A colony stimulating factor - It is used to increase the number of blood cells after chemotherapy or... more
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Special Alerts:
[Posted 01/24/2008; Selected revisions 6/25/08] Bayer and FDA informed healthcare professionals of the market withdrawal of the current liquid formulation of sargramostim (Leukine), a growth factor that helps fight infection and disease in appropriate patients by enhancing immune cell function. The product was withdrawn because of an upward trend in spontaneous reports of adverse reactions, including syncope (fainting), which are temporally correlated with a change in the formulation of liquid Leukine to include edetate disodium (EDTA). The upward trend in adverse reaction reporting rates has not been observed with the use of lyophilized Leukine.
Bayer has since reformulated liquid Leukine and this EDTA-free Leukine preparation is now available through normal distribution channels. Healthcare professionals should immediately stop using liquid Leukine preparations containing EDTA and return unused vials to the manufacturer. For more information visit the FDA website at: http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2008/safety08.htm#Leukine and http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2008/Leukine_DHCP_01-23-2008.pdf and the manufacturer’s website at: http://www.leukine.com.
SARGRAMOSTIM, GM-CSF (sar GRAM oh stim) helps the body make more blood cells. It is used to increase the number of blood cells after chemotherapy or with a blood or bone marrow transplant.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
This medicine is for injection under the skin or into a vein. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Do not shake the solution. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. This medicine is not approved for use in newborns.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor for regular check ups. You will need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.
This medicine may make you feel flushed, faint, dizzy, or weak on your first dose. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not get better.
Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor about birth control. Call your doctor right away if you think that you may be pregnant.
Last Updated: August 19, 2009
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