Pegasta Injection

Product Introduction

Pegasta Injection contains Pegfilgrastim (6mg), a long-acting form of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). It is primarily used to stimulate the production of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, which play a crucial role in fighting infections. This medication is commonly prescribed to patients undergoing chemotherapy, as these treatments often lead to a drop in white blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infections.

Manufactured with advanced biotechnology, Pegasta Injection is administered as a subcutaneous injection and offers a convenient, once-per-chemotherapy-cycle dosing. It enhances the body’s defense system, reducing the likelihood of febrile neutropenia—a serious complication of chemotherapy.

Patients using Pegasta Injection benefit from improved immunity, allowing them to continue their cancer treatment with minimal interruptions. This medication is widely prescribed by oncologists and hematologists to manage and prevent infections in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

Uses of Pegasta Injection

Pegasta Injection is mainly prescribed for:

• Prevention of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia: This condition occurs when chemotherapy reduces the white blood cell count, making the body more prone to infections.
• Bone marrow stimulation: Pegfilgrastim promotes the production of neutrophils, which are essential for fighting bacterial and fungal infections.
• Reduction in infection risks: Patients undergoing cancer treatments often experience weakened immune systems. Pegasta Injection helps in reducing the incidence and duration of infections.
• Used in stem cell transplantation: It aids in mobilizing stem cells for collection before a bone marrow transplant.

Benefits of Pegasta Injection

1. Prevents Severe Infections

Pegasta Injection significantly lowers the risk of febrile neutropenia, a condition where low neutrophil levels lead to life-threatening infections. By stimulating neutrophil production, the body can better defend itself against bacterial and fungal infections.

2. Reduces Hospitalization and Antibiotic Use

Since Pegfilgrastim boosts white blood cell count, patients receiving chemotherapy have fewer chances of developing infections that require hospital admission or antibiotic treatment. This not only improves patient health but also reduces medical costs.

3. Enhances Treatment Continuation

Many cancer treatments are delayed or modified due to neutropenia. Pegasta Injection helps patients complete their chemotherapy cycles on schedule without interruptions, ensuring maximum effectiveness of their cancer therapy.

4. Once-Per-Cycle Dosing

Unlike daily G-CSF injections, Pegfilgrastim is long-acting and requires just one dose per chemotherapy cycle, making it more convenient for patients.

5. Boosts Immune Response

By increasing the number of healthy white blood cells, Pegasta Injection strengthens the immune system, allowing patients to recover faster and avoid treatment delays.

Side Effects of Pegasta Injection

Like all medications, Pegasta Injection may cause some side effects, although not everyone experiences them. These effects are generally mild and manageable.

Common Side Effects:

• Bone pain: One of the most frequently reported side effects. It occurs due to increased bone marrow activity. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort.
• Headache
• Fatigue and weakness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or pain)

Serious but Rare Side Effects:

• Spleen enlargement or rupture: Symptoms include left upper abdominal pain, dizziness, and feeling full quickly. Seek medical attention if these symptoms occur.
• Allergic reactions: Some patients may develop rash, itching, breathing difficulty, or swelling of the face and throat.
• Lung problems: Rare cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have been reported. Symptoms include breathlessness and cough.
• Capillary leak syndrome: A rare condition causing fluid leakage from blood vessels, leading to swelling and low blood pressure.

If you experience any severe side effects, consult your doctor immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How does Pegasta Injection work?

Pegasta Injection contains Pegfilgrastim, a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) that encourages the bone marrow to produce more neutrophils, reducing the risk of infections in chemotherapy patients.

Q2. How is Pegasta Injection administered?

It is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, usually in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. A healthcare professional typically administers it, but in some cases, trained patients or caregivers may do it at home.

Q3. When should Pegasta Injection be taken?

Pegasta Injection is usually given at least 24 hours after chemotherapy to help the body recover neutrophil levels. It should not be given on the same day as chemotherapy.

Q4. Can I take Pegasta Injection at home?

Yes, in some cases, patients can self-administer Pegasta Injection at home after receiving proper instructions from their healthcare provider.

Q5. What precautions should I take while using Pegasta Injection?

• Inform your doctor if you have sickle cell disease, kidney problems, or lung issues.
• Avoid using Pegasta Injection if you are allergic to Pegfilgrastim or Filgrastim.
• Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor your white blood cell count.
• Stay hydrated and follow a healthy diet to support your immune system.