Pegfilgrastim (pegfilgrastim) — Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Safety

Drug class: Colony Stimulating Factor (CSF); Hematopoietic Agent

Overview

Pegfilgrastim is a medication used to help your body make more white blood cells, especially after chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can lower your white blood cell count, making you more likely to get infections. Pegfilgrastim helps reduce this risk by stimulating your bone marrow to produce more neutrophils, a type of white blood cell important for fighting infection. This medicine is given as a single injection under the skin, usually once per chemotherapy cycle. It is not used to treat existing infections, but to prevent infections from happening. Key points for patients: Pegfilgrastim is not a chemotherapy drug itself, but it helps support your immune system during cancer treatment. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and report any signs of infection or allergic reaction.

Therapeutic uses

  • Neutropenia prophylaxis in cancer patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy
  • Neutropenia prophylaxis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receiving induction or consolidation chemotherapy
  • Neutropenia prophylaxis in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT)

For related Pegfilgrastim guidance, compare Udenyca.

Common side effects

  • Bone pain
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Splenic rupture
  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome
  • Allergic reactions

Frequently Asked Questions about Pegfilgrastim

What is pegfilgrastim used for?

Pegfilgrastim is used to reduce the risk of infection in people receiving chemotherapy that lowers white blood cell counts. It helps the body make more neutrophils, a type of white blood cell.

How is pegfilgrastim given?

It is given as a single injection under the skin, usually once per chemotherapy cycle. Your healthcare provider may give the injection, or you may be trained to do it yourself.

What are the most common side effects?

The most common side effects are bone pain, muscle aches, headache, and mild redness or swelling at the injection site.

Can pegfilgrastim cause serious side effects?

Yes, serious side effects include splenic rupture, severe allergic reactions, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Is pegfilgrastim safe in children?

Pegfilgrastim can be used in children, but dosing is based on body weight. Safety and effectiveness should be discussed with your child's doctor.

Can I take pegfilgrastim with other medications?

Tell your doctor about all medicines you take. Avoid using other myeloid growth factors at the same time. Live vaccines should be avoided during neutropenia.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Contact your healthcare provider for instructions. Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed injection.

Educational information only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.