The U.S. FDA-approved Plerixafor is used to collect blood stem cells. Additionally, it is also used in lymphoma (WBC cancer), multiple myeloma (plasma cell cancer in bone marrow), or solid tumor On 15th December 2008. 

Plerixafor is used to collect blood stem cells for collection, storage, and transplantation., lymphoma and multiple myeloma in adults, lymphoma or solid tumors in children (aged between 1 to 18). 

Plerixafor injection is administered as a subcutaneous injection (under your skin). If this injection is recommended for you, it will be given by a healthcare professional. Do not self-administer. Your physician will choose the dosage and administration frequency based on the medical condition because it differs for each person.

The most common side effects of Plerixafor are diarrhea, redness or irritation in the injection site, low RBC count (anemia), constipation, indigestion, dry mouth, numbness, joint pains, sweating, difficulty sleeping, and headache.

Serious side effects while taking Plerixafor are rashes, swelling around the eyes, difficulty in breathing, faintness, upper left abdomen pain, and left shoulder pain.

Before starting the treatment, notify your doctor if you have high WBC counts, low platelet counts, or a history of usual lightheaded or fainting, especially before injection. It is not advised to take this medicine for stem cell mobilization if you have leukemia. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Plerixafor or any other ingredients of this medicine. Report to your doctor if you have kidney disorders.

Before starting the treatment, your doctor may monitor your liver function. your doctor may adjust the dose of the medicine if you have existing kidney disease. Your doctor may also perform a regular blood test to monitor the blood cell count. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant or if you breastfeeding. It is recommended to use effective contraception.

Report to your doctor if you experience any side effects like rashes or swelling around your eyes, a change in breathing (lack of oxygen), or pain in the upper left abdomen or left shoulder. Keep Plerixafor injection out of sight and reach of children. This medicine does not require any special storage conditions. Do not double the dose if missed the turn. Contact your doctor immediately if you double dose and for more concerns. 

1. Genzyme Corporation, U.S. Food & Drug Administration [Revised on Dec 2017] [Accessed on 13th Apr 2021] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/022311s018lbl.pdf
2. Seacross Pharmaceuticals Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Jan 2022] [Accessed on 20th April 2023],  Plerixafor Seacross 20 mg/ml solution for injection - Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) - (emc) (medicines.org.uk)
3. James L. Zehnder, Agents Used in Cytopenias; Hematopoietic Growth Factors, Lange’s Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 591- 607.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.