Filgrast

Filgrast Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Filgrast is a brand name. Its generic name is Filgrastim.

Filgrast

Filgrast is a biosynthetic form of human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). It is used to treat a variety of chronic and acute hematologic conditions, including malignancies, myelodysplastic syndromes, and immunodeficiencies. In malignancies, it is used to increase blood cell counts in patients undergoing chemotherapy and to prevent neutropenia (low levels of neutrophils). Filgrast is also used to increase the number of stem cells collected from the patient's bone marrow for autologous transplantation.

Uses

Filgrast is used to treat neutropenia caused by a variety of conditions, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and some immunologic disorders. It is also used to increase the number of stem cells collected from the bone marrow for autologous transplantation, and to reduce the risk of infection in patients with HIV/AIDS.

Mechanism of Action

Filgrast stimulates the production of neutrophils (white blood cells) in the bone marrow. It binds to the membrane-bound receptor G-CSFR, which activates the JAK/STAT pathway to induce the production of neutrophils. It also promotes the release of neutrophils from the bone marrow into the bloodstream.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The effects of filgrastim can be seen within 24-48 hours, but it can take up to 2 weeks for the full effects of the drug to be seen. The peak effects of the drug occur 1-2 days after administration.

Absorption

Filgrast is almost completely absorbed after subcutaneous or intramuscular administration. Peak concentrations are reached in 2-4 hours.

Route of Elimination

Filgrast is primarily eliminated by the kidneys. Approximately 70-80% of the drug is excreted unchanged in the urine.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of filgrastim is 5 to 10 mcg per kilogram of body weight administered once a day. The dose can be adjusted up to a maximum of 30 mcg per kilogram depending on the patient’s response. The dosage should be given 1-2 days before chemotherapy or radiation therapy and continued until the patient’s blood cell count returns to normal.

Administration

Filgrast can be administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. The injection should be given in the upper arm, thigh, abdomen, or buttocks.

Side Effect

Common side effects of filgrastim include nausea, vomiting, bone pain, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue. Rare but serious side effects include bone marrow suppression, allergic reactions, and severe respiratory disorders.

Toxicity

Filgrast is not known to be toxic, however long-term use of high doses of the drug can lead to bone marrow suppression.

Precaution

Filgrast should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing hematologic disorders or in those with an increased risk of bleeding. It should not be used in patients with genetic defects in the interleukin-3 (IL-3) receptor alpha chain, and it should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment.

Interaction

There are no known drug or disease interactions with filgrastim.

Food Interactions

No food interactions with filgrastim are known.

Pregnancy Use

Filgrast should be used during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary and only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Lactation Use

Filgrast is not known to be excreted in breast milk and should not affect the nursing infant.

Acute Overdose

There is no specific antidote for an overdose of filgrastim and treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement may be necessary.

Contraindication

Filgrast is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to recombinant G-CSF or any of the components of the product.

Use Direction

Filgrast should be administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. The injection should be given in the upper arm, thigh, abdomen, or buttocks.

Storage Condition

Filgrast should be stored at temperatures between 20° and 25°C. It should be protected from light and kept away from heat and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

After intravenous administration, the volume of distribution of filgrastim is approximately 3.7 liters per kilogram.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of filgrastim is approximately 3 hours.

Clearance

The total body clearance of filgrastim is approximately 26 liters per hour per kilogram.

Here you find in details version of Filgrast

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Filgrast

What is Filgrast?

Filgrast is an injectable biologic prescription medicine used to reduce the chance of infection in people with certain types of cancer and to reduce the risk of infection in people with Chronic Granulomatous Disease.

What is the active ingredient in Filgrast?

The active ingredient in Filgrast is recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, which is a recombinant DNA-derived human protein.

How does Filgrast work?

Filgrast helps the body to produce more neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell that fights infection. This helps to reduce the chance of infection in people with cancer or Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD).

What are some of the side effects of Filgrast?

The most common side effects of Filgrast include bone pain, injection site reactions, headache, and fatigue. Tell your doctor if you have any side effects.

How is Filgrast given?

Filgrast is given as a single injection under your skin. Your doctor will advise when and how to use it.

Who should not take Filgrast?

Do not take Filgrast if you are allergic to it, had a severe allergic or hypersensitivity reaction after receiving filgrastim in the past, or suffered from a splenic rupture before.

What is Filgrast used for?

Filgrast is used to reduce the chance of infection in people with certain types of cancer and to reduce the risk of infection in people with Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD).

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Filgrast?

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver or kidney disease, or have any allergies.

What if I forget a dose of Filgrast?

If you miss a dose of Filgrast, contact your healthcare provider for advice on when to take your next dose.

Can Filgrast be used during pregnancy?

Filgrast should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Talk to your doctor about any potential risks to your pregnancy.

Who should not take Filgrast?

Do not take Filgrast if you are allergic to it, had a severe allergic or hypersensitivity reaction after receiving filgrastim in the past, or suffered from a splenic rupture before.

What is the recommended dose of Filgrast?

The recommended dose of Filgrast is determined by your healthcare provider and depends on your age, body weight, and medical condition.

Are there any drug interactions with Filgrast?

Yes, Filgrast may interact with other medications such as anticoagulants, corticosteroids, and other immunosuppressants. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential drug interactions.

Does Filgrast have any side effects?

The most common side effects of Filgrast include bone pain, injection site reactions, headache, and fatigue. Tell your doctor if you have any side effects.

Can children take Filgrast?

Yes, Filgrast is approved for use in children two years of age and older. Talk to your doctor to determine if Filgrast is right for your child.

What should I do if I experience any side effects from Filgrast?

If you experience any side effects from Filgrast, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

Can I take Filgrast if I'm breastfeeding?

Filgrast should not be taken while breastfeeding due to the risk of side effects in the infant. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Can Filgrast be used for chronic granulomatous disease?

Yes, Filgrast is used to reduce the risk of infection in people with Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD).

Are there any risks associated with taking Filgrast?

Yes, there is a risk of serious side effects associated with taking Filgrast, such as splenic rupture. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider for more information.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Filgrast?

If you miss a dose of Filgrast, contact your healthcare provider for advice on when to take your next dose.

What should I avoid while taking Filgrast?

You should avoid activities that may put you at risk of infection, such as contact sports or swimming in public pools.

Can I take other medications with Filgrast?

You should tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Filgrast.

Can I drive or operate machinery while taking Filgrast?

You should avoid driving or operating machinery while taking Filgrast, as it may cause side effects such as dizziness or fatigue.

What should I do if I experience any signs of infection while taking Filgrast?

If you experience any signs of infection while taking Filgrast, such as fever, chills, or sore throat, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

How long should I take Filgrast?

The length of treatment with Filgrast will depend on your individual needs and should be determined by your doctor.

Are there alternative treatments for reducing infection risk?

Yes, other treatments such as antibiotics or immune-modulating drugs may be used to reduce infection risk.

How should I store Filgrast?

Filgrast should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C – 8°C (36°F – 46°F). Keep out of reach of children and away from heat and light.

Can I take Filgrast if I have liver or kidney disease?

Talk to your doctor before taking Filgrast if you have liver or kidney disease. Your doctor may adjust your dose or recommend an alternative treatment.

Will Filgrast affect my fertility?

Filgrast has been known to affect fertility in animal studies. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about a possible effect on your fertility.

Should I avoid certain activities while taking Filgrast?

You should avoid contact sports and activities that may put you at risk of infection while taking Filgrast.

What other drugs are similar to Filgrast?

Other drugs similar to Filgrast include pegfilgrastim and biosimilars. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the differences between these drugs.

Can Filgrast be used to treat cancer?

No, Filgrast is used to reduce the chance of infection in people with certain types of cancer and to reduce the risk of infection in people with Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD).

What if I overdose on Filgrast?

If you have overdosed on Filgrast, contact your healthcare provider or poison control center right away.

Are there any food restrictions while taking Filgrast?

No, there are no food restrictions while taking Filgrast.

How long does Filgrast stay in the body?

Filgrast typically stays in the body for about 24 hours.

Is there a generic version of Filgrast available?

Yes, there is a generic version of Filgrast available.

What happens if I take too much Filgrast?

If you take too much Filgrast, contact your doctor or healthcare provider right away.

Can Filgrast be used to reduce the risk of infection in the elderly?

Yes, Filgrast can be used to reduce the risk of infection in the elderly.

Can I use Filgrast if I'm allergic to other drugs?

You should tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you may have in order to determine if Filgrast is safe for you to use.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Filgrast?

It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Filgrast. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Can Filgrast cause weight gain?

Weight gain has been reported in people taking Filgrast; however, it is not known if this is due to the drug itself or to other factors such as diet or lifestyle changes.

What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to Filgrast?

If you have an allergic reaction to Filgrast, stop taking it and contact your doctor or healthcare provider right away.

Is Filgrast covered by insurance?

Filgrast may be covered by some insurance plans. Check with your insurance provider to see if Filgrast is covered.

When will I start to notice an effect from taking Filgrast?

The effect of Filgrast will depend on your individual needs and should be determined by your doctor. Talk to your doctor for more information.