Pegasta
Pegasta Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Pegasta is a brand name. Its generic name is Pegfilgrastim.
Introduction:
Pegasta is a recombinant, long-acting form of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (GCSF) that is indicated for the reduction in the duration of severe neutropenia in patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving myelosuppressive anticancer drugs associated with a clinically significant incidence of febrile neutropenia.Uses for:
Pegasta is used to stimulate the production of white blood cells to prevent infections during chemotherapy or radiation treatment. It is also used to manage the side effects of high-dose chemotherapy prior to blood and bone marrow transplantation.Mechanism of Action:
Pegasta is a G-CSF receptor agonist, acting by binding to specific cell-surface receptor proteins on hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells in the bone marrow. This binding leads to increased production of neutrophils, which are important in protection against disease-causing bacteria and other pathogens.How Long Does It Take to Work?:
The effects of pegfilgrastim may be observed within hours of injection. The drug typically begins to increase neutrophil counts in 3-4 days, with maximal effect by 7 days.Absorption:
Pegasta is a long-acting drug and is slowly released over time. It is absorbed slowly through the gastrointestinal mucosa.Route of Elimination:
Pegasta is eliminated primarily through the kidneys, with a half-life of approximately 18-37 hours.Dosage:
The recommended dose of pegfilgrastim for adult patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy is a 6 mg single dose, given as a subcutaneous injection no more than 24 hours after completion of chemotherapy.Administration:
Pegasta should be administered as a single, subcutaneous injection no more than 24 hours after completion of chemotherapy.Side Effect:
The most common side effects of pegfilgrastim include bone pain, headache, joint pain, musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and nausea. Other possible side effects may include rash, Edema, Injection site reactions, Hypertension, and increased risk of infection.Toxicity:
The reported incidence of serious adverse reactions, including severe allergic reactions, was low. The overall incidence of severe allergic reactions in clinical trials was 0.3%.Precaution:
Pegasta should be administered with caution to patients with known hypersensitivities to granulocyte-colony stimulating factors or to any of the inactive ingredients in the formulation. Pegasta should also be administered with caution to patients with neutropenia due to other underlying causes.Interaction:
Pegasta is not known to interact with other drugs. However, patients receiving concomitant drugs that have a hemostatic effect should be monitored for signs of bleeding or other adverse reactions.Disease Interaction:
Pegasta should not be used in patients with neutropenia due to an underlying disease, such as congenital neutropenia, myelodysplastic syndrome, or chronic myeloid leukemia.Drug Interaction:
Pegasta should not be used with concomitant drugs that have a hemostatic effect.Food Interactions:
No food interactions have been reported with pegfilgrastim.Pregnancy Use:
Pegasta should not be used in pregnant women due to potential risks to the fetus.Lactation Use:
The safety and efficacy of pegfilgrastim in lactating women has not been established, and it is not recommended for use in breastfeeding mothers.Acute Overdose:
No acute overdoses of pegfilgrastim have been reported.Contraindication:
Pegasta is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivities to granulocyte-colony stimulating factors or to any of the inactive ingredients in the formulation.Use Direction:
Pegasta should be administered as a single, subcutaneous injection no more than 24 hours after completion of chemotherapy.Storage Condition:
Pegasta should be stored at room temperature (59-86°F). It should be protected from heat and light and should not be frozen.Volume of Distribution:
The apparent volume of distribution of pegfilgrastim following subcutaneous administration is approximately 4 liters.Half Life:
The terminal half-life of pegfilgrastim is approximately 18-37 hours.Clearance:
The clearance of pegfilgrastim is approximately 7.3 mL/min/kg.Here you find in details version of Pegasta
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Pegasta
What is Pegasta?
Pegasta is a long-acting form of the drug granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). It is a peptide that stimulates bone marrow to produce neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in fighting infection.
What is Pegasta used for?
Pegasta is used to reduce the risk of infection due to severe neutropenia (low levels of certain white blood cells) in people with certain types of cancer (such as non-myeloid leukemia and multiple myeloma) who are receiving chemotherapy or radiation.
How does Pegasta work?
Pegasta works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce granulocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. It helps to increase the number of granulocytes, which can help reduce the risk of infection due to decreased levels of neutrophils.
What are the side effects of Pegasta?
Common side effects of Pegasta include headache, muscle pain, bone pain, dizziness, and feeling tired. More serious side effects may include swelling of the feet, ankles, or hands, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fever.
How long does Pegasta stay in the body?
Pegasta is a long-acting drug that stays in the body for up to 21 days.
What should I avoid while taking Pegasta?
You should avoid contact with individuals who have infectious diseases and live or atten vaccinated animals. You should also avoid taking any ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAID medications while taking Pegasta.
Is Pegasta safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Pegasta has not been adequately studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before starting Pegasta.
How is Pegasta administered?
Pegasta is typically administered as a single injection under the skin once every 21 days. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and administration schedule for you.
How long does it take for Pegasta to start working?
Pegasta usually begins to work within two days of administration, but it may take up to two weeks to reach its full effect.
What is the most common side effect of Pegasta?
The most common side effect of Pegasta is headache, occurring in up to 30% of patients.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Pegasta?
If you miss a dose of Pegasta, call your doctor right away. Your doctor may advise you to take the missed dose as soon as possible, or to wait until your next scheduled dose.
Can I take other medications while taking Pegasta?
You may be able to take other medications while taking Pegasta, but discuss all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements) with your doctor before starting them.
Is Pegasta covered by insurance?
Pegasta may be covered by some insurance plans. Check with your insurance provider to find out if Pegasta is covered and what your out-of-pocket costs may be.
Can Pegasta help with other medical conditions?
Pegasta is approved only to reduce the risk of infection due to severe neutropenia in people with certain types of cancer receiving chemotherapy or radiation. It is not approved to treat any other medical condition.
What should I do if I experience any severe side effects from Pegasta?
If you experience any severe side effects, such as swelling of the feet, ankles, or hands; chest pain; shortness of breath; or fever, contact your doctor immediately.
Is Pegasta a prescription medication?
Yes, Pegasta is a prescription medication.
Does Pegasta have any interactions with other medications?
Yes, Pegasta may interact with other medications. Talk to your doctor about all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements) that you are taking before starting Pegasta.
Can Pegasta be taken with food?
Pegasta should be taken on an empty stomach. Avoid taking it with alcohol or a high-fat meal.
Can I take aspirin or ibuprofen while taking Pegasta?
No, you should not take any ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAID medications while taking Pegasta.
Does Pegasta have any generic versions?
Yes, there is a generic version of Pegasta available. Talk to your doctor to see if generic Pegasta is right for you.
Is Pegasta cancerous?
No, Pegasta is not cancerous. It is a drug that is used to reduce the risk of infection due to decreased levels of neutrophils in people with certain types of cancer receiving chemotherapy or radiation.
Is Pegasta bad for your liver?
There is no evidence that Pegasta is bad for your liver. However, if you notice any changes in your liver function while taking Pegasta, call your doctor.
Can I exercise while taking Pegasta?
Yes, you can exercise while taking Pegasta. However, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and listen to your body. If you are feeling too tired or weak to exercise, it is best to take a rest day.
Does Pegasta affect fertility?
There is no evidence that Pegasta affects fertility. However, it is always advisable that women who are trying to conceive talk to their doctor before taking any medication.
How long does it take for Pegasta to work?
Pegasta usually begins to work within two days of administration, but it may take up to two weeks to reach its full effect.
Can Pegasta be used with radiation therapy?
Yes, Pegasta can be used in conjunction with radiation therapy to reduce the risk of infection due to decreased levels of neutrophils in people with certain types of cancer.
Can Pegasta be used in children?
Pegasta has only been approved for use in adults, so it should not be given to children.
Can Pegasta be used in combination with other medications?
Yes, Pegasta can be used in combination with other medications to reduce the risk of infection due to neutropenia caused by certain treatments for cancer.
How quickly does Pegasta start working?
Pegasta usually begins to work within two days of administration, but it may take up to two weeks to reach its full effect.
What are the long-term effects of Pegasta?
The long-term effects of Pegasta have not been studied, so it is important to discuss the risks and potential side effects with your doctor before starting treatment.
Can I breastfeed while taking Pegasta?
Pegasta has not been adequately studied in breastfeeding women. Talk to your doctor before taking Pegasta if you are breastfeeding.
Is there an age limit for taking Pegasta?
Pegasta has only been approved for use in adults. It should not be given to children.
Can Pegasta cause a fever?
Yes, Pegasta can cause a fever, which is a rare but serious side effect. If you experience a fever while taking Pegasta, call your doctor right away.
Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Pegasta?
You should avoid taking Pegasta with alcohol or a high-fat meal. You should also be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking Pegasta.
Can Pegasta cause allergic reactions?
Yes, Pegasta can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness.