Filgrastim is a leukocyte growth factor that binds to cell surface receptors on hematopoietic cells stimulating proliferation, differentiation, commitment, and end cell functional activation. It is indicated to increase survival in patients acutely exposed to myelosuppressive doses of radiation. Efficacy for this indication was based on animal data in monkeys. Filgrastim is also indicated for the mobilization of peripheral blood progenitor cells for collection by leukapheresis. Filgrastim is indicated to decrease the incidence of infection in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies receiving myelosuppressive anticancer drugs associated with a significant incidence of febrile neutropenia; to reduce the time to neutrophil recovery and the duration of fever following induction or consolidation chemotherapy in patients with acute myeloid leukemia; to reduce the duration of neutropenia and related clinical sequelae in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies undergoing myeloablative chemotherapy followed by bone marrow transplantation; and to reduce the incidence and duration of sequelae of neutropenia in symptomatic patients with severe chronic neutropenia. Acute respiratory distress syndrome, fatal splenic rupture, and glomerulonephritis have occurred with filgrastim.
General Administration Information
For storage information, see the specific product information within the How Supplied section.
Route-Specific Administration
Injectable Administration
-Filgrastim may be administered as a subcutaneous injection, a short intravenous (IV) infusion, or as a continuous IV infusion.
-Administer filgrastim at least 24 hours before or 24 hours after chemotherapy.
-Do not shake vials or prefilled syringes.
-Store vials or prefilled syringes in the refrigerator (2 to 8 degrees C; 36 and 46 degrees F) in the carton. Protect from light.
-Avoid freezing filgrastim products. If frozen (Neupogen, Nivestym, or Zarxio only), thaw in the refrigerator; throw away if the product has been frozen more than once.
-Prior to use, allow filgrastim vials or prefilled syringes to reach room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
-Discard any Neupogen, Nivestym, or Releuko vial or prefilled syringe exposed to room temperature for more than 24 hours; discard any Zarxio prefilled syringe exposed to room temperature for more than 4 days or if left out at above 25 degrees C (77 degrees F) for more than 24 hours.
-Visually inspect parenteral products for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit.
-Products are for single-use; do not re-enter the vial or save unused drug for later administration.
-Do not use the Zarxio prefilled syringe if it has been dropped on a hard surface of dropped after removing the needle cap.
Intravenous Administration
-Dilute prior to intravenous (IV) use.
Dilution
-After calculating/selecting the appropriate dose, dilute the filgrastim vial (concentration of 300 mcg/mL) in 5% Dextrose Injection to a final concentration of 5 mcg/mL or more. Do NOT dilute with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection; the product may precipitate.
-Use a glass bottle, a polyvinyl chloride (PCV) or polyolefin IV bag, or a polypropylene syringe as a container for the diluted solution.
-To protect the absorption of filgrastim to the plastic container in diluted solutions at concentrations of 5 to 15 mcg/mL, add albumin to a final concentration of 2 mg/mL.
-Storage after dilution: Diluted filgrastim IV solutions may be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours (Neupogen, Nivestym, or Zarxio) or up to 4 hours (Releuko); the total storage time includes the infusion time.
IV Infusion
-Administer the diluted IV infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or as a continuous IV infusion given over 24 hours.
Subcutaneous Administration
-Single-dose vials or prefilled-syringes may be used for subcutaneous injections.
-Patient or caregiver may administer after being properly trained on storage, preparation, and administration technique. Follow instructions for use provided by manufacturer.
-No dilution is necessary.
Subcutaneous Injection Using Prefilled Syringe
-Do not activate the needle guard prior to injection; pull the needle cover straight off.
-The Nivestym, Zarxio, and Releuka prefilled syringes are not designed to administer doses less than 0.3 mL (180 mcg).
-Inject filgrastim in a recommended subcutaneous injection site (i.e., the outer area of the upper arm, the abdomen excluding the 2-inch area around the navel, the front of the middle thigh, and the upper outer areas of the buttocks).
-Do not recap the needle; slide the needle guard over the needle until the needle is completely covered and the needle guard clicks into place.
Subcutaneous Injection Using Single-Use Vials
-Withdraw the contents of the filgrastim vial into a syringe.
-Inject filgrastim subcutaneously in a recommended injection site (i.e., the outer area of the upper arm, the abdomen excluding the 2-inch area around the navel, the front of the middle thigh, and the upper outer areas of the buttocks).
Serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylactoid reactions) have been reported with filgrastim use. Most reactions occurred with the first dose and some reactions recurred days after treatment with anti-allergy medications. Symptoms of hypersensitivity may include dyspnea, facial edema (angioedema), hypotension, rash, fast heart rate/pulse, and wheezing. Permanently discontinue filgrastim in patients who experience a serious allergic reaction. Hypersensitivity occurred in 5% or more of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or lymphoblastic leukemia who received filgrastim as a daily 4-hour IV infusion following high-dose chemotherapy/total body irradiation or patients with Hodgkin disease or non-Hodgkin lymphoma who received filgrastim as a 24-hour IV infusion after high-dose chemotherapy and an autologous bone marrow transplant (n = 72) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 28) in a pooled analysis from 2 randomized studies.
Splenic rupture and splenomegaly have been reported in postmarketing surveillance of filgrastim; some cases were fatal. Evaluate patients who have left upper abdominal pain or left shoulder pain for evidence of splenomegaly or splenic rupture. Splenomegaly was reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 60) in a randomized study.
In postmarketing surveillance, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been reported in patients who received filgrastim. Evaluate patients who have signs (e.g., diffuse bilateral lung infiltrates on chest X-ray) or who develop symptoms (e.g., respiratory distress, hypoxia) of ARDS. Discontinue filgrastim if a patient is diagnosed with ARDS. Alveolar hemorrhage (alveolar bleeding) manifesting as pulmonary infiltrates and hemoptysis requiring hospitalization have been reported in healthy donors treated with filgrastim products for peripheral blood progenitor cell (PBPC) mobilization, an off-label use of filgrastim. Hemoptysis resolved with discontinuation of filgrastim. Cough (14%) and dyspnea (13%) occurred more often in cancer patients who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) compared with placebo (n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies.
In postmarketing surveillance, sickle-cell crisis has occurred in patients with sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait who received filgrastim; some cases were fatal. Monitor patients with sickle cell disease for symptoms of sickle-cell crisis (e.g., acute pain in more than one part of the body with extreme tiredness or difficulty breathing). Discontinue filgrastim if a patient has a sickle cell crisis.
Glomerulonephritis has occurred in patients receiving filgrastim. Signs and symptoms of glomerulonephritis include azotemia or a decrease in urine production; hematuria or dark colored urine or blood in the urine; proteinuria; or fluid retention in the face or ankles. A renal biopsy may confirm a diagnosis. Consider holding therapy or a dose reduction if glomerulonephritis is likely due to filgrastim; signs and symptoms usually resolve following a dose reduction or drug discontinuation.
Capillary leak syndrome has been reported in patients receiving filgrastim. Closely monitor patients who develop signs or symptoms of capillary leak syndrome such as hypotension, hypoalbuminemia, edema, and hemoconcentration. This condition may be severe or life-threatening if treatment is delayed; therefore, administer standard medical treatment, including hospitalization in an intensive care setting if necessary.
Thrombocytopenia (5% to 38%) and anemia (5% or more) have been reported with filgrastim. Monitor hemoglobin/hematocrit levels and platelet count. Thrombocytopenia occurred more often (38% vs. 29%) in cancer patients who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) vs. placebo (n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies. Adverse reactions in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy followed by autologous BMT with 5% or higher incidence in filgrastim patients compared to patients receiving no filgrastim included thrombocytopenia and anemia. Anemia was reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 60) in a randomized study. Transfusion reaction is a toxicity that was associated with the underlying malignancy or chemotherapy and was reported in 2% or more of patients with acute myelogenous leukemia who received filgrastim (n = 257) compared with placebo (n = 261) following induction therapy in a randomized, double-blind study.
Leukocytosis (white blood cell [WBC] count of 100,000 cells/mm3 or more) has been reported in postmarketing surveillance in approximately 2% of patients who received filgrastim doses of more than 5 mcg/kg/day. When filgrastim is used following myelosuppressive chemotherapy, obtain a complete blood count (CBC) panel including differential at least twice weekly during therapy; discontinue filgrastim if the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is more than 10,000 cells/mm3 (after the chemotherapy-induced ANC nadir occurs). In cancer patients, the ANC usually decreases by 50% within 1 to 2 days after filgrastim is discontinued, then neutrophil counts return to pretreatment levels in 1 to 7 days. When filgrastim is used for peripheral blood progenitor cell mobilization, obtain a CBC panel 4 days after starting therapy; discontinue filgrastim if the WBC count is more than 100,000 cells/mm3. When filgrastim is used following bone marrow transplantation, obtain a CBC panel with differential frequently and titrate the daily filgrastim dose based on the ANC. In patients with severe chronic neutropenia, monitor the CBC with differential during the initial 4 weeks of therapy and during the 2 weeks following dosage adjustments. Monthly monitoring continued for the first year of filgrastim therapy may begin when the patient is clinically stable; thereafter, monitoring may be less frequent if the neutrophil count remains stable.
Dermatologic toxicity such as rash (unspecified) (5% to 14%) has been reported with filgrastim. Additionally, moderate to severe cutaneous vasculitis and Sweet syndrome (acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis) have been reported postmarketing. Most cases of cutaneous vasculitis were moderate or severe and occurred in patients with severe chronic neutropenia who received long-term filgrastim therapy. Interrupt therapy in patients who develop cutaneous vasculitis; consider restarting filgrastim at a reduced dosage after the symptoms resolve if the neutrophil count drops. Rash occurred more often in cancer patients (14%) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) vs. placebo (5%, n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies. Alopecia is a toxicity that was associated with the underlying malignancy or chemotherapy and was reported in 5% or more of patients who received filgrastim compared with placebo. Erythema and maculopapular rash were reported in 2% or more of patients with acute myelogenous leukemia who received filgrastim (n = 257) compared with placebo (n = 261) following induction therapy with daunorubicin, cytarabine, and etoposide in a randomized, double-blind study. Rash occurred in 5% or more of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or lymphoblastic leukemia who received filgrastim as a daily 4-hour IV infusion following high-dose chemotherapy/total body irradiation or patients with Hodgkin disease or non-Hodgkin lymphoma who received filgrastim as a 24-hour IV infusion after high-dose chemotherapy and an autologous bone marrow transplant (n = 72) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 28) in a pooled analysis from 2 randomized studies. Alopecia was reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 60) in a randomized study.
Aortitis has been reported in patients who received filgrastim; it may occur as early as the first week of therapy. Signs and symptoms of aortitis may include fever, abdominal pain, general ill feeling, pain in the back, and increased inflammatory markers (e.g., c-reactive protein and white blood cell count). Consider aortitis in patients who develop these signs and symptoms without known etiology. Discontinue filgrastim if aortitis is suspected.
Chest pain (unspecified) occurred more often (13% vs. 6%) in cancer patients who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) compared with placebo (n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies. Chest pain was reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia study (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 60) in a randomized study. Adverse reactions in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy followed by autologous BMT with 5% or higher incidence in filgrastim patients compared to patients receiving no filgrastim included hypertension.
During clinical trials in cancer patients, hyperpyrexia (fever) (48% vs. 29%) and fatigue occurred more often (20% vs. 10%) in those receiving subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) compared with placebo (n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies. In trials of cancer patients undergoing autologous PBPC in the mobilization phase, fever (pyrexia) occurred in 16% of patients. Adverse events with 5% or higher incidence in filgrastim patients compared to placebo and associated with the sequelae of the underlying malignancy or cytotoxic chemotherapy delivered included asthenia, malaise, and peripheral edema.
Musculoskeletal side effects such as back pain (2% to 15%), bone pain (5% to 30%), and extremity pain (2% to 7%) have been reported with filgrastim. Arthralgia (9%), back pain (15%), bone pain (11%), extremity pain (7%), and pain (12%) occurred more often in cancer patients who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) compared with placebo (n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies; additionally, increased levels of alkaline phosphatase (6% vs. 1%), an enzyme produced by bone, and lactate dehydrogenase (6% vs. 1%), an enzyme released by muscle, occurred more frequently with filgrastim. In this analysis, other toxicities that were associated with the underlying malignancy or chemotherapy and were reported in 5% or more of patients who received filgrastim compared placebo include oral pain and oropharyngeal pain. Back pain and extremity pain each were reported in 2% or more of patients with acute myelogenous leukemia who received filgrastim vs. placebo following induction therapy. Bone pain occurred in 30% of patients with cancer who received subcutaneous filgrastim for the mobilization of autologous peripheral blood progenitor cells for collection by leukapheresis in a pooled analysis from 7 clinical studies (n = 166); increased alkaline phosphatase levels was reported in 11% of patients. Arthralgia, back pain, bone pain, extremity pain, muscle cramps/spasms, and musculoskeletal pain each were reported in 5% or more of severe chronic neutropenia patients (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) vs. no filgrastim therapy in a randomized study. In postmarketing surveillance, decreased bone density and osteoporosis have been reported in pediatric patients receiving filgrastim for severe chronic neutropenia.
Dizziness occurred more often (14% vs. 3%) in cancer patients who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) compared with placebo (n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies. Headache occurred in 10% of patients with cancer who received subcutaneous filgrastim for the mobilization of autologous peripheral blood progenitor cells for collection by leukapheresis in a pooled analysis from 7 clinical studies (n = 166). Hypoesthesia was reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia study (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 60) in a randomized study.
Gastrointestinal toxicity such as diarrhea (2% or more) has been reported with filgrastim. Nausea occurred more often (43% vs. 32%) in cancer patients who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 294) compared with placebo (n = 157) following myelosuppressive chemotherapy in a pooled analysis from 3 randomized studies; other gastrointestinal toxicities that were associated with the underlying malignancy or chemotherapy and were reported in 5% or more of patients who received filgrastim compared with placebo include anorexia, constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting. Constipation and diarrhea are gastrointestinal toxicities that were associated with the underlying malignancy or chemotherapy and were reported in 2% or more of patients with acute myelogenous leukemia who received filgrastim (n = 257) compared with placebo (n = 261) following induction chemotherapy in a randomized, double-blind study. Diarrhea was reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia study (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 60) in a randomized study.
Epistaxis was reported in 2% or more of patients with acute myelogenous leukemia who received filgrastim (n = 257) compared with placebo (n = 261) following induction chemotherapy in a randomized, double-blind study. Epistaxis was also reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) in a randomized study.
Infection has been reported with filgrastim. Adverse infectious reactions in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy followed by autologous BMT with 5% or more of filgrastim patients (and at an incidence higher than placebo) included sepsis and bronchitis. Upper respiratory tract infection and urinary tract infection each were reported in 5% or more of patients with severe chronic neutropenia (age range, 7 months to 76 years) who received subcutaneous filgrastim (n = 62) compared with no filgrastim therapy (n = 60) in a randomized study.
Adverse reactions in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy followed by autologous BMT with 5% or higher incidence in filgrastim patients compared to patients receiving no filgrastim included insomnia.
Antibody formation has been reported with filgrastim therapy in 3% of patients (n = 11 of 333) in clinical trials; no neutralizing antibodies were observed using a cell-based bioassay.
New primary malignancy including myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) has been reported in postmarketing surveillance of breast and lung cancer patients who received filgrastim in conjunction with cytotoxic chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Monitor these patients for signs and symptoms of MDS and AML. Cytogenetic abnormalities that transformed to MDS or AML have been reported in pediatric patients with congenital neutropenia who received chronic treatment with filgrastim.
Extramedullary hematopoiesis has been reported in postmarketing surveillance of filgrastim.
Filgrastim is contraindicated for use in patients with a history of serious allergic reactions to granulocyte colony-stimulating factors such as filgrastim or pegfilgrastim or any other component of the product (e.g., E. coli protein hypersensitivity). Serious allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) have been reported with filgrastim use. Most reactions occurred with the first dose and some reactions recurred days after treatment with anti-allergy medications. Permanently discontinue filgrastim in patients who experience a serious allergic reaction.
Use filgrastim with caution in patients with sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait because severe sickle cell crises have been reported in this patient population; some cases were fatal. Prior to starting granulocyte colony-stimulating factor therapy, consider the potential risks compared with benefits for patients with sickle cell disease. Monitor patients with sickle cell disease for symptoms of sickle cell crises such as pain or difficulty breathing. Discontinue filgrastim if sickle cell crisis occurs.
Filgrastim stimulates the production of hematopoietic stem cells and leukocytosis (white blood cell [WBC] count 100,000 cells/mm3 or more) has been reported. Thrombocytopenia has also occurred with filgrastim use. When filgrastim is used following myelosuppressive chemotherapy, obtain a complete blood count (CBC) panel including differential and platelets at least twice weekly during therapy; discontinue filgrastim if the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is more than 10,000 cells/mm3 (after the chemotherapy-induced ANC nadir occurs). The ANC usually decreases by 50% within 1 to 2 days after filgrastim is discontinued, then neutrophil counts return to pretreatment levels in 1 to 7 days. When filgrastim is used for peripheral blood progenitor cell mobilization, obtain a CBC panel 4 days after starting therapy; discontinue filgrastim if the WBC count is more than 100,000 cells/mm3. When filgrastim is used after a bone marrow transplantation, obtain a CBC panel including differential frequently and titrate the daily filgrastim dose based on the ANC. In patients with severe chronic neutropenia, monitor the CBC with differential during the initial 4 weeks of therapy and during the 2 weeks following dosage adjustments. Begin monthly monitoring throughout the first year of therapy when the patient is clinically stable; thereafter, monitoring may be less frequent if the neutrophil count remains stable.
Filgrastim stimulates the production of hematopoietic stem cells, primarily neutrophils, and it may act as a growth factor for myeloid cells in myeloid malignancies. Due to the risk of developing a new primary malignancy, filgrastim is not indicated for use in patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Patients with congenital neutropenia who receive filgrastim may be at increased risk of developing cytogenetic abnormalities, MDS, and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Monitor these patients for signs and symptoms of MDS/AML. Because the risk of developing a myeloid malignancy is increased in patients with abnormal cytogenetics or MDS, perform a risk/benefit analysis in patients with congenital neutropenia who develop abnormal cytogenetics or myelodysplasia. Additionally, increased hematopoietic activity of the bone marrow in response to growth factor therapy has been associated with transient positive bone imaging changes. This should be considered when interpreting bone-imaging results. Patients with lung cancer or breast cancer who received filgrastim in conjunction with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy may be at increased risk for developing MDS and AML; monitor these patients for signs and symptoms of MDS and AML.
The needle cap on the Neupogen and Zarxio prefilled syringes contain natural rubber. Health care workers or patients with a latex hypersensitivity should not handle or administer this product. Patients with a latex hypersensitivity should receive these products with caution. Of note, the Nivestym syringe plunger stopper and needle cover are NOT made with natural rubber.
Due to the potential sensitivity of rapidly dividing myeloid cells, avoid the concurrent use of filgrastim with radiation therapy.
Transplacental filgrastim passage has been reported in pregnant women when filgrastim was administered up to 30 hours prior to preterm obstetric delivery (30 weeks gestation or less).
The potential risk to the fetus with the use of filgrastim during pregnancy is unknown; there are no adequate and well-controlled clinical studies in pregnant women. Several observational studies have shown no major differences in pregnancy outcome (including miscarriage and preterm labor), neonatal complications (including birth weight), and infections between treated and untreated women. No malformations were observed during animal studies. Reduced embryo-fetal survival and increased fetal abortion were observed in pregnant rabbits who received filgrastim doses that were 2- to 10-times higher than doses used in humans.
The transfer of filgrastim into human milk has been documented in published literature. However, no adverse effects in breast-feeding infants have been noted. The effects of filgrastim on human milk production are unknown. Other recombinant filgrastim products are poorly secreted into breast milk, and filgrastim is not orally absorbed by neonates. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding compared with the risk of a potential adverse event in the infant prior to administering filgrastim in a lactating woman.
For the treatment of neutropenia:
-for the treatment of severe chronic congenital neutropenia:
Filgrastim has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for this indication.
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Infants 7 months and older: 6 mcg/kg subcutaneously twice daily initially. Individualize the dosage to maintain clinical benefit based on patient clinical course and absolute neutrophil count (ANC). In a postmarketing surveillance study in 731 patients (adults, n = 302; pediatric patients, n = 429), the median filgrastim dose was 6 mcg/kg/day. Rarely, doses of 100 mcg/kg/day or more have been required. The starting dose for congenital neutropenia was 11.5 mcg/kg/day (based on actual body weight) given subcutaneously in 2 divided doses in a randomized trial in patients with chronic severe neutropenia (n = 123; median age of 12.1 years; range, 7 months to 76 years). In this study, the filgrastim dosage was adjusted to a level that maintained a median monthly ANC between 1,500 cells/mm3 and 10,000 cells/mm3. The dosage was increased if the median ANC was below 1,500 cells/mm3 for 2 weeks. The dosage was decreased if the median ANC was 10,000 cells/mm3 or more for 4 weeks. The median ANC was significantly improved in 62 patients who received 4 months of filgrastim compared with 60 patients who received 4 months of observation only (6.1 cells/mm3 vs. 0.21 cells/mm3; p-value 0.001 or less). In patients with congenital neutropenia, the median ANC was 3.45 cells/mm3 in the filgrastim arm (n = 31; median age of 7.7 years; range, 1.1 to 32.9 years) and 0.15 cells/mm3 in the observation only arm (n = 29; median age of 8 years; range, 0.6 to 33.8 years).
-for the treatment of severe chronic cyclic neutropenia:
Filgrastim has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for this indication.
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Infants 7 months and older: 5 mcg/kg subcutaneously once daily initially. Individualize the dosage to maintain clinical benefit based on patient clinical course and absolute neutrophil count (ANC). In a postmarketing surveillance study in 731 patients (adults, n = 302; pediatric patients, n = 429), the median filgrastim dose was 2.1 mcg/kg/day in patients with cyclic neutropenia. The starting dose for cyclic neutropenia 5.75 mcg/kg/day (based on actual body weight) given subcutaneously in a randomized trial in patients with chronic severe neutropenia (n = 123; median age of 12.1 years; range, 7 months to 76 years). In this study, the filgrastim dosage was adjusted to a level that maintained a median monthly ANC between 1,500 cells/mm3 and 10,000 cells/mm3. The dosage was increased if the median ANC was below 1,500 cells/mm3 for 2 weeks. The dosage was decreased if the median ANC was 10,000 cells/mm3 or more for 4 weeks The median ANC was significantly improved in 62 patients who received 4 months of filgrastim compared with 60 patients who received 4 months of observation only (6.1 cells/mm3 vs. 0.21 cells/mm3; p-value 0.001 or less). In patients with cyclic neutropenia, the median ANC was 9.88 cells/mm3 in the filgrastim arm (n = 10; median age of 10.7 years; range, 2.5 to 47.2 years) and 0.67 cells/mm3 in the observation only arm (n = 11; median age of 27.4 years; range, 10.5 to 59.1 years).
-for the treatment of severe chronic idiopathic neutropenia:
Filgrastim has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for this indication.
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Infants 7 months and older: 5 mcg/kg subcutaneously once daily initially. Individualize the dosage to maintain clinical benefit based on patient clinical courses and absolute neutrophil count (ANC). In a postmarketing surveillance study in 731 patients (adults, n = 302; pediatric patients, n = 429), the median filgrastim dose was 1.2 mcg/kg/day in patients with idiopathic neutropenia. The starting dose for idiopathic neutropenia was 3.45 mcg/kg/day (based on actual body weight) given subcutaneously in a randomized trial in patients with chronic severe neutropenia (n = 123). In this study, the filgrastim dosage was adjusted to a level that maintained a median monthly ANC between 1,500 cells/mm3 and 10,000 cells/mm3. The dosage was increased if the median ANC was below 1,500 cells/mm3 for 2 weeks. The dosage was decreased if the median ANC was 10,000 cells/mm3 or more for 4 weeks The median ANC was significantly improved in 62 patients who received 4 months of filgrastim compared with 60 patients who received 4 months of observation only (6.1 cells/mm3 vs. 0.21 cells/mm3; p-value 0.001 or less). In patients with idiopathic neutropenia, the median ANC was 9.72 cells/mm3 in the filgrastim arm (n = 21; median age of 28.5 years; range, 2.1 to 69.1 years) and 0.23 cells/mm3 in the observation only arm (n = 20; median age of 30.8 years; range, 1.3 to 75.7 years).
For chemotherapy-induced neutropenia prophylaxis to reduce the incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy associated with a clinically significant incidence of febrile neutropenia:
-as primary prophylaxis in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies:
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as a subcutaneous injection. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Consider rounding the dose to the nearest vial size. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recommend the use of colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) for primary prophylaxis in patients who are at high-risk of developing febrile neutropenia (e.g., age more than 65 years, prior episodes of febrile neutropenia, poor nutritional status, poor performance status, open wounds or active infections, combined chemoradiotherapy, history of extensive treatment including large radiation ports, tumor bone marrow involvement resulting in cytopenias, and advanced cancer), have other comorbidities, or who are receiving dose-dense chemotherapy with the intention of cure or a chemotherapy regimen with an expected incidence of febrile neutropenia of 20% or more.
Children and Adolescents: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as a subcutaneous injection. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recognize that the use of colony-stimulating factors are guided by clinical protocols. Filgrastim may be considered as primary prophylaxis in children who are at high-risk for febrile neutropenia.
Intravenous dosage:
Adults: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as an IV infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or by continuous IV infusion. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Consider rounding the dose to the nearest vial size. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recommend the use of colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) for primary prophylaxis in patients who are at high-risk of developing febrile neutropenia (e.g., age more than 65 years, prior episodes of febrile neutropenia, poor nutritional status, poor performance status, open wounds or active infections, combined chemoradiotherapy, history of extensive treatment including large radiation ports, tumor bone marrow involvement resulting in cytopenias, and advanced cancer), have other comorbidities, or who are receiving dose-dense chemotherapy with the intention of cure or a chemotherapy regimen with an expected incidence of febrile neutropenia of 20% or more.
Children and Adolescents: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as an IV infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or by continuous IV infusion. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recognize that the use of colony-stimulating factors are guided by clinical protocols. Filgrastim may be considered as primary prophylaxis in children who are at high-risk for febrile neutropenia.
-as secondary prophylaxis in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies:
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as a subcutaneous injection. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Consider rounding the dose to the nearest vial size. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recommend the use of colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) for secondary prophylaxis in patients who had a neutropenic complication after a prior cycle of chemotherapy (when a CSF was not given as primary prophylaxis) and in situations that a chemotherapy dose reduction may compromise the disease-free or overall survival or treatment outcome.
Children and Adolescents: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as a subcutaneous injection. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recognize that use of colony-stimulating factors is guided by clinical protocols. Filgrastim may be considered as secondary prophylaxis in children who are at high-risk for febrile neutropenia.
Intravenous dosage:
Adults: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as an IV infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or by continuous IV infusion. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Consider rounding the dose to the nearest vial size. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recommend the use of colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) for secondary prophylaxis in patients who had a neutropenic complication after a prior cycle of chemotherapy (when a CSF was not given as primary prophylaxis) and in situations that a chemotherapy dose reduction may compromise the disease-free or overall survival or treatment outcome.
Children and Adolescents: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as an IV infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or by continuous IV infusion. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recognize that use of colony-stimulating factors is guided by clinical protocols. Filgrastim may be considered as secondary prophylaxis in children who are at high-risk for febrile neutropenia.
-following bone marrow transplantation in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies:
Filgrastim has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for this indication.
Intravenous dosage:
Adults: 10 mcg/kg/day administered as an IV infusion; infuse over no longer than 24 hours. Start no sooner than 24 hours after chemotherapy and 24 hours after bone marrow infusion. Titrate the daily dose according to the absolute neutrophil count (ANC). When the ANC is above 1,000 cells/mm3 for 3 consecutive days, reduce to 5 mcg/kg/day. After this dose reduction, discontinue filgrastim when the ANC remains above 1,000 cells/mm3 for 3 consecutive days; resume therapy at 5 mcg/kg/day if the ANC decreases to less than 1,000 cells/mm3 after drug discontinuation. If the ANC is less than 1,000 cells/mm3 when a patient is receiving 5 mcg/kg/day, increase filgrastim dose to 10 mcg/kg/day. The American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical guidelines recommend colony-stimulating factors following an autologous peripheral blood stem-cell transplant.
-following induction or consolidation therapy in patients with acute myelogenous leukemia:
Filgrastim has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for this indication.
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as a subcutaneous injection. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Consider rounding the dose to the nearest vial size . Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) clinical guidelines suggest that colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) may be used after initial induction therapy; acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) patients aged more than 55 years may benefit the most from post-induction CSF therapy. The benefit of shortening the duration of neutropenia has been demonstrated with post-consolidation CSF use in AML patients in remission; therefore, the ASCO guidelines recommend the use of CSFs in this setting.
Children and Adolescents: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as a subcutaneous injection. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) clinical guidelines suggest that colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) may be used after initial acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) induction therapy. The benefit of shortening the duration of neutropenia has been demonstrated with post-consolidation CSF use in AML patients in remission; therefore, the ASCO guidelines recommend the use of CSFs in this setting.
Intravenous dosage:
Adults: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as an IV infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or by continuous IV infusion. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Consider rounding the dose to the nearest vial size . Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) clinical guidelines suggest that colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) may be used after initial induction therapy; acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) patients aged more than 55 years may benefit the most from post-induction CSF therapy. The benefit of shortening the duration of neutropenia has been demonstrated with post-consolidation CSF use in AML patients in remission; therefore, the ASCO guidelines recommend the use of CSFs in this setting.
Children and Adolescents: 5 mcg/kg/day administered as an IV infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or by continuous IV infusion. Based on the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir, the filgrastim dose may be escalated in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each cycle of chemotherapy. Discontinue filgrastim if the ANC is increased to more than 10,000 cells/mm3. Treatment with filgrastim should be started between 24 and 72 hours after chemotherapy and continued until the ANC is at least 2,000 to 3,000 cells/mm3. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) clinical guidelines suggest that colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) may be used after initial acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) induction therapy. The benefit of shortening the duration of neutropenia has been demonstrated with post-consolidation CSF use in AML patients in remission; therefore, the ASCO guidelines recommend the use of CSFs in this setting.
-following induction or consolidation therapy for acute lymphocytic leukemia*:
Intravenous or Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults, Adolescents, and Children: 5 mcg/kg IV or subcutaneously once daily, rounded to the nearest vial size. Begin 24 to 72 hours after completion of chemotherapy. Administration of filgrastim may shorten the duration of neutropenia (ANC less than 1,000/mm3) by approximately 1 week. Filgrastim may be given along with corticosteroid/antimetabolite therapy; concurrent therapy does not appear to prolong the myelosuppressive effect of the chemotherapy.
For peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) mobilization prior to and during leukapheresis in cancer patients undergoing an autologous PBSC collection and therapy:
Filgrastim has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for this indication.
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: 10 mcg/kg/day administered as a subcutaneous injection. Start at least 4 days before the first leukapheresis procedure and continue until the last leukapheresis procedure. Although the optimal duration of administration and leukapheresis schedule have not been determined, a safe and effective schedule involved administration of filgrastim for 6 to 7 days, with leukapheresis on days 5, 6, and 7. Discontinue filgrastim if the white blood cell count is more than 100,000 cells/mm3.
For the treatment of acute radiation exposure, to increase survival, in patients who receive myelosuppressive doses of radiation:
Filgrastim has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for this indication.
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: 10 mcg/kg/day as a subcutaneous injection. Start filgrastim therapy as soon as possible after a patient received or is suspected of receiving a radiation dose greater than 2 gray (Gy). Use information from public health authorities, biodosimetry (if available), or clinical findings (e.g., time to onset of vomiting or lymphocyte depletion kinetics) to estimate a patient's level of radiation exposure. Obtain a complete blood cell count panel prior to starting filgrastim (if access to laboratory testing is readily available) and then every 3 days during filgrastim therapy. Discontinue therapy when the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is greater than 1,000 cells/mm3 for 3 consecutive days or the ANC is greater than 10,000 cells/mm3 after a radiation-induced nadir. Advise patients that efficacy for this indication was based on animal data in monkeys. For ethical reasons, filgrastim could not be studied in human subjects with acute radiation exposure. The 60-day mortality rate was significantly decreased in non-human primates who received filgrastim compared with placebo (21% vs. 59%; p = 0.023) starting 1 day (24 hours) after acute myelosuppressive radiation exposure in a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled study; this study was halted at an interim analysis. For ethical reasons, filgrastim could not be studied in human subjects with acute radiation exposure. ANIMAL STUDY: Filgrastim 10 mcg/kg subcutaneously once daily (n = 24) or placebo (n = 22) was administered in rhesus macaques exposed to total body irradiation (TBI) of 7.4 +/- 0.15 Gy delivered at 0.8 +/- 0.03 Gy/minute. The TBI represented a dose that would be lethal in 50% of animals by 60 days of follow-up (LD 50/60). Treatment was stopped when the ANC was at least 1,000 cells/mm3 for 3 consecutive days, the ANC was at least 10,000 cells/mm3 for more than 2 consecutive days within study days 1 to 5, or the ANC was at least 10,000 cells/mm3 any time after study day 5. All animal subjects received supportive care including IV fluids, antibiotics, and blood transfusions. The timing of filgrastim administration appears important. The 60-day mortality rate was not significantly decreased in rhesus macaques who received filgrastim vs. placebo starting 48 hours after exposure to TBI at approximately the LD 50/60 in a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled study (n = 80); this study was stopped for futility at an interim analysis.
Adolescents, Children, and Infants 7 months and older: 10 mcg/kg/day as a subcutaneous injection. Start filgrastim therapy as soon as possible after a patient received or is suspected of receiving a radiation dose greater than 2 gray (Gy). Use information from public health authorities, biodosimetry (if available), or clinical findings (e.g., time to onset of vomiting or lymphocyte depletion kinetics) to estimate a patient's level of radiation exposure. Obtain a complete blood cell count panel prior to starting filgrastim (if access to laboratory testing is readily available) and then every 3 days during filgrastim therapy. Discontinue therapy when the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is greater than 1,000 cells/mm3 for 3 consecutive days or the ANC is greater than 10,000 cells/mm3 after a radiation-induced nadir. Advise patients that efficacy for this indication was based on animal data in monkeys. The 60-day mortality rate was significantly decreased in non-human primates who received filgrastim compared with placebo (21% vs. 59%; p = 0.023) starting 1 day (24 hours) after acute myelosuppressive radiation exposure in a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled study; this study was halted at an interim analysis. For ethical reasons, filgrastim could not be studied in human subjects with acute radiation exposure. ANIMAL STUDY: Filgrastim 10 mcg/kg subcutaneously once daily (n = 24) or placebo (n = 22) was administered in rhesus macaques exposed to total body irradiation (TBI) of 7.4 +/- 0.15 Gy delivered at 0.8 +/- 0.03 Gy/minute. The TBI represented a dose that would be lethal in 50% of animals by 60 days of follow-up (LD 50/60). Treatment was stopped when the ANC was at least 1,000 cells/mm3 for 3 consecutive days, the ANC was at least 10,000 cells/mm3 for more than 2 consecutive days within study days 1 to 5, or the ANC was at least 10,000 cells/mm3 any time after study day 5. All animal subjects received supportive care including IV fluids, antibiotics, and blood transfusions. The timing of filgrastim administration appears important. The 60-day mortality rate was not significantly decreased in rhesus macaques who received filgrastim vs. placebo starting 48 hours after exposure to TBI at approximately the LD 50/60 in a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled study (n = 80); this study was stopped for futility at an interim analysis.
For the treatment of severe neutropenia in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)*:
Intravenous or Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: 5 mcg/kg/day IV or subcutaneously, rounded to the nearest vial size. Data supporting the routine, long-term use of filgrastim for MDS are lacking. Sometimes used along with erythropoesis stimulation to help induce hemoglobin response and transfusion independence. Guidelines suggest consideration for neutropenic MDS patients with recurrent infections, although there a few data from clinical trials proving infection prevention benefit.
For the treatment of severe neutropenia in HIV-infected patients* or for treatment ganciclovir-induced neutropenia* in AIDS patients with ganciclovir-treated cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis:
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: 5 to 10 mcg/kg/day (300 to 600 mcg/day) 1 to 3 times weekly have been given. Guidelines state that ganciclovir-related neutropenia can often be reversed with granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF); however, studies evaluating use of G-CSF in persons with HIV to reduce the risk of serious bacterial infection have failed to demonstrate benefit.
For the treatment of aplastic anemia*:
Subcutaneous dosage:
Adults: The usual off-label dose protocol is 5 mcg/kg subcutaneously once daily, beginning at day 8 of immunosuppressants, and continued until day 240 unless complete remission occurs earlier. Used as an adjunct to immunosuppressants (e.g., antithymocyte globulin, cyclosporine, corticosteroids) in first-line protocols for severe aplastic anemia (SAA). The addition of G-CSF reduces the rate of early infection episodes and days of hospitalization and appears to help identify non-responders to standard treatment, but has no effect on overall survival, event-free survival, remission, relapse rates, or mortality. In a post hoc analysis of patients receiving G-CSF, the lack of a neutrophil response by day 30 was associated with significantly lower response rate (56% vs. 81%; p = 0.048) and survival (65% vs. 87%; p = 0.031). Randomized clinical trials have not supported an association of G-CSF use with secondary malignancies, though earlier retrospective data suggested an association.
Children and Adolescents: The usual initial off-label dose is 5 mcg/kg subcutaneously once daily; doses exceeding 10 mcg/kg/day have been reported in children. Used as an adjunct to immunosuppressants for pediatric patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA) who have severe neutropenia. However, bone marrow transplant is usually therapy of choice.
Maximum Dosage Limits:
NOTE: Maximum daily dosage is indication dependent.
-Adults
30 mcg/kg/day IV. Subcutaneous, 24 mcg/kg/day (rarely, 100 mcg/kg/day subcutaneously or higher in patients with severe congenital neutropenia).
-Geriatric
30 mcg/kg/day IV. Subcutaneous, 24 mcg/kg/day (rarely, 100 mcg/kg/day subcutaneously or higher in patients with severe congenital neutropenia).
-Adolescents
Subcutaneous, 15 mcg/kg/day (rarely, 100 mcg/kg/day or higher in patients with severe congenital neutropenia).
-Children
Subcutaneous, 15 mcg/kg/day (rarely, 100 mcg/kg/day or higher in patients with severe congenital neutropenia).
-Infants
7 to 11 months: Subcutaneous, 12 mcg/kg/day (rarely, 100 mcg/kg/day or higher in patients with severe congenital neutropenia).
Patients with Hepatic Impairment Dosing
No dosage adjustment is necessary.
Patients with Renal Impairment Dosing
No dosage adjustment is necessary.
*non-FDA-approved indication
Abemaciclib: (Major) Do not administer abemaciclib for at least 48 hours after the last dose of colony stimulating factors, if required. Hematologic toxicities should also be resolved to grade 2 or less prior to resuming treatment with abemaciclib.
Alemtuzumab: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Alpha interferons: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Antimetabolites: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Betibeglogene Autotemcel: (Major) Avoid administration of granulocyte-colony stimulating factors for 21 days after betibeglogene autotemcel infusion.
Bexarotene: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Chlorambucil: (Major) Because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, such as hematopoietic progenitor cells, filgrastim, is contraindicated for use in patients in the period 24 hours before through 24 hours after treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Cladribine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Clofarabine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Cyclophosphamide: (Minor) Use caution if cyclophosphamide is used concomitantly with filgrastim, G-CSF; reports suggest an increased risk of pulmonary toxicity in patients treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy that includes cyclophosphamide and G-CSF.
Docetaxel: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Estramustine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Exagamglogene autotemcel: (Major) Avoid administration of granulocyte-colony stimulating factors for 21 days after exagamglogene autotemcel infusion.
Fludarabine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Hydroxyurea: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Ibritumomab Tiuxetan: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Interferon Alfa-2b: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Interferon Alfa-n3: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Lithium: (Moderate) Lithium prompts the release of neutrophils and should be used with caution during filgrastim therapy. White blood cell counts above 100,000 cells/mm3 represent a medical emergency because of the risk of serious adverse effects such as brain infarction, respiratory failure, intracranial hemorrhage, retinal hemorrhage, myocardial infarction, and acute limb ischemia. Patients receiving lithium and filgrastim or pegfilgrastim should have more frequent monitoring of WBC counts.
Lomustine, CCNU: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Lovotibeglogene autotemcel: (Major) Avoid administration of granulocyte-colony stimulating factors for 21 days after lovotibeglogene autotemcel infusion.
Mercaptopurine, 6-MP: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Methotrexate: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Natural Antineoplastics: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Nelarabine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Paclitaxel: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Pegaspargase: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Peginterferon Alfa-2a: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Pentostatin: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert their toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Ropeginterferon alfa-2b: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Tretinoin, ATRA: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Vinblastine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Vincristine Liposomal: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Vincristine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Vinorelbine: (Major) Filgrastim induces the proliferation of neutrophil-progenitor cells, and, because antineoplastic agents exert toxic effects against rapidly growing cells, filgrastim is contraindicated for use during the 24 hours before or after cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a glycoprotein involved in the regulation and production of neutrophils in response to host defense needs. Filgrastim has the same biologic activity as native G-CSF. The production of G-CSF can be induced by exposure to bacterial cell wall proteins, endotoxin, or proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., interleukin (IL)-1, IL-17, interferon gamma, or tumor necrosis factor). Cells responsible for the production of G-CSF include monocytes and macrophages, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and bone marrow stromal cells. Normally, G-CSF plasma levels are low or undetectable, but in response to bacterial stimuli, the levels are rapidly and markedly elevated. G-CSF acts on a specific receptor located on hematopoietic progenitor cells and mature neutrophils. G-CSF is also important for the survival of multilineage hematopoietic stem cells, but it cannot sustain their proliferation or differentiation.
Administration of exogenous G-CSF results in increased total neutrophil counts, including mature, banded, and precursor neutrophils, without increasing the number of basophils, eosinophils, or monocytes. The rise in neutrophils is due to increased production by the bone marrow and not increased survival of neutrophils. Morphological changes in neutrophils, including densely staining secondary cytoplasmic granules and Dohle bodies, have been observed following administration of exogenous G-CSF. The morphological changes are similar to those seen in neutrophils during infection and are consistent with changes seen in functionally "primed" neutrophils. G-CSF activates polymorphic neutrophils (PMNs) by mobilizing secretory vesicles and inducing the release of granules, which enhance bacterial cytotoxicity. G-CSF also affects selected neutrophil functions including enhanced phagocytic ability, priming of cellular metabolism associated with respiratory burst, antibody-dependent killing, and the increased expression of some functions associated with cell surface antigens. Exogenous G-CSF increases the number of circulating hematopoietic progenitor cells in a dose-dependent manner. Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell mobilization is thought to be related to the ability of G-CSF to downregulate endothelial intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and upregulate vascular cell adhesion molecule-1.
Filgrastim is administered intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously. Pharmacokinetic data are similar in healthy subjects and cancer patients. The volume of distribution averaged 150 mL/kg. Clearance is nonlinear and is dependent on drug concentration and neutrophil count. G-CSF receptor-mediated clearance is saturated by a high concentration of filgrastim and clearance is diminished by neutropenia. Filgrastim is cleared by the kidney. The elimination half-life is approximately 3.5 hours, and the clearance is about 0.5 to 0.7 mL/minute/kg following IV filgrastim administration. The half-life of filgrastim is similar following IV (231 minutes) or subcutaneous (210 minutes) administration. Additionally, single IV doses or daily IV doses resulted in comparable half-life values.
A dose-dependent increase in circulating neutrophil counts occurred following filgrastim administration (dose range, 1 to 70 mcg/kg/day) in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies. This dose-dependent neutrophil increase occurred with IV (1 to 70 mcg/kg twice daily), subcutaneous (1 to 3 mcg/kg once daily), or continuous subcutaneous infusion (3 to 11 mcg/kg/day) administration. In most cases, the neutrophil count returned to baseline within 4 days of stopping filgrastim.
Affected cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and drug transporters: None
-Route-Specific Pharmacokinetics
Intravenous Route
The steady-state concentration was achieved and there was no evidence of drug accumulation when filgrastim 20 mcg/kg/day was given as a continuous 24-hour IV infusion over 11 to 20 days.
Subcutaneous Route
The absolute bioavailability of filgrastim is 60% to 70% following subcutaneous administration. The peak concentration (Cmax) was 4 and 49 nanograms/mL following subcutaneous filgrastim doses of 3.45 mcg/kg and 11.5 mcg/kg, respectively. The time to peak concentration (Tmax) ranged from 2 to 8 hours.
-Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of filgrastim were similar in subjects with mild (Child-Pugh class A; n = 10) or moderate (Child-Pugh class B; n = 2) hepatic impairment compared with healthy volunteers (n = 12) in a pharmacokinetic study.
Renal Impairment
Higher filgrastim serum concentrations occurred in subjects with end-stage renal disease (n = 4) but not moderate renal impairment (n = 4) compared with healthy volunteers (n = 4) in a small pharmacokinetic study.
Pediatrics
The pharmacokinetic parameters of filgrastim in pediatric patients are similar to those in adults at weight-normalized doses.
Other
Radiation Exposure
The pharmacokinetic parameters of filgrastim have not been evaluated in human subjects acutely exposed to myelosuppressive doses of radiation. Using a population pharmacokinetic data model, the filgrastim exposure (AUC) is expected to be higher in humans with acute radiation exposure compared with irradiated non-human primates at a dose of 10 mcg/kg.