Low white blood cell counts, a condition known as neutropenia, can be a serious medical condition leading to chronic or fatal infections. White cell levels can reach low levels in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, as many chemotherapeutic drugs damage the bone marrow. Such individuals receiving chemotherapy are at risk for developing infections and are typically prescribed drugs to increase white cell numbers and lower their chances of infection.
Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor (G-CSF)
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a cytokine naturally produced in the body that can increase production of white cells by the bone marrow. The National Neutropenia Network explains that G-CSF is administered by injection and the dose and duration of treatment can vary. G-CSF is typically administered by injection just under the skin in the abdomen, upper arm and upper thigh. G-CSF may be self-administered. G-CSF injections are not usually painful, however, a stinging sensation is sometimes experienced. G-CSF treatment is expensive, with costs of up to $4,000 per month as of 2010. The National Neutropenia Network mentions that G-CSF related clinical trials may be available to neutropenia patients that could help to reduce treatment costs.
Neupogen
Neupogen is a synthetic, recombinant form of G-CSF produced by Amgen. Neupogen is used to increase white blood cell numbers and reduce incidence of infection. Neupogen is administered by injection on a daily basis until white cell numbers resolve to normal levels. Neupogen is usually well tolerated and has few reported side effects. Neupogen is produced by a process using E. coli bacteria and can result in allergic reactions. Neupogen should not be used by individuals with known allergies to other recombinant proteins produced in E. coli.
Leukine
Leukine is a recombinant form of G-CSF manufactured by Bayer. Leukine is a colorless liquid that is administered by injection under the skin. Michael H. Tirgan M.D. explains that Leukine is given to patients with a low white cell count on a daily basis until the white cell count resolves to normal levels. Leukine is also given to cancer patients receiving chemotherapy as a preventative measure to ensure white cell levels remain normal. Leukine is very safe, well tolerated and has few reported side effects. In cases of severe neutropenia, high and more frequent doses of Leukine may be administered. Leukine is produced using yeast and should not be administered to individuals with yeast allergies.
Neulasta
Neulasta is prescribed to reduce incidence of infection that may is associated with neutropenia in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Neulasta is administered as an injection under the skin. According to information provided by Neulasta.com, Neulasta is given only once per chemotherapy cycle. Neulasta should not be administered 14 days before or 24 hours after the start of chemotherapy treatments. Neulasta.com explains that the most dangerous side effects reported with Neulasta use are ruptured spleen and a severe lung problem known as acute respiratory distress syndrome. Individuals that have received Neulasta injections should report any signs of abdominal pain or respiratory problems to a physician immediately. A common mild side effect of Neulasta is bone pain.
