Plerixafor is used by patients with certain types of
cancer (non-Hodgkin's lymphoma-NHL, multiple myeloma-MM) to prepare them
for stem cell transplant. Stem cells, which are found mainly in the bone
marrow, turn into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Plerixafor is used to help stem cells move from the bone marrow to the
bloodstream so that the cells can be collected and stored. The stem cells
are then infused back into the patient after chemotherapy or
radiation.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by
your doctor, usually about 11 hours before the blood filtering procedure.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and weight. Your doctor will
also direct you to use another medication (G-CSF) to prepare for the
procedure. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions on how to use both
medications correctly.
Before using, check this product for particles or
discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before
injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the
injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time
to lessen injury under the skin. To lessen bruising, do not rub the
injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical
supplies safely.
Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gas, dizziness, or
pain/redness/swelling at injection site may occur. If any of these effects
last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- left upper abdominal pain
- left shoulder pain
- fainting
- easy bleeding/bruising
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using plerixafor, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana
(cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana
(cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using plerixafor. Plerixafor
may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before
you start this medication. Men and women using this medication should ask
about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for 1 week after
the last dose. If you or your partner becomes pregnant, talk to your doctor
right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not
recommended while using this medication and for 1 week after the last dose.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include:
fainting, severe dizziness.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood count)
should be done while you are using it. Keep all medical and lab
appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule.
Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away
from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.