Why is this medication prescribed?

Neulasta is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient pegfilgrastim. It is primarily prescribed to reduce the risk of infection in individuals who are undergoing cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can often lead to a decrease in the number of white blood cells (neutropenia), which are essential for the body’s immune system to fight infections. Neulasta helps stimulate the bone marrow to produce more white blood cells, thus reducing the risk of infection.

How should this medicine be used?

• Administration: Neulasta is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection. This means it is injected just beneath the skin, usually in the arm, thigh, or stomach area.
• Timing: It is commonly given approximately 24 hours after chemotherapy is administered. This allows Neulasta to stimulate the bone marrow at the optimal time for increased white blood cell production.
• Dosage: The specific dosage and treatment schedule will be determined by the prescribing healthcare provider based on the individual’s condition, the type of cancer being treated, and the specific chemotherapy regimen.
• Healthcare Professional: Neulasta injections should always be administered by a healthcare professional, such as a nurse or doctor.
• Self-Administration: In some cases, patients may be taught how to administer the injection themselves at home. If this is the case, it is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider carefully.

It is essential for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare team about any side effects or concerns they may have while taking Neulasta or undergoing cancer treatment. As with any medication, there can be side effects, and healthcare providers will monitor the patient’s response to treatment to ensure its safety and efficacy.

Other uses for this medicine

Neulasta’s primary use is to reduce the risk of infection in patients undergoing cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy. However, medical research and approved uses for medications can evolve over time, so it’s possible that new uses or indications may have emerged since then. Always consult with a healthcare professional or refer to the latest prescribing information to get the most up-to-date information on Neulasta’s approved uses.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions for Neulasta:

• Allergies: Patients with known allergies to pegfilgrastim or other components of Neulasta should not use this medication.
• Bone Pain: Neulasta can cause bone pain as a side effect. If patients experience severe or persistent bone pain, they should inform their healthcare provider.
• Spleen Problems: In some cases, Neulasta can cause an enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly), which may be severe and life-threatening. Patients should be monitored for signs of spleen problems during treatment.
• Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): There have been rare reports of ARDS in patients receiving Neulasta. If patients experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain, they should seek immediate medical attention.
• Glomerulonephritis: In rare cases, glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units) has been reported in patients treated with Neulasta. Patients should be monitored for signs of kidney problems during treatment.
• Leukocytosis: Neulasta can cause abnormally high white blood cell counts, which can lead to potential complications. Regular blood tests should be conducted to monitor white blood cell levels.
• Tumor Growth: There have been reports of potential growth of myeloid cells in patients with myeloid malignancies using Neulasta. The benefits and risks of Neulasta treatment should be carefully considered in these patients.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Neulasta should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known if Neulasta is excreted in human breast milk, so breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment.
• Interactions: Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products they are taking, as certain drugs may interact with Neulasta.

As with any medication, it’s crucial for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and report any concerning side effects promptly. Neulasta is a potent medication that requires close monitoring during its use, so regular communication with the healthcare team is essential for the patient’s safety and well-being.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Neulasta does not typically require any specific dietary instructions. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a well-balanced and nutritious diet to support your overall health and immune system, especially during cancer treatment. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients to support your body’s needs.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Neulasta, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider or oncology team immediately. Missing a dose can affect the effectiveness of the medication in stimulating white blood cell production, which is crucial for reducing the risk of infection during chemotherapy. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the appropriate steps to take in case of a missed dose. It’s essential not to administer extra doses or double up on injections without your healthcare provider’s approval.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Neulasta, like any medication, can cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Some of the common side effects of Neulasta include:

• Bone Pain: One of the most common side effects of Neulasta is bone pain, which can be mild to severe. The pain is often felt in the long bones, such as the arms and legs, and usually occurs within a few days of receiving the medication.
• Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, or pain at the site of injection is possible.
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Neulasta, which can include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Immediate medical attention is necessary if any signs of an allergic reaction occur.
• Spleen Problems: Neulasta can cause an enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly) in some cases, which may lead to abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness.
• Respiratory Problems: There have been rare reports of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in patients receiving Neulasta.
• Kidney Problems: Glomerulonephritis, inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units, has been reported in some patients treated with Neulasta.
• Leukocytosis: Neulasta can cause abnormally high white blood cell counts, which may lead to complications in some cases.
• Tumor Growth: In rare instances, Neulasta may lead to the potential growth of myeloid cells in patients with myeloid malignancies.

It’s important for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare provider about any side effects they experience while taking Neulasta. Healthcare providers can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust the treatment plan if necessary to minimize discomfort and potential complications.

If you experience severe or persistent side effects or have concerns about Neulasta, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can provide appropriate advice and support throughout your treatment process.

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

Storage and Disposal of Neulasta:

• Storage: Neulasta should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze the medication. Keep it in the original packaging to protect it from light.
• Do not shake: Avoid shaking the vial or prefilled syringe as this can affect the medication’s efficacy.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store Neulasta in a secure place to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
• Do not use expired medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Neulasta if it has expired.
• Disposal: Properly dispose of any unused or expired Neulasta in accordance with local regulations and guidelines. You can consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist on how to dispose of the medication safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or an accidental overdose of Neulasta, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. If possible, take the medication’s packaging or vial with you to provide relevant information to healthcare professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to Neulasta and perform blood tests to assess white blood cell counts and any potential side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure all healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, and dentists, are aware that you are taking Neulasta. This information is essential, especially if you need any medical procedures or surgery.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your healthcare provider before starting Neulasta, as its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed carefully.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as Neulasta may interact with certain drugs.
• Self-Administration: If you are instructed to self-administer Neulasta at home, ensure you understand the correct injection technique and follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
• Follow-up Appointments: Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and address any concerns or questions you may have.

Remember, Neulasta is a prescription medication, and it should only be used as directed by your healthcare provider. If you have any doubts or questions about Neulasta or its use, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare team for appropriate guidance.