Sulasta

Sulasta is a brand name used for a pegylated recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) product in some markets. The active ingredient, pegfilgrastim, is a long-acting G-CSF that stimulates the production of neutrophils by binding to the G-CSF receptor on bone marrow progenitor cells, promoting their maturation and release.

Medical uses commonly include reducing the duration of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and lowering the incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy. Pegfilgrastim may also be used to mobilize hematopoietic stem cells for collection in certain transplantation settings, depending on local guidelines and approvals.

Administration is by subcutaneous injection as a single dose per chemotherapy cycle. It is typically given 24 hours after chemotherapy, with a usual dosing approach of a fixed 6 mg dose in adults, though local labeling may vary and pediatric dosing may differ.

Safety and adverse effects: Common side effects include bone pain, injection-site reactions, headache, and fatigue. More serious but rare risks include splenic rupture, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute gout in susceptible individuals, hypersensitivity reactions, and Serious adverse events related to stem cell mobilization. Caution is advised in patients with sickle cell disease due to potential crises.

Regulatory status and naming vary by country, and Sulasta may not be available or labeled the same everywhere. Healthcare providers should refer to local prescribing information for specific indications, dosing, contraindications, and safety data.