GENERIC NAME: OPRELVEKIN - INJECTION (oh-PRELL-veh-kin)

BRAND NAME(S): Neumega

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to prevent low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) and to reduce the need for blood transfusions following cancer treatments.

HOW TO USE: Use exactly as directed by injection under the skin (SQ or SC) of the abdomen, thigh or hip once daily for 10 to 21 days, beginning after chemotherapy. Doses and duration of treatment are adjusted based on your condition. Learn all the preparation and administration instructions in the product package and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unclear on any information. Do not shake the vial. Do not use if the mixture is cloudy or colored. A puncture resistant container should be used for the disposal of used needles and syringes.

SIDE EFFECTS: Weakness, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, arm or leg swelling may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly: chest pain, rapid or irregular heart beats, fainting, muscle/bone pain, nervousness or difficulty sleeping, mouth sores, eye pain, vision changes, bruising or bleeding. Unlikely but report promptly: persistent sore throat/cough/ fever. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, facial swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your entire medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies), heart diseases, severe water retention, high blood pressure, eye disease (e.g., papilledema), brain tumors. Limit alcohol intake as it may enhance certain side effects of this medication. Since this drug may cause dizziness or fatigue, use extreme caution if operating machinery or performing hazardous tasks (e.g., driving). Use in children, especially those less than 12 years of age, is not recommended (except in approved clinical studies). Serious eye problems (papilledema) may occur more often in children. Caution is advised when this product is used in the elderly. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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