PEG Grafeel 6mg Injection

1. Product Introduction

PEG Grafeel 6mg Injection is a long-acting form of recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) that contains Pegfilgrastim. It is used to prevent neutropenia (a condition marked by a low count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell) in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Neutropenia significantly increases the risk of infections, especially during cancer treatment when the immune system is weakened.

Pegfilgrastim is a pegylated version of filgrastim, meaning it has a polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecule attached to extend its duration of action in the body. This means PEG Grafeel only needs to be administered once per chemotherapy cycle, offering better convenience and compliance than daily G-CSF injections.

PEG Grafeel is available in a pre-filled syringe, making it easy to administer under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It plays a critical role in protecting patients from life-threatening infections during cancer treatment by supporting the production of neutrophils in the bone marrow.

2. Uses of This Medicine

PEG Grafeel 6mg Injection is primarily used for:

• Prevention of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia: To reduce the duration and severity of neutropenia in cancer patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy.

• Prevention of febrile neutropenia: It helps reduce the risk of fever associated with low white blood cell counts.

• Supporting immune function during cancer treatment: Especially important in cancers like breast cancer, lung cancer, lymphoma, and others where chemotherapy suppresses the bone marrow.

While it is not used to treat cancer directly, PEG Grafeel plays a vital supportive role in enabling patients to tolerate aggressive cancer therapies more safely.

3. Benefits of This Medicine

PEG Grafeel offers several significant benefits for patients undergoing chemotherapy:

✅ Reduces Risk of Infections: By increasing neutrophil counts, it lowers the chances of life-threatening bacterial and fungal infections.

✅ Fewer Hospitalizations: Patients using PEG Grafeel often avoid hospital admissions due to infection-related complications.

✅ Once-per-Cycle Dosing: Unlike filgrastim which is taken daily, Pegfilgrastim requires only one injection per chemotherapy cycle, enhancing convenience.

✅ Maintains Chemotherapy Schedule: Helps prevent dose delays or reductions in chemotherapy caused by low white blood cell counts.

✅ Improves Quality of Life: With fewer infections and complications, patients often feel better and experience less treatment-related stress.

✅ Well-Tolerated: Most patients tolerate Pegfilgrastim well, and serious side effects are rare when administered correctly.

4. Side Effects

Like all medications, PEG Grafeel 6mg Injection may cause some side effects. Most are mild and manageable, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects:

• 🔹 Bone pain (most common, especially in the lower back, hips, or ribs)

• 🔹 Headache

• 🔹 Fatigue

• 🔹 Nausea

• 🔹 Redness or pain at the injection site

Less Common Side Effects:

• 🔹 Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle pain)

• 🔹 Diarrhea or constipation

• 🔹 Joint pain

Serious Side Effects (Rare):

• 🔹 Splenic rupture (sudden pain in the left upper abdomen or shoulder)

• 🔹 Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)

• 🔹 Acute respiratory distress

• 🔹 Capillary leak syndrome (causes swelling and low blood pressure)

Always inform your doctor if you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms. In rare cases, emergency treatment may be required.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is PEG Grafeel used for?
A: It is used to prevent neutropenia and related infections in patients receiving chemotherapy.

Q2. How is PEG Grafeel given?
A: It is administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, usually once per chemotherapy cycle by a healthcare professional.

Q3. When is PEG Grafeel administered after chemotherapy?
A: It is typically given at least 24 hours after the completion of chemotherapy.

Q4. Can I self-inject PEG Grafeel?
A: While it is possible with proper training, it is usually administered by a healthcare provider to ensure correct usage and to monitor for side effects.

Q5. How quickly does PEG Grafeel start working?
A: It begins stimulating the production of neutrophils within 24 hours and reaches peak activity within 3-5 days.