For increasing white blood cell count.
Brand Name(s): Leukine
Generic Name: Sargramostim
Instructions
This medicine is given as an injection.
Carefully follow the instructions for preparing this medicine before injection.
Do not dilute the medicine until ready to use.
If using the vial, do not remove the medicine from the vial until ready to use.
The liquid should be clear and colorless.
Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.
Do not shake the medicine before using.
Keep this medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.
Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.
Never use any medicine that has expired.
Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.
Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.
You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.
Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
It is very important that you follow your doctor's instructions for all blood tests.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Some patients with weak hearts may have worsening of symptoms. If you notice difficulty breathing, weight gain, or swelling of your legs or ankles, let your doctor know right away.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
This medicine may cause serious bleeding from the stomach or bowels. Stop this medicine and call your doctor immediately if you see any signs of bleeding. Bleeding can cause pain in the stomach, vomiting up liquid that looks like coffee grounds, and red or dark tarry stools.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.
Wash your hands often and avoid close contact with people with infections such as colds and flu.
Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Call your doctor right away if you notice slow or shallow breathing.
Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- bone pain
- increased risk of cancer
- diarrhea
- lack of energy and tiredness
- fever or chills
- pain, redness, swelling near injection
- muscle pain
- nausea
- stomach upset or abdominal pain
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- pain in the abdomen
- chest pain
- coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
- fainting
- feeling of heat or flushing
- high fever
- flu-like symptoms
- fast or irregular heart beats
- shortness of breath
- sore throat
- dark, tarry stool
- blood in urine
- dark urine
- blurring or changes of vision
- sudden or unexplained weight gain
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about SARGRAMOSTIM - INJECTION
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Selected from data included with permission and copyright by First DataBank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.
