The blood consists of three types of blood cells; white blood cells help the body fight infection, red blood cells carry oxygen and remove waste products and platelets help blood to clot. White blood cells are further divided into five different groups based on the size, function and look of the cells. These include lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils, eosinophils and neutrophils. Diseases and treatments such as chemotherapy damage white blood cells leaving the body vulnerable to life-threatening infections.
Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor
Granulocyte is a general term for white blood cells that contain small granules that carry important proteins. Basophils, eosinophils and neutrophils all belong to this group which function to fight bacterial infections, according to MedLine Plus. As a result, conditions destroying or preventing the production of new granulocytes can result in frequent and severe infections.
The bone marrow continually produces new blood cells to replace old ones. Medications classified as granulocyte colony stimulating factors stimulate the bone marrow to produce this type of white blood cell and promotes their ability to function, as described by Chemocare.com.
Filgrastim
Filgrastim, classified as a human granulocyte colony stimulating factor, stimulates the production, maturation and activation of neutrophils. Available since 1991, doctors prescribe filgrastim to treat cancer patients with bone marrow damage caused by chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Filgrastim can also treat victims accidentally exposed to high doses of radiation.
Filgrastim is safe for most adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but should not be taken by those with a hypersensitivity to E.coli derived proteins. Side effects of filgrastim include fever, diarrhea, skin rash, weakness and bone pain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report filgrastim has successfully treated patients reducing the number of infections and shortening hospital stays.
Pegfilgrastim
Pegfilgrastim, also a granulocyte colony stimulating factor, stimulates the production and release of new neutrophils. This medication is similar to filgrastim except that it contains a substance called polyethylene glycol---PEG that allows the medication to remain active in the body longer before breaking down, as described by Chemocare.com.
Pegfilgrastim should not be taken by patients sensitive to filgrastim or to E. coli derived proteins. Side effects include bone pain, tenderness at the site of injection and a temporary elevation of lactate dehydrogenase. In rare cases pegfilgrastim was associated with a ruptured spleen or the onset of acute respiratory distress, a life-threatening emergency causing rapid or troubled breathing, according to Neulasta.com.
