Pegfilgrastim

Uses

Pegfilgrastim is used to prevent infections following chemotherapy.

How it Works

How Pegfilgrastim works Pegfilgrastim is a growth factor that stimulates the bone marrow to produce white blood cells. These cells protect the body against infections.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Pegfilgrastim include joint pain, headache, muscle pain, back pain, injection site pain, hair loss, fever, diarrhea, skeletal pain, limb pain, musculoskeletal (bone, muscle, or joint) pain, and neck pain.

Expert Advice

Pegfilgrastim reduces the risk of infection in individuals undergoing chemotherapy.
It is typically administered as a daily injection into the tissue just beneath the skin or directly into a vein.
You will generally receive your first dose at least 24 hours after your chemotherapy or bone marrow transplant.
Store Pegfilgrastim in the refrigerator, protect it from light, and do not shake it.
For a more comfortable injection, allow the syringe to reach room temperature by leaving it out for 30 minutes before use.
Pain or redness at the injection site is common.
Inform your doctor if you notice a lump, swelling, or bruising that persists.
Exercise caution while driving or performing tasks that require concentration, as Pegfilgrastim may cause dizziness.
Your doctor may conduct regular tests to monitor your blood cell counts and bone density levels during treatment with this medication.
Discontinue Pegfilgrastim and notify your doctor if you experience fever, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, or difficulty breathing.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

How does pegfilgrastim function in the body?

Pegfilgrastim acts on hematopoietic cells in the bone marrow to stimulate the production of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell essential for fighting infections.

What is Pegfilgrastim and how is it administered?

Pegfilgrastim is a colony stimulating factor medication that reduces the risk of infections and chemotherapy-related side effects, but it does not treat cancer directly. It is administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin) 24 hours after chemotherapy, either by a healthcare professional or by the patient at home after proper training.

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