Filgrastim Injections

Filgrastim Injections Specification

Ingredients
Filgrastim, sodium, acetic acid, polysorbate 80, sorbitol, water for injection

Application
Intravenous or subcutaneous injection for stimulating neutrophil production

Temperature Needed For Fermentation
Typically 37C (for E. coli expression system)

Physical Color/Texture
Clear, colorless solution

Fermentation Smell
Odorless

Storage Instructions
Store at 2C to 8C. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date (unopened)

Contraindications
Known hypersensitivity to filgrastim or any component of the formulation

Protein Structure
Single polypeptide chain of 175 amino acids

Brand Examples
Filgrastim is available under brands such as Neupogen, Grafeel, Zarzio, Nivestim, etc.

Regulatory Classification
Biologic (biopharmaceutical)

Administration Route
Subcutaneous (preferred) or intravenous injection

Side Effects
Bone pain, musculoskeletal pain, injection site reaction, headache, splenomegaly

Molecular Weight
Approx. 18.8 kDa

Mode of Action
Stimulates proliferation, differentiation, and activation of neutrophil progenitor cells in the bone marrow

Prescription Status
Prescription only (Rx)

About Filgrastim Injections

Filgrastim:-

Filgrastim is used to decrease the chance of infection in people who have certain types of cancer and are receiving chemotherapy medications that may decrease the number of neutrophils (a type of blood cell needed to fight infection), in people who are undergoing bone marrow transplants, and in people who have severe chronic neutropenia (condition in which there are a low number of neutrophils in the blood). Filgrastim is also used to prepare the blood for leukapheresis (a treatment in which certain blood cells are removed from the body and then returned to the body following chemotherapy). Filgrastim is in a class of medications called colony-stimulating factors. It works by helping the body make more neutrophils.

Filgrastim comes as a solution (liquid) to inject under the skin or into a vein. It is usually given once a day, but may be given twice a day when it is used to treat severe chronic neutropenia. The length of your treatment depends on the condition that you have and how well your body responds to the medication. If you are using filgrastim to decrease the risk of infection during chemotherapy, you will receive your first dose of filgrastim at least 24 hours after you receive a dose of chemotherapy, and will continue to receive the medication every day for up to 2 weeks. If you are using filgrastim to decrease the risk of infection during a bone marrow transplant, you will receive the medication at least 24 hours after you receive chemotherapy and at least 24 hours after the bone marrow is infused. If you are using filgrastim to prepare your blood for leukapheresis, you will receive your first dose of filgrastim at least 4 days before the first leukapheresis and will continue to receive the medication until the last leukapheresis. If you are using filgrastim to treat severe chronic neutropenia, you may need to use the medication for a long period of time.

How Filgrastim Injections Work

Filgrastim stimulates the proliferation, differentiation, and activation of neutrophil precursor cells in the bone marrow. These mechanisms help restore neutrophil counts, reducing the risk of infections in patients who have undergone chemotherapy or have conditions resulting in low neutrophil levels. Regular administration, according to your doctors guidance, ensures optimal effectiveness.

Administration and Usage Guidelines

Filgrastim injections are administered either subcutaneously (preferred route) or intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency are determined by your physician based on your specific condition and blood test results. Only use the medicine if it appears as a clear, colorless solution. Never attempt self-injection unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider.

Safe Handling and Storage

For best results and safety, store filgrastim injections at 2C to 8C. Avoid freezing and keep the product away from direct light. Always check the expiration date before use and keep the product in its original packaging until ready for administration. Unopened vials or syringes maintain effectiveness for up to 24 months from the manufacturing date.

FAQs of Filgrastim Injections:

Q: What is filgrastim and which brands are available in India?

A: Filgrastim is a biopharmaceutical protein used to stimulate white blood cell (neutrophil) production, commonly prescribed for patients with neutropenia. In India, it is marketed under various brands such as Neupogen, Grafeel, Zarzio, and Nivestim.

Q: How should filgrastim injections be administered and by whom?

A: Filgrastim is typically given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) or intravenous injection. Administration should be performed by a trained healthcare professional, unless patients are specifically taught and authorized by their doctor to self-administer at home.

Q: What are the main benefits of using filgrastim injections?

A: The primary benefit of filgrastim is the rapid increase in neutrophil levels, helping to protect patients from infections, particularly those undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from certain blood disorders.

Q: When should filgrastim not be used?

A: Filgrastim is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to filgrastim or any of its formulation components. Always discuss your medical history and allergies with your doctor before starting treatment.

Q: What side effects can be expected with filgrastim use?

A: Common side effects include bone pain, injection site reactions, musculoskeletal pain, headache, and, rarely, splenomegaly. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience any persistent or unusual symptoms during treatment.

Q: How should filgrastim injections be stored?

A: Keep filgrastim refrigerated between 2C and 8C. For optimal preservation, do not freeze, and protect the vials from direct light. Always store in the original container until use and check the expiration date before administering.

Q: What is the shelf life of unopened filgrastim injections?

A: Unopened filgrastim injections have a shelf life of 24 months from the manufacturing date, provided they are stored under the recommended refrigerated conditions.

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