Pegfilgrastim
- What is it for
Pegfilgrastim is a medicine used to reduce your chance of getting an infection after chemotherapy. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce a particular kind of white blood cell that helps your body fight infection.
Pegfilgrastim
- Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications
What side effects can
Pegfilgrastim
cause?
- Mild to moderate bone and/or muscle pain
May be relieved by taking paracetamol. - Flu-like syndrome e.g. fever, chills, headache, body aches
Usually occurs at start of treatment. Maintain hydration, drink lots of fluids and take paracetamol if necessary. - Headache
- Mild skin rash may occur
More common in patients with history of sensitive skin. - Pain and redness at injection site
Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Fever of 38°C or higher
- Sores in the mouth and throat
- Chest pain and rapid irregular heartbeat
- Severe bone and/or muscle pain
- Allergic reaction e.g. rash, itch, swelling, dizziness and breathing difficulties
Before taking
Pegfilgrastim
, what precautions must I follow?
- Inform your doctor if you:
- Plan to get or suspect that you are pregnant
- Intend to breastfeed
Pegfilgrastim
- Dosage and How to Use
How should
Pegfilgrastim
be used?
It is a single dose subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Pegfilgrastim should be administered at least 24 hours following your chemotherapy.
Before administration, ensure that the solution is clear and colourless, without any visible particles present. Avoid shaking the injection excessively.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of Pegfilgrastim, please contact your doctor immediately.
Pegfilgrastim
- Handling
How should I handle
Pegfilgrastim
safely?
Be careful to hold the syringe securely. Do not point the needle at anyone when uncapped.
Pegfilgrastim
- Storage
How should I store
Pegfilgrastim
?
How should I dispose of
Pegfilgrastim
safely?
Dispose the needle in a hard, puncture-proof container. Do not attempt to re-cap the needle after use. Do not throw the exposed needle directly into the dustbin or leave it lying about.