the use of this medication for HIV-related conditions. For additional information about this drug for other conditions, refer to: www.nursespdr.com/ and www.healthanswers.com/Library/library_fset.asp

The drug descriptions on these pages are intended for informational purposes only. The Network does not promote or endorse the use of any specific treatment for any health-related condition. The medications described here can only be dispensed by a licensed health care professional. The information may have changed since these pages were updated, though every effort is made to keep these pages current. Please contact The Network at (800) 734-7104 to make sure you have the most up-to-date information

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