Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factors (G-CSFs)

Question 1

what doe G-CSFs do

Answer 1

stimulate WBC production

Question 2

when are G-CSFs given and what do they reduce

Answer 2

given PROPHYLACTICALLY after chemotherapy to reduce DURATION and SEVERITY of NEUTROPENIA

note: pts @ high risk of developing febrile neutropenia should receive G-CSF PRIOR to their 1st cycle of chemo and have their risk re-evaluated with each subsequent cycle

Question 3

list G-CSF drugs

Answer 3

Filgrastim (Neupogen)

Pegfilgrastim (Neulasta, Neulasta Onpro): PEGYLATED form of filgrastim has EXTENDED HALF LIFE*

Question 4

filgrastim (Neupogen)

Q: route
Q: frequency

Answer 4

1. IV or SC
2. DAILY

Question 5

Pegfilgrastim (Neulasta)

Q: route
Q: frequency

Answer 5

1. SC
2. ONCE PER CHEMOTHERAPY CYCLE

Question 6

side effects of G-CSFs (main ones)

Answer 6

BONE PAIN, glomerulonephritis, SPLENIC RUPTURE

Question 7

Monitoring parameters for G-CSFs

Answer 7

CBC w/DIFFERENTIAL, UPPER ABDOMINAL PAIN

Question 8

how do you store G-CSFs

Answer 8

store in REFRIGERATOR, protect vials and syringes from light

Question 9

when can you administer 1st dose of G-CSFs

Answer 9

administer 1st dose NO SOONER than 24H AFTER CHEMOTHERAPY (can be up to 96H after)

Question 10

which G-CSF is an ON-BODY INJECTOR applied to the abdomen or back of the arm after chemotherapy

Answer 10

pegfilgrastim (Neulasta, Neulasta Onpro)

Question 11

when does pegfilgrastim (Neulasta) DELIVER the dose of pegfilgrastim

Answer 11

~27 hours after application