Hi Bobby,
I hope you don't mind that I started your thread as its own topic..
Joe, Neulasta isn't a chemo, but a drug to help keep the blood counts healthy enough during chemo.
These types of drugs are notorious for causing pain, feverishness and general, serious malaise. But they make it possible to administer otherwise harmful amounts of chemo without risking neutropenia and serious infection.
Be sure to report any and all side effects right away. Go to the ER if you're having an allergic reaction, but I don't think that is the case here. Call the doctor.
Some product info about side effects:
What are the possible side effects of pegfilgrastim?
• Your spleen may become enlarged and, in rare instances, may rupture while taking pegfilgrastim. The spleen is located in the upper left section of your stomach area. Call your doctor right away if you have pain in your left upper stomach area or left shoulder tip area. This pain could mean your spleen is enlarged or ruptured.
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek emergency medical treatment or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· fever or chills;
· sore throat or congestion;
· redness, pain, or swelling around a wound or sore;
· difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; or
· left upper stomach or shoulder pain.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use pegfilgrastim and talk to your doctor if you experience:
· muscle, joint, or bone pain;
· fatigue;
· headache;
· weakness;
· dizziness;
· sores in the mouth or throat; or
· nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect pegfilgrastim?
• Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you
· are taking lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid, Lithane, others); or
· are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy.
• You may not be able to use pegfilgrastim or you may require special monitoring if you are taking any of the medications listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with pegfilgrastim. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.
I hope you feel better soon.
Wendy