Filgrastim Injection (FILGRASTIM - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • blood cell disorder
  • bone marrow transplant
  • chemotherapy complications

Brand Name(s): Neupogen, Nivestym

Generic Name: Filgrastim, Filgrastim-aafi

Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If using the vial, do not remove the medicine from the vial until ready to use.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Do not shake the medicine before using.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.

Discard unused medicine after 24 hours at room temperature.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to latex.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

It is very important that you follow your doctor's instructions for all blood tests.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Wash your hands often and avoid close contact with people with infections such as colds and flu.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Call your doctor right away if you notice slow or shallow breathing.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • bone pain
  • nosebleeds
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • kidney problems
  • muscle pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • pain in the abdomen
  • back pain
  • bleeding or bruising
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • feeling of swelling of the body
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fever or chills
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • shortness of breath
  • stomach pain
  • dark, tarry stool
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • urinating less often
  • blood in urine
  • dark urine

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.