Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor

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

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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). Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor is also used to increase the number of stem cells collected from the patient's bone marrow for autologous transplantation.

Uses

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor is almost completely absorbed after subcutaneous or intramuscular administration. Peak concentrations are reached in 2-4 hours.

Route of Elimination

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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

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

Precaution

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor should be used during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary and only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Lactation Use

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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

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

Use Direction

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor should be administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. The injection should be given in the upper arm, thigh, abdomen, or buttocks.

Storage Condition

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor

What is Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

The active ingredient in Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor is recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, which is a recombinant DNA-derived human protein.

How does Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor work?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

How is Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor given?

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

Who should not take Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

Do not take Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor used for?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

If you miss a dose of Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor, contact your healthcare provider for advice on when to take your next dose.

Can Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor be used during pregnancy?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Talk to your doctor about any potential risks to your pregnancy.

Who should not take Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

Do not take Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

Are there any drug interactions with Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

Does Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor have any side effects?

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

Can children take Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

What should I do if I experience any side effects from Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

If you experience any side effects from Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

Can I take Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor if I'm breastfeeding?

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

Can Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor be used for chronic granulomatous disease?

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

Are there any risks associated with taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

What should I do if I miss a dose of Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

If you miss a dose of Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor, contact your healthcare provider for advice on when to take your next dose.

What should I avoid while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor.

Can I drive or operate machinery while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

What should I do if I experience any signs of infection while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

How long should I take Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

The length of treatment with Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor if I have liver or kidney disease?

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

Will Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor affect my fertility?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

You should avoid contact sports and activities that may put you at risk of infection while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor.

What other drugs are similar to Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

Other drugs similar to Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor include pegfilgrastim and biosimilars. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the differences between these drugs.

Can Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor be used to treat cancer?

No, Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

If you have overdosed on Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor, contact your healthcare provider or poison control center right away.

Are there any food restrictions while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

No, there are no food restrictions while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor.

How long does Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor stay in the body?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor typically stays in the body for about 24 hours.

Is there a generic version of Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor available?

Yes, there is a generic version of Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor available.

What happens if I take too much Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

If you take too much Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor, contact your doctor or healthcare provider right away.

Can Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor be used to reduce the risk of infection in the elderly?

Yes, Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor can be used to reduce the risk of infection in the elderly.

Can I use Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor if I'm allergic to other drugs?

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

Can I drink alcohol while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Can Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor cause weight gain?

Weight gain has been reported in people taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor; 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 Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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

Is Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor covered by insurance?

Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor may be covered by some insurance plans. Check with your insurance provider to see if Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor is covered.

When will I start to notice an effect from taking Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor?

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