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Printable Version Sargramostim Injection

Active Ingredients: Sargramostim
Other Names: Leukine Injection
Drug Class: Colony Stimulating Factor
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: No
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Sargramostim Injection?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Sargramostim Injection? (Back to top)
SARGRAMOSTIM, GM-CSF 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 providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • heart disease
  • irregular heartbeat
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease
  • lung or breathing disease, like asthma
  • retaining water
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to sargramostim, yeast products, benzyl alcohol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
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.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

  • lithium
  • medicines for cancer chemotherapy
  • steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers 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 side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • chest pain
  • fast, irregular heartbeat
  • feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
  • fever
  • flu-like symptoms
  • flushing
  • sudden weight gain
  • swelling of hands or feet

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • bone pain
  • diarrhea
  • muscle aches
  • pain, redness, or swelling at site where injected
  • stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
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.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Do not freeze. Do not shake. If you are giving this medicine at home, you will be instructed on how to store this medicine. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:October 21, 2008

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Sargramostim Injection

  Test Yourself! If you currently take Sargramostim Injection, do you know everything that you need to know?

  Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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