This patient-friendly article is about chemotherapy drug, Filgrastim (Neupogen, Neulasta) which is used to treat neutropenia (a low number of white blood cells or neutrophils) often caused by chemotherapy. Known as a haemopoietic growth factor, it stimulates the bone marrow to increase white cell production, thus reducing neutropenia which can lead to infections and neutropenic scepsis which is very serious. Use of Filgrastim means that chemotherapy can be given in a more intense schedule. It is usually administered by injection or sometimes intravenously.
Side effects can include: (Yes, there are side-effects of the drug that is used to reduce side effects!) but they are unusual. They include the possibility of enlarged spleen and shortness of breath. Anyone with osteoporosis should have regular checks for bone density if taking this drug for long periods.
Go to: 10 ways to improve your chemotherapy success and reduce side-effects
Other articles that you may find interesting are:
- A diet for Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy overview
- A to Z Guide to Complementary Therapies
Go to: Return to the CANCERactive drug list