Neupogen is a prescribed drug that was approved for cancer patients with bone marrow damage due to chemotherapy or radiotherapy by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in 1991. It is a specific type of cytokine (hormone-like protein) that stimulates the growth of white blood cells. It can also be prescribed to people who have been exposed to a high dosage of radiation in an emergency.

Neupogen can speed up the process of white blood cell creation, reducing the time that the cancer patient is vulnerable to infection.

It is given through an injection under the skin or through intravenous infusion by a health care professional.

It is safe for most adults, but children and pregnant women should take Neupogen® with caution. The side of effects of the drug may include fever, diarrhea, skin rash and weakness. The most common side effect is mild to moderate bone pain. Do not take the medicine if you are allergic to E. coli-derived proteins or any component of filgrastim.

If you have a reaction to the drug, call your doctor or 911 immediately for medical attention. Do not drive yourself to the hospital as you may become very ill on your way.

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)