What is Plerixafor?
Plerixafor is a treatment for patients who suffer from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or multiple myeloma. Plerixafor assists the bone marrow in releasing stem cells into the bloodstream to allow them to be retrieved and reintroduced to your body. Plerixafor can be used for other purposes that are not mentioned in this guideline for medication.
Side effects of Plerixafor
Seek medical attention immediately in the event that you exhibit symptoms or warning signs of an allergic reaction, such as asthma, hives, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
Inform your family members immediately when you experience any serious side effects, like:
- Bleeding or bruising that is an uncommon weakness
- Feeling like you might pass out; or
- Extreme discomfort in your left upper stomach, which can spread onto the shoulder blade.
Common side effects of plerixafor include:
- Inflammation in the area where the medication was injected;
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
- Headache, dizziness;
- Tiredness; or
- Joint pain.
This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Other side effects could occur. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Do not use it if you're expecting. Use effective birth control and inform your physician if you become pregnant while you are receiving treatment.
Before taking this medication
You shouldn't be treated with plerixafor if you are allergic to it or if you suffer from leukemia. Speak to your doctor if you are suffering from kidney disease.Plerixafor could cause harm to a baby who is not yet born. Use effective birth control to stop pregnancy while taking plerixafor for at least 1 week following the last dose. Consult your physician when you begin to become pregnant. It is possible that you will need to take an unfavorable pregnancy test prior to commencing this treatment.It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication.
What is Plerixafor?
Plerixafor is injected beneath the skin. The healthcare professional will give you the injection. You will be closely monitored for at least 30 minutes in order to ensure you don't experience an allergic reaction. Prior to receiving plerixafor, you will receive a medication known as a granulocyte (GRAN-yoo-loe-site) colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). G-CSF aids your body in producing stem cells as well as white blood cells that help strengthen an immune system.Plerixafor is a part of the G-CSF that causes the granulocytes and stem cells that are produced by bone marrow cells to move into the bloodstream, where they are extracted from blood that is taken from your vein. When your blood is taken, it will be processed to ensure that the necessary stem cells, granulocytes, and other granulocytes will be separated from the other components of your blood. The stem cells as well as granulocytes later become "transplanted" back into your body. Your blood needs to be checked frequently throughout your treatment.
Do I be concerned if I miss a dose?
Since you'll receive plerixafor in a medical setting, you're not likely to skip any doses.
What will happen if I take excessively?
Because the medication is prescribed by a medical specialist in a medical setting, the risk of overdose is less likely to occur.
Some symptoms of an overdose include stomach discomfort, extreme dizziness, and falling asleep.
What should be avoided?
Follow your doctor's advice regarding any restrictions regarding beverages, food, or activities.
Interaction with other drugs
Other medications can affect plerixafor, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your physician your current medications and any medication you begin or stop taking.
