Glenstim 6mg Injection consists of the active ingredient Pegylated granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. This is synthesized from the bacteria E.coli. It belongs to a category of proteins called cytokines and is similar to the natural protein produced by the body. It is a leukocyte growth factor indicated to reduce infections in patients receiving anti-cancer drugs with bone marrow suppressive properties. By reducing the risk of infections, Glenstim 6mg Injection can help cancer patients receive their full dose of chemotherapy on schedule, improving treatment outcomes. 

This medication is also prescribed to increase the survival of patients exposed to radiotherapy. Patients who receive Glenstim 6mg Injection may experience less fatigue, fewer days of fever and infection, and less time spent in the hospital. This can lead to an improved quality of life during cancer treatment. This can interfere with bone marrow function testing, such as aspiration and biopsy, and cause false-positive results. Patients should inform their healthcare provider that they receive Glenstim 6mg Injection before undergoing any bone marrow function testing.

• Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia
• Chemotherapy-induced fever
• Chemotherapy-induced infections

The therapeutic effect of the Glenstim 6mg Injection is to stimulate the production of neutrophils in the bone marrow. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that help to fight infections. Chemotherapy drugs can cause damage to the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in the number of neutrophils, which can increase the risk of infections. So this medication works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more neutrophils, which can help prevent infections in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. This can reduce the risk of infections, hospitalizations, and other complications associated with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia.

Inform your healthcare provider about all your medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Glenstim 6mg Injection and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.

• Store in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F).
• It should not be frozen.
• It should not be shaken before use.
• Keep it in its original packaging until it is ready to be used.
• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Glenstim 6mg Injection is administered as an injection under the skin. The injection should be given in the abdomen (at least 2 inches away from the belly button), the front of the thighs, or the upper arm. It is usually administered once per chemotherapy cycle. The medication should be administered at least 24 hours after the last dose of chemotherapy to allow for proper bone marrow recovery.

Like all medications, Glenstim 6mg Injection causes some side effects, although not everyone will experience them. 

Serious:

• Allergic reactions
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Splenic rupture
• Kidney damage
• Interstitial lung disease (ILD)

Common:

• Bone pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Injection site reactions

Remember always to follow your healthcare provider's instructions when taking Glenstim 6mg Injection or any medication. Patients should be monitored for signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling, and should seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Be aware of potential side effects and notify your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms. It should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before taking this medication. Always maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support your overall health and well-being.

1. Amgen Inc., [Revised on Feb 2021] [Accessed on 2 May 2023], https://www.pi.amgen.com/~/media/amgen/repositorysites/pi-amgen-com/neulasta/neulasta_pi_hcp_english.pdf
2. Accord Healthcare Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Mar 2021] [Accessed on 2nd May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9531.pdf
3. James L. Zehnder, Agents Used in Cytopenias; Hematopoietic Growth Factors, Lange’s Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 591-607
4. Maureen S. Phillips, Pegylated granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, 2003, 7(2), 238, https://cjon.ons.org/sites/default/files/5205800724MRU571_first.pdf