PEG-FILGRASTIM – A Comprehensive Guide
PEG-FILGRASTIM, manufactured by EMCURE, falls under the category of Uncategorised medicines. It is available in the form of an injection packed in 1 vial. The actual MRP of PEG-FILGRASTIM is Rs. 3797, but it is currently being offered at a discounted price of Rs. 3055 with a discount of 19.54%.
Active Ingredients:
PEG-FILGRASTIM’s active ingredient is pegfilgrastim, which is a form of filgrastim, a human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF).
Pharmacological Properties:
Pegfilgrastim acts by stimulating the production, maturation, and activation of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. It helps in reducing the incidence of infection in patients undergoing chemotherapy by boosting white blood cell counts.
Indications:
PEG-FILGRASTIM is indicated for reducing the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients receiving myelosuppressive anti-cancer drugs. It is also used to increase the survival of infection after myelosuppressive therapy in patients with non-myeloid malignancies.
Contraindications:
PEG-FILGRASTIM is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious allergic reactions to filgrastim or pegfilgrastim. It should not be administered to patients with prolonged neutropenia.
Dosage:
The recommended dosage of PEG-FILGRASTIM is based on the patient’s body weight and the specific chemotherapy regimen being used. It is usually administered as a single subcutaneous injection once per chemotherapy cycle.
Side Effects:
Common side effects of PEG-FILGRASTIM include bone pain, musculoskeletal pain, headache, and fatigue. In rare cases, it may cause allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Drug Interactions:
There are limited reported drug interactions with PEG-FILGRASTIM. However, caution should be exercised when co-administering it with other myelosuppressive agents or chemotherapy drugs that can affect white blood cell counts.
Patient Counseling:
Patients receiving PEG-FILGRASTIM should be counseled on the proper administration technique and potential side effects. They should be advised to report any signs of infection or allergic reactions promptly.
Clinical Evidence:
Several clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of PEG-FILGRASTIM in reducing the incidence of febrile neutropenia and infection in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. It has been shown to be well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: How often should PEG-FILGRASTIM be administered?
A: PEG-FILGRASTIM is usually administered as a single subcutaneous injection once per chemotherapy cycle. The exact frequency may vary based on the specific chemotherapy regimen and the patient’s response.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of PEG-FILGRASTIM?
A: If you miss a dose of PEG-FILGRASTIM, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Q: Can PEG-FILGRASTIM be self-administered at home?
A: Some patients may be trained to self-administer PEG-FILGRASTIM at home, under the guidance of their healthcare provider. It is important to follow the correct injection technique to ensure safety and efficacy.
Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while taking PEG-FILGRASTIM?
A: There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with PEG-FILGRASTIM. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall health during chemotherapy.
Q: What are the signs of an allergic reaction to PEG-FILGRASTIM?
A: Signs of an allergic reaction to PEG-FILGRASTIM may include rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or severe dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Q: Can PEG-FILGRASTIM be used in children?
A: The safety and effectiveness of PEG-FILGRASTIM in pediatric patients have not been established. It is generally intended for use in adult patients undergoing chemotherapy.
This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on PEG-FILGRASTIM, including its active ingredients, pharmacological properties, indications, contraindications, dosage, side effects, drug interactions, patient counseling, clinical evidence, and frequently asked questions. For further queries, always consult your healthcare provider.
