This medicine is an amino acid used for decreasing the incidence of infection in certain cancer patients undergoing myelosuppressive cancer treatments.
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. An extra patient leaflet is available with this medicine. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information. This medicine is usually given as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. IF YOU WILL BE USING THIS MEDICINE AT HOME, a health care provider will teach you how to use it. Be sure you understand how to use this medicine. Follow the procedures you are taught when you use a dose. Contact your health care provider if you have any questions. DO NOT SHAKE this medicine. DO NOT USE this medicine if it contains particles, is cloudy or discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged. STORE THIS MEDICINE in the refrigerator, between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C), in the original carton. Do not freeze. If accidentally frozen, allow the medicine to thaw in the refrigerator. If frozen more than once, the medicine should be thrown away. If this medicine is left at room temperature for more than 48 hours, it should be discarded. Protect from light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE of this medicine, contact your doctor right away.
Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking lithium. DO NOT START OR STOP any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, including other blood problems (eg, sickle cell anemia), bone marrow leukemia, spleen problems, lung or breathing problems, a blood or tissue infection; allergies; pregnancy; or breast-feeding. Tell your doctor if you are or will be undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Use of this medicine in INFANTS, CHILDREN, or SMALLER ADOLESCENTS weighing less than 100 pounds (45 kilograms) is not recommended. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of giving this medicine to your child. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using this medicine.
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include bone or joint pain; constipation; or muscle pain. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience fast breathing; fever; left-sided shoulder tip pain; left-sided upper stomach pain; a lump, swelling, or bruising at the injection site; severe or persistent bone, chest, joint, or stomach pain; shortness of breath; swelling of the hands, feet, arms, or legs; or wheezing. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; dizziness; fast heartbeat; increased sweating; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; or unusual hoarseness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Carry an identification card at all times that says you take this medicine. DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Dispose of properly after use. Ask your health care provider how to dispose of these materials after use. Follow all local rules for disposal. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.