Filgrastim (G-CSF, Neupogen")
(fil-GRA-stim)
Definition | How to take | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Dosage | Contact us
What is filgrastim or G-CSF?
Filgrastim or G-CSF is a medication that is used in some patients to try to stimulate certain blood cells (white blood cells) to enter the circulation faster after being given chemotherapy. This decreases the time that you are without certain blood cells used to fight infections. It is also sometimes used in combination with other medicines like ganciclovir and Septra" that can cause blood counts to decrease.
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How to take this medication
- This medicine is either infused through your central line catheter or given as a subcutaneous injection.
- You or a family member will be taught how to administer this medication. Keep the syringes, needles and supplies in a safe place out of reach of children and pets.
- Filgrastim should be kept in the original container in the refrigerator.
- This medication is frequently started 24 hours after chemotherapy is completed and continued until the neutrophils (part of the white blood cells) in the blood reach a certain level.
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Special Instructions
- Do not shake the vial. This may cause the drug to be less effective.
- Store this medication in the refrigerator.
- The dose should be given at approximately the same time each day.
- Once filgrastim is discontinued, you can expect the ANC (absolute neutrophil count) or neutrophil count to decrease by approximately 50 percent within one to two days.
- Blood counts will be monitored several times a week to determine the length of therapy.
- If too much medicine is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
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If a dose is missed
If you miss a dose of this medication, give it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the regular dosing schedule. Do not give a double dose to catch up.
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Side effects
Contact your child's doctor if symptoms persist or become bothersome:
- Bone pain, especially in the lower back, hip and breast bone
- Lower back pain
- Hip pain
- Headache
- Fluid retention
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Warning signs
Call your child's doctor immediately if your child develops:
- Severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Unusual or easy bruising or bleeding
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain and heart racing
- Rash
- Fever
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Dosage forms available
Injectable: 300 mcg per 1 ml and 480 mcg per 1.6 ml
Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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PEP 5045 V 8/04
Rev. 9/05, 5/07, 9/07
