G-CSF is usually used to stimulate the bone marrow to produce a specific type of white blood cell known as neutrophils.
Neutrophils are needed to fight off bacterial infections. G-CSF is used in patients to prevent or treat low neutrophil counts
that can be caused by the disease itself, by opportunistic infections (eg. MAC) or by antiviral agents (eg. zidovudine,
ganciclovir). G-CSF may allow you to continue to take and receive the benefits of your drugs for a longer period of time, and can reduce the chance of acquiring severe bacterial infections.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
G-CSF is inactivated by gastric juices and is therefore never given orally. The drug may be self-administered by
subcutaneous injection (the layer of tissue just under the skin). It may also be given intravenously.
Be sure to dispose of the used syringe and medication vial in a puncture proof disposable container after injecting the
medication. AVOID SHAKING VIGOROUSLY. Always check the expiry date of the medication before use.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose ?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If you remember your missed dose close to the time for your next dose,
do not double your dose. Continue with your regular dosing schedule. Mark down any missed doses, and call your
physician or pharmacist if you find you have missed more than a few doses, or if you have difficulty taking G-CSF.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause? What should you do about them.
G-CSF is generally well tolerated. The most common unwanted effects are mild to moderate bone pain (often located in
the lower back), headache, and muscle pain. Some of these side-effects can be treated with or prevented by
acetaminophen (Tylenol®). Pain and redness at the site of injection can be reduced by alternating injection sites (eg. upper thighs, abdomen above and below the waist, back of upper arm).
Rarely, after the first dose of G-CSF, an allergic reaction may occur. Breathing difficulties, decreased blood pressure,
swelling of the tongue and airway, and rash and itchiness can occur. The first dose of G-CSF should be given to you by a nurse so that you can be watched for this reaction.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR REGULAR DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug?
Drugs that decrease white blood cell production can counteract the benefits of G-CSF (eg. chemotherapy, zidovudine
(AZT), ganciclovir). It is important that your physician or pharmacist knows about other drugs you are taking, so that
your doseage can be adjusted or alternative management plans can be made if necessary.
The safety of G-CSF has not been established during pregnancy or breast feeding. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
How should this medication be STORED ?
G-CSF is supplied as a clear colourless liquid packaged in individual vials. The solution should be stored in the
refrigerator between 2-8 C. Do not allow the product to freeze. Do not shake the vial prior to injection. Allow the product to
warm to room temperature prior to injection. Discard any medication remaining out of the fridge for > 24 hours. Inspect
the vial of solution visually for any particles and do not use if particles are seen or the solution is discolored. Once the vial has been punctured, discard any unused medication.
Insulated kits with needles, swabs, and instructions for use are available from the manufacturer.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR
PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________. Please ask for ____________________.
