Uses of undefined

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor is used to treat chemotherapy-induced neutropenia (a condition caused by abnormally low levels of neutrophils), fever and infection. Chemotherapy often leads to a drop in white blood cell counts, making patients susceptible to infections. This drug mainly helps to mitigate this risk by stimulating the production of white blood cells, reducing the chances of infection and treatment interruptions.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Granulocyte colony stimulating factor can be administered subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (into a vein). The choice of administration method depends on the specific medical condition and treatment plan.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

If your WBC decreases, your body may not have enough cells to combat bacteria, putting you at risk of infection. Inform your physician if you have or had liver disease, kidney problems, sickle cell anemia or bone disease.

Precautions

Common side effects include fever, pain, rash, cough, shortness of breath, and nosebleeds. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or its component. 

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor are nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, decreased platelet, red blood cell count, diarrhea, unusual hair loss, troubled sleeping, inflammation of the lung, loss of appetite, constipation, pain when passing urine, muscle spasm, and nosebleeds. Some serious side effects include sudden signs of allergy (rash, itching, swelling of lips, tongue, wheezing), acute respiratory syndrome (cough, fever together with troubled breathing), enlargement of the spleen (pain in the upper left belly, pain below the left rib cage, pain at the tip of the shoulder), blood poisoning (combination of very cold, high heart rate, confusion, shortness of breath, sweaty skin, and extreme pain), capillary leak syndrome (puffiness, abdominal swelling, and feeling of fullness, difficulty breathing, and tiredness), and kidney injury (puffiness in face or ankles, blood in urine or brown-colored urine).

Word Of Advice

Individuals should monitor their temperature regularly, as Granulocyte colony stimulating factor can increase the risk of fever and infection. Notify your physician if a fever develops. Include a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support the immune system. If appetite is affected, consider consulting a nutritionist for dietary recommendations.

Frequently Asked Question

• When is Granulocyte colony stimulating factor used in medical treatment?
• Granulocyte colony stimulating factor is often used in medical treatment such as to boost white blood cell production in patients undergoing chemotherapy, which can cause a drop in white blood cell counts, for patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe chronic neutropenia or aplastic anemia. Before and after stem cell or bone marrow transplants to enhance white blood cell recovery.

• Can Granulocyte colony stimulating factor be used to enhance athletic performance or bodybuilding?
• Granulocyte colony stimulating factor for non-medical purposes, such as enhancing athletic performance or muscle growth, is both illegal and dangerous. It can lead to serious health risks and is prohibited by most sports organizations.

• Is Granulocyte colony stimulating factor a cure for blood disorders or cancer?
• Granulocyte colony stimulating factor is not a cure for blood disorders or cancer on its own. It is used as a supportive therapy to help manage specific medical conditions and improve the body's ability to produce white blood cells.

• Are there any side effects of Granulocyte colony stimulating factor?
• The common side effects of Granulocyte colony stimulating factor may include bone pain, muscle pain, fever, and injection site reactions. These side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with medication or other supportive measures.

• Can Granulocyte colony stimulating factor be used in cancer treatment?
• Granulocyte colony stimulating factor is often used in cancer treatment, particularly when chemotherapy is involved. It helps prevent or manage neutropenia, which is a common side effect of many chemotherapy drugs.