Zarxio

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

Zarxio

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

Uses

Zarxio 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

Zarxio 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

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

Route of Elimination

Zarxio 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

Zarxio 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

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

Precaution

Zarxio 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

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

Lactation Use

Zarxio 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

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

Use Direction

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

Storage Condition

Zarxio 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 Zarxio

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Zarxio

What is Zarxio?

Zarxio 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 Zarxio?

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

How does Zarxio work?

Zarxio 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 Zarxio?

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

How is Zarxio given?

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

Who should not take Zarxio?

Do not take Zarxio 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 Zarxio used for?

Zarxio 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 Zarxio?

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 Zarxio?

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

Can Zarxio be used during pregnancy?

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

Who should not take Zarxio?

Do not take Zarxio 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 Zarxio?

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

Are there any drug interactions with Zarxio?

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

Does Zarxio have any side effects?

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

Can children take Zarxio?

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

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

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

Can I take Zarxio if I'm breastfeeding?

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

Can Zarxio be used for chronic granulomatous disease?

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

Are there any risks associated with taking Zarxio?

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

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

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

What should I avoid while taking Zarxio?

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 Zarxio?

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 Zarxio.

Can I drive or operate machinery while taking Zarxio?

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

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

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

How long should I take Zarxio?

The length of treatment with Zarxio 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 Zarxio?

Zarxio 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 Zarxio if I have liver or kidney disease?

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

Will Zarxio affect my fertility?

Zarxio 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 Zarxio?

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

What other drugs are similar to Zarxio?

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

Can Zarxio be used to treat cancer?

No, Zarxio 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 Zarxio?

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

Are there any food restrictions while taking Zarxio?

No, there are no food restrictions while taking Zarxio.

How long does Zarxio stay in the body?

Zarxio typically stays in the body for about 24 hours.

Is there a generic version of Zarxio available?

Yes, there is a generic version of Zarxio available.

What happens if I take too much Zarxio?

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

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

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

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

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

Can I drink alcohol while taking Zarxio?

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

Can Zarxio cause weight gain?

Weight gain has been reported in people taking Zarxio; 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 Zarxio?

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

Is Zarxio covered by insurance?

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

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

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