Why is this medication prescribed?

Nivestym (filgrastim-aafi) is a prescription medication used in certain medical situations. Nivestym is a biosimilar version of filgrastim, which is a man-made form of a naturally occurring protein called granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF).

Nivestym is primarily prescribed to:

• Reduce the risk of infection: It is used to prevent or treat febrile neutropenia, a condition characterized by a low number of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) and the presence of a fever. This condition commonly occurs in patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer treatment. Chemotherapy can suppress the bone marrow’s ability to produce white blood cells, leaving the patient vulnerable to infections. Nivestym stimulates the bone marrow to produce more white blood cells, thereby reducing the risk of infection.
• Support bone marrow recovery: Nivestym may be prescribed to patients undergoing bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. These procedures often lead to a temporary decrease in white blood cell count, making the patient susceptible to infections. Nivestym can help accelerate the recovery of white blood cells after transplantation.

How should this medicine be used?

However, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s specific instructions regarding the dosage and administration of this medication. Dosage and treatment plans can vary based on individual health conditions and the purpose of treatment. Here are some general points to consider:

• Administration: Nivestym is typically administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous injection) or through a vein (intravenous infusion). The method of administration and the frequency of injections will be determined by your doctor.
• Healthcare Professional: Nivestym should only be administered by a healthcare professional or as instructed by your doctor. They will show you how to properly inject the medication if necessary.
• Dosage: The dosage of Nivestym will vary depending on the purpose of treatment and the patient’s individual needs. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not change the dose without consulting your doctor.
• Timing: The timing and duration of Nivestym treatment will be determined by your doctor based on the underlying medical condition and treatment plan. It is essential to follow the prescribed schedule and not miss any doses.
• Precautions: Before starting Nivestym treatment, inform your doctor about any allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are currently taking. This will help avoid any potential interactions or adverse effects.
• Storage: Follow the storage instructions provided with the medication. Keep Nivestym in the original packaging and store it at the recommended temperature and away from direct sunlight or heat.
• Dispose of Sharps Safely: If self-administering Nivestym injections, be sure to dispose of used needles and syringes properly in a sharps container to prevent accidental injuries or infections.

Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or side effects you experience during treatment. They are the best source of guidance and will monitor your progress to ensure the treatment is effective and safe for you.

Please remember that the information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific instructions on how to use Nivestym, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Nivestym (filgrastim) is primarily used to treat neutropenia (low white blood cell count) associated with cancer treatments, bone marrow transplantation, and peripheral blood progenitor cell collection. However, off-label uses for medications can exist, meaning it might be prescribed for other conditions not officially approved by regulatory authorities. Off-label use should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional who has evaluated the potential benefits and risks for the individual patient.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Nivestym (Filgrastim):

• Allergies: If you are allergic to filgrastim or any of its components, inform your healthcare provider before using Nivestym.
• Sickle Cell Disease: Individuals with sickle cell disease may be at increased risk of developing sickle cell crisis while using filgrastim. Inform your doctor if you have this condition before starting treatment.
• Leukemia: Nivestym is not recommended for use in patients with leukemia unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Capillary Leak Syndrome: Filgrastim can sometimes cause a condition called capillary leak syndrome, which is characterized by fluid leaking from blood vessels into surrounding tissues. This can lead to a drop in blood pressure and other serious complications. If you experience symptoms such as swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
• Enlarged Spleen: If you have an enlarged spleen or a history of spleen problems, inform your healthcare provider before using Nivestym, as it may worsen these conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Nivestym with your doctor. The use of filgrastim during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered and prescribed only when necessary.
• Infection: Nivestym is designed to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which can increase the risk of infection. If you experience signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat, etc.), inform your healthcare provider immediately.
• Bone Pain: Some individuals may experience bone pain while using filgrastim. If this occurs, inform your healthcare provider, as they may recommend pain relief options.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor your response to Nivestym and ensure it is not causing any adverse effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any side effects or concerns during the course of Nivestym treatment. The information provided here is not exhaustive, and it’s essential to consult your healthcare professional for the most up-to-date and personalized guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

However, when undergoing cancer treatments or managing conditions that require Nivestym, it is essential to follow any dietary guidelines provided by your healthcare team. These guidelines might be related to your overall health, nutritional needs, and specific medical conditions. For example, cancer treatments can sometimes cause changes in appetite, taste preferences, or digestion, so your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian may suggest dietary modifications to address these issues and ensure proper nutrition.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a scheduled dose of Nivestym, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider or treatment team as soon as possible. Missing a dose could impact the effectiveness of the treatment, so they will guide you on what to do next. In some cases, they may adjust the treatment schedule or administer the missed dose at a later time.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Nivestym (filgrastim) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it may cause side effects in some individuals. The side effects can vary in severity, and not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of Nivestym may include:

• Bone Pain: This is one of the most common side effects of filgrastim. Patients may experience mild to moderate bone pain, typically in the lower back, hips, and pelvis.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while using Nivestym.
• Redness or Swelling at the Injection Site: Since Nivestym is administered through injections, redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site may occur.
• Fatigue: Patients might experience increased tiredness or fatigue during treatment.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting, particularly in the initial stages of treatment.
• Fever: Filgrastim can cause an increase in body temperature, leading to fever or chills.
• Decreased Appetite: Some patients may experience a reduced appetite during treatment.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as diarrhea or constipation, may occur.
• Dizziness: Nivestym may cause dizziness in some individuals.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some patients may experience allergic reactions to filgrastim, which may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

It’s important to note that the side effects mentioned above are not exhaustive, and individual responses to the medication can vary. Some patients may experience more severe side effects, while others may have none at all.

If you are prescribed Nivestym or any other medication, it’s crucial to discuss potential side effects and any concerns you may have with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized information and guidance, as well as help manage any side effects that may arise during your treatment. Additionally, inform your healthcare team of any other medications you are taking, as certain drug interactions could impact the side effects experienced.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Nivestym (Filgrastim):

Storage:

• Nivestym is usually stored by healthcare professionals in clinical settings such as hospitals or clinics. It is typically provided in single-use vials or prefilled syringes.
• The medication should be stored as directed by the healthcare provider or in accordance with the storage guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Disposal:

• Since Nivestym is administered by healthcare professionals, they will handle the disposal of any unused medication or medical waste according to established protocols and guidelines.
• Patients should not attempt to dispose of Nivestym on their own. Instead, they should return any unused medication to their healthcare provider for proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the unlikely event of an emergency or overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local emergency services. It’s essential to inform the medical professionals about the specific medication taken, including the name, strength, and dose of Nivestym.

What other information should I know

• Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies or medical conditions you have before starting Nivestym.
• Share a complete list of all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements) you are taking with your healthcare provider to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Attend all scheduled appointments and follow-up visits as recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Report any side effects or unusual reactions to Nivestym to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Do not change the dosage or frequency of Nivestym without consulting your healthcare provider.
• If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider or treatment team immediately for guidance on what to do next.
• It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the timing and frequency of Nivestym injections for the best treatment outcomes.

Always consult your healthcare provider or treatment team for the most up-to-date and accurate information specific to your situation. They can provide personalized guidance and address any questions or concerns you may have about Nivestym or your treatment plan.