Leucostim is a medication that contains filgrastim and is used to increase bone marrow production and white blood cell count during treatments such as chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation. Leucostim can help reduce the risk of infection and regulate blood counts in patients with impaired or suppressed bone marrow function. It can also help reduce symptoms caused by infections. This medication should be used under the supervision of a doctor or healthcare professional and requires a prescription. The dosage and duration of use may vary depending on the patient’s health condition and treatment needs.
What is Leucostim Used For?
Leucostim is commonly used in the following cases:
- Post-Chemotherapy Bone Marrow Recovery
- Bone Marrow Transplantation
- Idiopathic Neutrophilic Leukemia
- Other Bone Marrow Disorders
How is Leucostim Used?
Leucostim can be administered in different doses and forms depending on the patient’s health condition, treatment needs, and goals:
Dosage: The dosage of Leucostim is determined by the doctor depending on the patient’s treatment needs and health condition.
Route of Administration: Leucostim is usually administered as an injection or intravenous drip.
Injection Site: Leucostim injections are typically given subcutaneously.
Frequency of Use: Leucostim is usually used in daily or weekly doses.
Monitoring and Supervision: During the use of Leucostim, blood counts and response to treatment should be regularly monitored.
Prescription and Instructions: Leucostim should always be used as recommended by your doctor.
What are the Side Effects of Leucostim?
The use of Leucostim can cause some side effects:
- headache
- muscle and joint pain
- bone pain
- dry mouth
- nausea and vomiting
- diarrhea, abdominal pain
- loss of appetite
- fatigue, weakness
- muscle pain and weakness
The use of Leucostim can also lead to some more serious side effects:
- lung problems
- vascular problems
- allergic reactions
- low blood counts
Does Leucostim Interact with Other Medications?
There are potential medications that Leucostim can interact with:
- Chemotherapy Drugs
- Anticoagulants
- Steroids
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
When Should Leucostim Not Be Used?
There are certain conditions and situations where Leucostim should not be used:
Allergy: If you have a severe allergy to Leucostim or drugs like filgrastim, you should not use these medications.
Myeloid Malignancies: Some myeloid malignancies require special treatment and the use of Leucostim in these conditions should be done under the supervision of a doctor.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: The use of Leucostim is contraindicated in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Splenic Rupture: Leucostim should not be used in patients at risk of splenic rupture.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Nephrotic Syndrome: The use of Leucostim is contraindicated in the treatment of certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or nephrotic syndrome.
Bone Marrow Problems: Before using Leucostim, you should discuss with your doctor about bone marrow problems or bone marrow cancer.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should discuss this with your doctor before using Leucostim.
What Precautions Should Be Taken While Using Leucostim?
There are several important precautions to be taken while using Leucostim:
Follow Doctor’s Instructions: You should only use Leucostim according to your doctor’s prescription and instructions.
Store Medications Properly: Store medications properly following the instructions on the package and the recommended temperature and humidity conditions.
Adhere to the Frequency of Use: You must strictly adhere to the frequency of use specified by your doctor.
Keep Injection Sites Clean: Keep the injection sites clean and hygienic.
Injection Technique: Insert the needle slowly and gently into the subcutaneous tissue and prevent the medication from leaking onto the skin.
Monitor Side Effects: If you experience any side effects or signs of an allergic reaction while using Leucostim or filgrastim, contact your doctor immediately.
Interaction with Other Medications: If you are using other medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements, discuss the potential interactions of these drugs with your doctor or pharmacist.
Monitor Blood Counts: Your doctor will regularly monitor blood counts during the treatment.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the effects of the medications on the fetus or baby with your doctor.
Radiation and Chemotherapy: If you are receiving radiation or chemotherapy while using Leucostim, discuss this with your doctor.
Availability of Leucostim in Turkey
Leucostim is available in Turkey and is covered by SGK for reimbursement. The retail prices for Leucostim SC/IV Ready-to-Use Syringe 30 MIU 5*1 ml syringe package is 3348.85 TL; Leucostim SC/IV Ready-to-Use Syringe 30 MIU 1*1 ml syringe package is 581.25 TL; Leucostim SC/IV Ready-to-Use Syringe 15 MIU 5*0.5 ml syringe package is 3165.89 TL; and Leucostim SC/IV Ready-to-Use Syringe 15 MIU 1*0.5 ml syringe package is 653.05 TL.
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