Leukine 250 MCG - Sargramostin

Storage/Handling:

Store at room temperature at a maximum of 25°C. Do not freeze.

Uses of Leukine 250 MCG - Sargramostin:

Used in the treatment of for the treatment of cancer and bone marrow transplant.

Product Introduction:

Sargramostin is a modified version of a substance known as granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor. It's used to boost the production of immune cells after treatments that weaken the bone marrow or during bone marrow transplants.

This medication is beneficial for individuals recovering from bone marrow transplants or those who've undergone chemotherapy, particularly those with acute myelogenous leukemia. It works by enhancing the survival, growth, and specialization of certain blood cell precursors. GM-CSF, like Sargramostin, can also activate mature immune cells like granulocytes and macrophages.

After a bone marrow transplant or chemotherapy, patients often have difficulty producing enough red and white blood cells. Supplementing their supply with external GM-CSF helps restore normal levels of neutrophils, which are vital for fighting infections.

In some cases, Sargramostin is used to reduce the risk of infection in people with HIV. However, it's crucial to discuss the potential risks of using this medication for your specific situation with your doctor.

Side Effects of Leukine 250 MCG - Sargramostin:

Common side effects -
redness, swelling, bruising, itching or a lump in the injected area
bone, joint, or muscle pain
headache
nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
stomach pain
mouth sores
loss of appetite
hair loss

Some serious side effects
shortness of breath or fast breathing
difficulty breathing
wheezing
dizziness
sweating
hives
rash
itching
Inflammation in the areas near the mouth, face, eyes, abdomen, feet, ankles, or lower legs
sudden weight gain
chest pain
fast or irregular heartbeat
fainting
uncommon bruising or purple marks under the skin
unusual bleeding
nosebleeds
unusual tiredness or weakness
decreased urination

Drug Interactions:

Let your doctor and pharmacist know about any prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, or herbal products you're using or intend to use.

How Leukine 250 MCG - Sargramostin Works:

Sargramostin is a growth factor that makes your bone marrow create more white blood cells. These cells protect the body against infections.

How To Use Leukine 250 MCG - Sargramostin:

Leukine injection is given as an injection under the skin or into a vein as your doctor tells you, usually once a day. The dose depends on your health condition, body size, lab tests, and how you respond to treatment. If you're using this medicine at home, your healthcare provider and the product's instructions will teach you how to prepare and use it.

Don't shake the medicine. Before using it, visually inspect it for any particles or unusual color. If you see either, don't use the liquid. If you're injecting it under the skin, clean the injection spot with rubbing alcohol first.

Safety Instructions For Leukine 250 MCG - Sargramostin:

PREGNANCY Unsafe Use sargramostin during pregnancy only if really necessary, and discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. LIVER Caution Inform your doctor about any liver disease before consuming the medication KIDNEY Caution Inform your doctor about any kidney disease before consuming the medication. Driving Safe The effect of medication on your driving condition is not known

BREAST FEEDING Consult your Doctor The passage of drug into the breast milk is unknown. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

ALCOHOL Exercise Caution The effect of alcohol on medication is not known.

Habit Forming

No

Remember:

1. Sargramostin is given as an injection into a vein or under the skin by the healthcare provider only.
2. Do not skip any dose and complete the course as suggested by your doctor
3. Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your blood cell count and liver function.
4. Inform your doctor if you experience fever, chills, sore throat and shortness of breath during the treatment.
5. Sargramostin belongs to a group of medicines called colony-stimulating factors. It works by helping the body produce more neutrophils and certain other blood cells.
6. If you're using sargramostin to reduce infection risk during chemotherapy, you'll receive it at least 4 days after each chemotherapy cycle.
7. Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to sargramostin, yeast, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in sargramostin injection. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
8. You should know that sargramostin decreases the risk of infection, but does not prevent all infections that may develop during or after chemotherapy. Call your doctor right away if you have signs of infection, like a fever, chills, sore throat, or a persistent cough and congestion.
9. If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using sargramostin.

FAQs:

1. What if we missed the dose?

Stick to your medication schedule. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a new dosing plan. Don't take double doses to catch up.

2. What happens if I overdose?

In the case of overdose, call your doctor immediately if you see symptoms such as -
shortness of breath
unusual tiredness or weakness
fever
fast or irregular heartbeat
nausea
headache
rash

3. How to dispose of the Sargramostin?

Don't flush this medicine down the toilet. The safest way to dispose of it is through a medicine take-back program. Ask your pharmacist or check with your local garbage/recycling department for take-back programs in your area.

4. What special dietary instructions should I follow?

You can continue with your normal diet unless your doctor suggests you to make any changes

5. Can Sargramostin cause any allergy?

Sargramostin might have inactive ingredients, like benzyl alcohol, that could trigger allergies or other issues. Speak with your pharmacist for more information.