The maximum tolerated dose of NEUPOGEN has not been determined. In NEUPOGEN clinical trials of patients with cancer receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy‚ WBC counts > 100‚000/mm³ have been reported in less than 5% of patients‚ but were not associated with any reported adverse clinical effects. Patients in the BMT studies received up to 138 mcg/kg/day without toxic effects‚ although there was a flattening of the dose response curve above daily doses of greater than 10 mcg/kg/day.
NEUPOGEN is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious allergic reactions to human granulocyte colony-stimulating factors such as filgrastim or pegfilgrastim.
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer Receiving Myelosuppressive ChemotherapyThe following adverse reaction data in Table 2 are from three randomized, placebo-controlled studies in patients with:
A total of 451 patients were randomized to receive subcutaneous NEUPOGEN 230 mcg/m² (Study 1), 240 mcg/m² (Study 2) or 4 or 5 mcg/kg/day (Study 3) (n = 294) or placebo (n = 157). The patients in these studies were median age 61 (range 29 to 78) years and 64% were male. The ethnicity was 95% Caucasian, 4% African American, and 1% Asian.
Table 2: Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer
Receiving Myelosuppressive Chemotherapy (With ≥ 5% Higher Incidence in
NEUPOGEN Compared to Placebo)
| System Organ Class Preferred Term | NEUPOGEN (N = 294) |
Placebo (N = 157) |
| Blood and lymphatic system disorders | ||
| Thrombocytopenia | 38% | 29% |
| Gastrointestinal disorders | ||
| Nausea | 43% | 32% |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | ||
| Pyrexia | 48% | 29% |
| Chest pain | 13% | 6% |
| Pain | 12% | 6% |
| Fatigue | 20% | 10% |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | ||
| Back pain | 15% | 8% |
| Arthralgia | 9% | 2% |
| Bone pain | 11% | 6% |
| Pain in extremity* | 7% | 3% |
| Nervous system disorders | ||
| Dizziness | 14% | 3% |
| Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders | ||
| Cough | 14% | 8% |
| Dyspnea | 13% | 8% |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders | ||
| Rash | 14% | 5% |
| Investigations | ||
| Blood lactate dehydrogenase increased | 6% | 1% |
| Blood alkaline phosphatase increased | 6% | 1% |
| *Percent difference (NEUPOGEN – Placebo) was 4%. | ||
Adverse events with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to placebo and associated with the sequelae of the underlying malignancy or cytotoxic chemotherapy delivered included anemia, constipation, diarrhea, oral pain, vomiting, asthenia, malaise, edema peripheral, hemoglobin decreased, decreased appetite, oropharyngeal pain, and alopecia.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Acute Myeloid LeukemiaAdverse reaction data below are from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in patients with AML (Study 4) who received an induction chemotherapy regimen of intravenous daunorubicin days 1, 2, and 3; cytosine arabinoside days 1 to 7; and etoposide days 1 to 5 and up to 3 additional courses of therapy (induction 2, and consolidation 1, 2) of intravenous daunorubicin, cytosine arabinoside, and etoposide. The safety population included 518 patients randomized to receive either 5 mcg/kg/day NEUPOGEN (n = 257) or placebo (n = 261). The median age was 54 (range 16 to 89) years and 54% were male.
Adverse reactions with ≥ 2% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to placebo included epistaxis, back pain, pain in extremity, erythema, and rash maculo-papular.
Adverse events with ≥ 2% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to placebo and associated with the sequelae of the underlying malignancy or cytotoxic chemotherapy included diarrhea, constipation, and transfusion reaction.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer Undergoing Bone Marrow TransplantationThe following adverse reaction data are from one randomized, no treatment-controlled study in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or lymphoblastic lymphoma receiving high-dose chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide or cytarabine, and melphalan) and total body irradiation (Study 5) and one randomized, no treatment controlled study in patients with Hodgkin's disease (HD) and NHL undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and autologous bone marrow transplantation (Study 6). Patients receiving autologous bone marrow transplantation only were included in the analysis. A total of 100 patients received either 30 mcg/kg/day as a 4 hour infusion (Study 5) or 10 mcg/kg/day or 30 mcg/kg/day as a 24 hour infusion (Study 6) NEUPOGEN (n = 72), no treatment control or placebo (n = 28). The median age was 30 (range 15 to 57) years, 57% were male.
Adverse reactions with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to patients receiving no NEUPOGEN included rash and hypersensitivity.
Adverse reactions in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy followed by autologous BMT with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to patients receiving no NEUPOGEN included thrombocytopenia, anemia, hypertension, sepsis, bronchitis, and insomnia.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer Undergoing Autologous Peripheral Blood Progenitor Cell CollectionThe adverse reaction data in Table 3 are from a series of 7 trials in patients with cancer undergoing mobilization of autologous peripheral blood progenitor cells for collection by leukapheresis. Patients (n = 166) in all these trials underwent a similar mobilization/collection regimen: NEUPOGEN was administered for 6 to 8 days‚ in most cases the apheresis procedure occurred on days 5‚ 6, and 7. The dosage of NEUPOGEN ranged between 5 to 30 mcg/kg/day and was administered subcutaneously by injection or continuous infusion. The median age was 39 (range 15 to 67) years, and 48% were male.
Table 3: Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer
Undergoing Autologous PBPC in the Mobilization Phase ( ≥ 5% Incidence in
NEUPOGEN Patients)
| System Organ Class Preferred Term | Mobilization Phase (N = 166) |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | |
| Bone pain | 30% |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | |
| Pyrexia | 16% |
| Investigations | |
| Blood alkaline phosphatase increased | 11% |
| Nervous system disorders | |
| Headache | 10% |
The following adverse reaction data were identified in a randomized, controlled study in patients with SCN receiving NEUPOGEN (Study 7). 123 patients were randomized to a 4 month observation period followed by subcutaneous NEUPOGEN treatment or immediate subcutaneous NEUPOGEN treatment. The median age was 12 years (range 7 months to 76 years) and 46% were male. The dosage of NEUPOGEN was determined by the category of neutropenia. Initial dosage of NEUPOGEN:
The dosage was increased incrementally to 12 mcg/kg/day divided 2 times per day if there was no response.
Adverse reactions with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to patients receiving no NEUPOGEN included arthralgia, bone pain, back pain, muscle spasms, musculoskeletal pain, pain in extremity, splenomegaly, anemia, upper respiratory tract infection, and urinary tract infection (upper respiratory tract infection and urinary tract infection were higher in the NEUPOGEN arm, total infection related events were lower in NEUPOGEN treated patients), epistaxis, chest pain, diarrhea, hypoesthesia, and alopecia.
ImmunogenicityAs with all therapeutic proteins, there is a potential for immunogenicity. The incidence of antibody development in patients receiving NEUPOGEN has not been adequately determined. While available data suggest that a small proportion of patients developed binding antibodies to filgrastim, the nature and specificity of these antibodies has not been adequately studied. In clinical studies using NEUPOGEN, the incidence of antibodies binding to filgrastim was 3% (11/333). In these 11 patients, no evidence of a neutralizing response was observed using a cell-based bioassay. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay, and the observed incidence of antibody positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors including timing of sampling, sample handling, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. Therefore, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to filgrastim with the incidence of antibodies to other products may be misleading.
Cytopenias resulting from an antibody response to exogenous growth factors have been reported on rare occasions in patients treated with other recombinant growth factors.
Postmarketing ExperienceThe following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of NEUPOGEN. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
NEUPOGEN is indicated to decrease the incidence of infection‚ as manifested by febrile neutropenia‚ in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies receiving myelosuppressive anti-cancer drugs associated with a significant incidence of severe neutropenia with fever.
Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia Receiving Induction Or Consolidation ChemotherapyNEUPOGEN is indicated for reducing the time to neutrophil recovery and the duration of fever, following induction or consolidation chemotherapy treatment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Patients With Cancer Undergoing Bone Marrow TransplantationNEUPOGEN is indicated to reduce the duration of neutropenia and neutropenia-related clinical sequelae‚ e.g.‚ febrile neutropenia, in patients with nonmyeloid malignancies undergoing myeloablative chemotherapy followed by bone marrow transplantation.
Patients Undergoing Autologous Peripheral Blood Progenitor Cell Collection And TherapyNEUPOGEN is indicated for the mobilization of autologous hematopoietic progenitor cells into the peripheral blood for collection by leukapheresis.
Patients With Severe Chronic NeutropeniaNEUPOGEN is indicated for chronic administration to reduce the incidence and duration of sequelae of neutropenia (e.g.‚ fever‚ infections‚ oropharyngeal ulcers) in symptomatic patients with congenital neutropenia‚ cyclic neutropenia‚ or idiopathic neutropenia.
Patients Acutely Exposed To Myelosuppressive Doses Of Radiation (Hematopoietic Syndrome of Acute Radiation Syndrome)NEUPOGEN is indicated to increase survival in patients acutely exposed to myelosuppressive doses of radiation.
In phase 1 studies involving 96 patients with various nonmyeloid malignancies‚ NEUPOGEN administration resulted in a dose-dependent increase in circulating neutrophil counts over the dose range of 1 to 70 mcg/kg/day. This increase in neutrophil counts was observed whether NEUPOGEN was administered intravenous (1 to 70 mcg/kg twice daily)‚ subcutaneous (1 to 3 mcg/kg once daily)‚ or by continuous subcutaneous infusion (3 to 11 mcg/kg/day). With discontinuation of NEUPOGEN therapy‚ neutrophil counts returned to baseline in most cases within 4 days. Isolated neutrophils displayed normal phagocytic (measured by zymosan-stimulated chemoluminescence) and chemotactic (measured by migration under agarose using N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine [fMLP] as the chemotaxin) activity in vitro.
The absolute monocyte count was reported to increase in a dose-dependent manner in most patients receiving NEUPOGEN; however‚ the percentage of monocytes in the differential count remained within the normal range. Absolute counts of both eosinophils and basophils did not change and were within the normal range following administration of NEUPOGEN. Increases in lymphocyte counts following NEUPOGEN administration have been reported in some normal subjects and patients with cancer.
White blood cell (WBC) differentials obtained during clinical trials have demonstrated a shift towards earlier granulocyte progenitor cells (left shift)‚ including the appearance of promyelocytes and myeloblasts‚ usually during neutrophil recovery following the chemotherapy-induced nadir. In addition‚ Dohle bodies‚ increased granulocyte granulation‚ and hypersegmented neutrophils have been observed. Such changes were transient and were not associated with clinical sequelae, nor were they necessarily associated with infection.
Filgrastim exhibits nonlinear pharmacokinetics. Clearance is dependent on filgrastim concentration and neutrophil count: G-CSF receptor-mediated clearance is saturated by high concentration of NEUPOGEN and is diminished by neutropenia. In addition, filgrastim is cleared by the kidney.
Subcutaneous administration of 3.45 mcg/kg and 11.5 mcg/kg of filgrastim resulted in maximum serum concentrations of 4 and 49 ng/mL‚ respectively‚ within 2 to 8 hours. After intravenous administration, the volume of distribution averaged 150 mL/kg and the elimination half-life was approximately 3.5 hours in both normal subjects and cancer subjects. Clearance rates of filgrastim were approximately 0.5 to 0.7 mL/minute/kg. Single parenteral doses or daily intravenous doses‚ over a 14-day period‚ resulted in comparable half-lives. The half-lives were similar for intravenous administration (231 minutes‚ following doses of 34.5 mcg/kg) and for subcutaneous administration (210 minutes‚ following NEUPOGEN dosages of 3.45 mcg/kg). Continuous 24-hour intravenous infusions of 20 mcg/kg over an 11 to 20-day period produced steady-state serum concentrations of filgrastim with no evidence of drug accumulation over the time period investigated. The absolute bioavailability of filgrastim after subcutaneous administration is 60% to 70%.
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. The potential risk to the fetus is unknown. Reports in the scientific literature have described transplacental passage of NEUPOGEN in pregnant women when administered ≤ 30 hours prior to preterm delivery ( ≤ 30 weeks gestation). NEUPOGEN should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Effects of filgrastim on prenatal development have been studied in rats and rabbits. No malformations were observed in either species. Filgrastim has been shown to have adverse effects in pregnant rabbits at doses 2 to 10 times higher than the human doses. In pregnant rabbits showing signs of maternal toxicity, reduced embryo-fetal survival (at 20 and 80 mcg/kg/day) and increased abortions (at 80 mcg/kg/day) were observed. In pregnant rats, no maternal or fetal effects were observed at doses up to 575 mcg/kg/day.
Offspring of rats administered filgrastim during the peri-natal and lactation periods exhibited a delay in external differentiation and growth retardation ( ≥ 20 mcg/kg/day) and slightly reduced survival rate (100 mcg/kg/day).
Vial:
Prefilled Syringe:
Single-dose‚ preservative-free vials containing 300 mcg/mL of filgrastim. Dispensing packs of 10 vials (NDC 55513-530-10).
Single-dose‚ preservative-free vials containing 480 mcg/1.6 mL (300 mcg/mL) of filgrastim. Dispensing packs of 10 vials (NDC 55513-546-10).
Prefilled Syringes (SingleJect®)Single-dose‚ preservative-free, prefilled syringe with 27 gauge, ½ inch needle with an UltraSafe® Needle Guard, containing 300 mcg/0.5 mL of filgrastim.
Pack of 1 prefilled syringe (NDC 55513-924-91).
Pack of 10 prefilled syringes (NDC 55513-924-10).
Single-dose‚ preservative-free, prefilled syringe with 27 gauge, ½ inch needle with an UltraSafe® Needle Guard, containing 480 mcg/0.8 mL of filgrastim.
Pack of 1 prefilled syringe (NDC 55513-209-91).
Pack of 10 prefilled syringes (NDC 55513-209-10).
The needle cap of the prefilled syringe contains dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex).
Store NEUPOGEN at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) in the carton to protect from light. Do not leave NEUPOGEN in direct sunlight. Avoid freezing; if frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before administration. Discard NEUPOGEN if frozen more than once. Avoid shaking. Transport via a pneumatic tube has not been studied.
Manufactured by: Amgen Inc., One Amgen Center Drive Thousand Oaks, California 91320-1799 U.S.A. Revised: July 2015
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
PRECAUTIONS Splenic RuptureSplenic rupture, including fatal cases, has been reported following the administration of NEUPOGEN. Evaluate patients who report left upper abdominal or shoulder pain for an enlarged spleen or splenic rupture.
Acute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAcute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been reported in patients receiving NEUPOGEN. Evaluate patients who develop fever and lung infiltrates or respiratory distress for ARDS. Discontinue NEUPOGEN in patients with ARDS.
Serious Allergic ReactionsSerious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported in patients receiving NEUPOGEN. The majority of reported events occurred upon initial exposure. Provide symptomatic treatment for allergic reactions. Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in patients receiving NEUPOGEN can recur within days after the discontinuation of initial anti-allergic treatment. Permanently discontinue NEUPOGEN in patients with serious allergic reactions. NEUPOGEN is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious allergic reactions to human granulocyte colony-stimulating factors such as filgrastim or pegfilgrastim.
Sickle Cell DisordersSickle cell crisis, in some cases fatal, has been reported with the use of NEUPOGEN in patients with sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease.
GlomerulonephritisGlomerulonephritis has occurred in patients receiving NEUPOGEN. The diagnoses were based upon azotemia, hematuria (microscopic and macroscopic), proteinuria, and renal biopsy. Generally, events of glomerulonephritis resolved after dose reduction or discontinuation of NEUPOGEN. If glomerulonephritis is suspected, evaluate for cause. If causality is likely, consider dose-reduction or interruption of NEUPOGEN.
Alveolar Hemorrhage And HemoptysisAlveolar hemorrhage manifesting as pulmonary infiltrates and hemoptysis requiring hospitalization have been reported in NEUPOGEN-treated healthy donors undergoing peripheral blood progenitor cell (PBPC) collection mobilization. Hemoptysis resolved with discontinuation of NEUPOGEN. The use of NEUPOGEN for PBPC mobilization in healthy donors is not an approved indication.
Capillary Leak SyndromeCapillary leak syndrome (CLS) has been reported after G-CSF administration, including NEUPOGEN, and is characterized by hypotension, hypoalbuminemia, edema and hemoconcentration. Episodes vary in frequency, severity and may be life-threatening if treatment is delayed. Patients who develop symptoms of capillary leak syndrome should be closely monitored and receive standard symptomatic treatment, which may include a need for intensive care.
Patients With Severe Chronic NeutropeniaConfirm the diagnosis of SCN before initiating NEUPOGEN therapy.
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) have been reported to occur in the natural history of congenital neutropenia without cytokine therapy. Cytogenetic abnormalities, transformation to MDS, and AML have also been observed in patients treated with NEUPOGEN for SCN. Based on available data including a postmarketing surveillance study, the risk of developing MDS and AML appears to be confined to the subset of patients with congenital neutropenia. Abnormal cytogenetics and MDS have been associated with the eventual development of myeloid leukemia. The effect of NEUPOGEN on the development of abnormal cytogenetics and the effect of continued NEUPOGEN administration in patients with abnormal cytogenetics or MDS are unknown. If a patient with SCN develops abnormal cytogenetics or myelodysplasia‚ the risks and benefits of continuing NEUPOGEN should be carefully considered.
ThrombocytopeniaThrombocytopenia has been reported in patients receiving NEUPOGEN. Monitor platelet counts.
Leukocytosis Patients with Cancer Receiving Myelosuppressive ChemotherapyWhite blood cell counts of 100‚000/mm³ or greater were observed in approximately 2% of patients receiving NEUPOGEN at dosages above 5 mcg/kg/day. In patients with cancer receiving NEUPOGEN as an adjunct to myelosuppressive chemotherapy‚ to avoid the potential risks of excessive leukocytosis‚ it is recommended that NEUPOGEN therapy be discontinued if the ANC surpasses 10‚000/mm³ after the chemotherapy-induced ANC nadir has occurred. Monitor CBCs at least twice weekly during therapy. Dosages of NEUPOGEN that increase the ANC beyond 10‚000/mm³ may not result in any additional clinical benefit. In patients with cancer receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy‚ discontinuation of NEUPOGEN therapy usually resulted in a 50% decrease in circulating neutrophils within 1 to 2 days‚ with a return to pretreatment levels in 1 to 7 days.
Peripheral Blood Progenitor Cell Collection and TherapyDuring the period of administration of NEUPOGEN for PBPC mobilization in patients with cancer, discontinue NEUPOGEN if the leukocyte count rises to > 100,000/mm³.
Cutaneous VasculitisCutaneous vasculitis has been reported in patients treated with NEUPOGEN. In most cases‚ the severity of cutaneous vasculitis was moderate or severe. Most of the reports involved patients with SCN receiving long-term NEUPOGEN therapy. Hold NEUPOGEN therapy in patients with cutaneous vasculitis. NEUPOGEN may be started at a reduced dose when the symptoms resolve and the ANC has decreased.
Potential Effect On Malignant CellsNEUPOGEN is a growth factor that primarily stimulates neutrophils. The granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) receptor through which filgrastim acts has also been found on tumor cell lines. The possibility that filgrastim acts as a growth factor for any tumor type cannot be excluded. The safety of filgrastim in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and myelodysplasia has not been established.
When NEUPOGEN is used to mobilize PBPC‚ tumor cells may be released from the marrow and subsequently collected in the leukapheresis product. The effect of reinfusion of tumor cells has not been well studied‚ and the limited data available are inconclusive.
Simultaneous Use With Chemotherapy And Radiation Therapy Not RecommendedThe safety and efficacy of NEUPOGEN given simultaneously with cytotoxic chemotherapy have not been established. Because of the potential sensitivity of rapidly dividing myeloid cells to cytotoxic chemotherapy‚ do not use NEUPOGEN in the period 24 hours before through 24 hours after the administration of cytotoxic chemotherapy.
The safety and efficacy of NEUPOGEN have not been evaluated in patients receiving concurrent radiation therapy. Avoid the simultaneous use of NEUPOGEN with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Nuclear ImagingIncreased hematopoietic activity of the bone marrow in response to growth factor therapy has been associated with transient positive bone-imaging changes. This should be considered when interpreting bone-imaging results.
Patient Counseling InformationAdvise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION).
Advise patients of the following risks and potential risks with NEUPOGEN:
The carcinogenic potential of filgrastim has not been studied. Filgrastim failed to induce bacterial gene mutations in either the presence or absence of a drug metabolizing enzyme system. Filgrastim had no observed effect on the fertility of male or female rats at doses up to 500 mcg/kg.
Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Pregnancy Category CThere are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. The potential risk to the fetus is unknown. Reports in the scientific literature have described transplacental passage of NEUPOGEN in pregnant women when administered ≤ 30 hours prior to preterm delivery ( ≤ 30 weeks gestation). NEUPOGEN should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Effects of filgrastim on prenatal development have been studied in rats and rabbits. No malformations were observed in either species. Filgrastim has been shown to have adverse effects in pregnant rabbits at doses 2 to 10 times higher than the human doses. In pregnant rabbits showing signs of maternal toxicity, reduced embryo-fetal survival (at 20 and 80 mcg/kg/day) and increased abortions (at 80 mcg/kg/day) were observed. In pregnant rats, no maternal or fetal effects were observed at doses up to 575 mcg/kg/day.
Offspring of rats administered filgrastim during the peri-natal and lactation periods exhibited a delay in external differentiation and growth retardation ( ≥ 20 mcg/kg/day) and slightly reduced survival rate (100 mcg/kg/day).
Nursing MothersIt is not known whether NEUPOGEN is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk‚ caution should be exercised if NEUPOGEN is administered to women who are breastfeeding.
Pediatric UseIn patients with cancer receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy‚ 15 pediatric patients median age 2.6 (range 1.2 to 9.4) years with neuroblastoma were treated with myelosuppressive chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide‚ cisplatin‚ doxorubicin‚ and etoposide) followed by subcutaneous NEUPOGEN at doses of 5, 10, or 15 mcg/kg/day for 10 days (n = 5/dose) (Study 8). The pharmacokinetics of NEUPOGEN in pediatric patients after chemotherapy are similar to those in adults receiving the same weight-normalized doses, suggesting no age-related differences in the pharmacokinetics of NEUPOGEN. In this population‚ NEUPOGEN was well tolerated. There was one report of palpable splenomegaly and one report of hepatosplenomegaly associated with NEUPOGEN therapy; however‚ the only consistently reported adverse event was musculoskeletal pain‚ which is no different from the experience in the adult population.
The safety and effectiveness of NEUPOGEN have been established in pediatric patients with SCN. In a phase 3 study (Study 7) to assess the safety and efficacy of NEUPOGEN in the treatment of SCN, 123 patients with a median age of 12 years (range 7 months to 76 years) were studied. Of the 123 patients, 12 were infants (7 months to 2 years of age), 49 were children (2 to 12 years of age), and 9 were adolescents (12 to 16 years of age). Additional information is available from a SCN postmarketing surveillance study, which includes long-term follow-up of patients in the clinical studies and information from additional patients who entered directly into the postmarketing surveillance study. Of the 731 patients in the surveillance study, 429 were pediatric patients < 18 years of age (range 0.9 to 17).
Long-term follow-up data from the postmarketing surveillance study suggest that height and weight are not adversely affected in patients who received up to 5 years of NEUPOGEN treatment. Limited data from patients who were followed in the phase 3 study for 1.5 years did not suggest alterations in sexual maturation or endocrine function.
Pediatric patients with congenital types of neutropenia (Kostmann's syndrome, congenital agranulocytosis, or Schwachman-Diamond syndrome) have developed cytogenetic abnormalities and have undergone transformation to MDS and AML while receiving chronic NEUPOGEN treatment. The relationship of these events to NEUPOGEN administration is unknown.
The use of NEUPOGEN to increase survival in pediatric patients acutely exposed to myelosuppressive doses of radiation is based on studies conducted in animals and clinical data supporting the use of NEUPOGEN in other approved indications.
Geriatric UseAmong 855 subjects enrolled in 3 randomized, placebo-controlled trials of NEUPOGEN-treated patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy, there were 232 subjects age 65 or older, and 22 subjects age 75 or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects.
Clinical studies of NEUPOGEN in other approved indications (i.e., BMT recipients, PBPC mobilization, and SCN) did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and older to determine whether elderly subjects respond differently from younger subjects.
The recommended starting dosage of NEUPOGEN is 5 mcg/kg/day‚ administered as a single daily injection by subcutaneous injection‚ by short intravenous infusion (15 to 30 minutes)‚ or by continuous intravenous infusion. Obtain a complete blood count (CBC) and platelet count before instituting NEUPOGEN therapy and monitor twice weekly during therapy. Consider dose escalation in increments of 5 mcg/kg for each chemotherapy cycle‚ according to the duration and severity of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) nadir. Recommend stopping NEUPOGEN if the ANC increases beyond 10‚000/mm³.
Administer NEUPOGEN at least 24 hours after cytotoxic chemotherapy. Do not administer NEUPOGEN within the 24-hour period prior to chemotherapy. A transient increase in neutrophil count is typically seen 1 to 2 days after initiation of NEUPOGEN therapy. Therefore, to ensure a sustained therapeutic response‚ administer NEUPOGEN daily for up to 2 weeks or until the ANC has reached 10‚000/mm³ following the expected chemotherapy-induced neutrophil nadir. The duration of NEUPOGEN therapy needed to attenuate chemotherapy-induced neutropenia may be dependent on the myelosuppressive potential of the chemotherapy regimen employed.
Dosage in Patients with Cancer Undergoing Bone Marrow TransplantationThe recommended dosage of NEUPOGEN following bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is 10 mcg/kg/day given as an intravenous infusion no longer than 24 hours. Administer the first dose of NEUPOGEN at least 24 hours after cytotoxic chemotherapy and at least 24 hours after bone marrow infusion. Monitor CBCs and platelet counts frequently following marrow transplantation.
During the period of neutrophil recovery‚ titrate the daily dosage of NEUPOGEN against the neutrophil response (see Table 1).
Table 1: Recommended Dosage Adjustments During
Neutrophil Recovery in Patients with Cancer Following BMT
| Absolute Neutrophil Count | NEUPOGEN Dosage Adjustment |
| When ANC greater than 1000/mm³ for 3 consecutive days | Reduce to 5 mcg/kg/daya |
| Then, if ANC remains greater than 1000/mm³ for 3 more consecutive days | Discontinue NEUPOGEN |
| Then, if ANC decreases to less than 1000/mm³ | Resume at 5 mcg/kg/day |
| a If ANC decreases to less than 1000/mm³ at any time during the 5 mcg/kg/day administration‚ increase NEUPOGEN to 10 mcg/kg/day‚ and then follow the above steps. |
The recommended dosage of NEUPOGEN for the mobilization of autologous peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPC) is 10 mcg/kg/day given by subcutaneous injection. Administer NEUPOGEN for at least 4 days before the first leukapheresis procedure and continue until the last leukapheresis. Although the optimal duration of NEUPOGEN administration and leukapheresis schedule have not been established‚ administration of NEUPOGEN for 6 to 7 days with leukaphereses on days 5‚ 6‚ and 7 was found to be safe and effective. Monitor neutrophil counts after 4 days of NEUPOGEN‚ and discontinue NEUPOGEN if the white blood cell (WBC) count rises to greater than 100‚000/mm³.
Dosage In Patients With Severe Chronic NeutropeniaPrior to starting NEUPOGEN in patients with suspected chronic neutropenia, confirm the diagnosis of severe chronic neutropenia (SCN) by evaluating serial CBCs with differential and platelet counts‚ and evaluating bone marrow morphology and karyotype. The use of NEUPOGEN prior to confirmation of a correct diagnosis of SCN may impair diagnostic efforts and may thus impair or delay evaluation and treatment of an underlying condition‚ other than SCN‚ causing the neutropenia.
The recommended starting dosage in patients with Congenital Neutropenia is 6 mcg/kg as a twice daily subcutaneous injection and the recommended starting dosage in patients with Idiopathic or Cyclic Neutropenia is 5 mcg/kg as a single daily subcutaneous injection.
Dosage Adjustments in Patients with Severe Chronic NeutropeniaChronic daily administration is required to maintain clinical benefit. Individualize the dosage based on the patient's clinical course as well as ANC. In the SCN postmarketing surveillance study, the reported median daily doses of NEUPOGEN were: 6 mcg/kg (congenital neutropenia), 2.1 mcg/kg (cyclic neutropenia), and 1.2 mcg/kg (idiopathic neutropenia). In rare instances, patients with congenital neutropenia have required doses of NEUPOGEN greater than or equal to 100 mcg/kg/day.
Monitor CBCs for Dosage AdjustmentsDuring the initial 4 weeks of NEUPOGEN therapy and during the 2 weeks following any dosage adjustment‚ monitor CBCs with differential and platelet counts. Once a patient is clinically stable‚ monitor CBCs with differential and platelet counts monthly during the first year of treatment. Thereafter, if the patient is clinically stable, less frequent routine monitoring is recommended.
Dosage In Patients Acutely Exposed To Myelosuppressive Doses Of Radiation (Hematopoietic Syndrome of Acute Radiation Syndrome)The recommended dose of NEUPOGEN is 10 mcg/kg as a single daily subcutaneous injection for patients exposed to myelosuppressive doses of radiation. Administer NEUPOGEN as soon as possible after suspected or confirmed exposure to radiation doses greater than 2 gray (Gy).
Estimate a patient's absorbed radiation dose (i.e., level of radiation exposure) based on information from public health authorities, biodosimetry if available, or clinical findings such as time to onset of vomiting or lymphocyte depletion kinetics.
Obtain a baseline CBC and then serial CBCs approximately every third day until the ANC remains greater than 1,000/mm³ for 3 consecutive CBCs. Do not delay administration of NEUPOGEN if a CBC is not readily available.
Continue administration of NEUPOGEN until the ANC remains greater than 1,000/mm³ for 3 consecutive CBCs or exceeds 10,000/mm³ after a radiation-induced nadir.
Important Administration InstructionsNEUPOGEN is supplied in single-dose vials (for subcutaneous use or intravenous infusion) and single-dose prefilled syringes (for subcutaneous use). Prior to use‚ remove the vial or prefilled syringe from the refrigerator and allow NEUPOGEN to reach room temperature for a minimum of 30 minutes and a maximum of 24 hours. Discard any vial or prefilled syringe left at room temperature for greater than 24 hours. Visually inspect NEUPOGEN for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration (the solution is clear and colorless). Do not administer NEUPOGEN if particulates or discoloration are observed.
Discard unused portion of NEUPOGEN in vials or prefilled syringes; do not re-enter the vial. Do not save unused drug for later administration.
Subcutaneous InjectionInject NEUPOGEN subcutaneously in the outer area of upper arms, abdomen, thighs, or upper outer areas of the buttock. If patients or caregivers are to administer NEUPOGEN, instruct them in appropriate injection technique and ask them to follow the subcutaneous injection procedures in the Patient Information.
Administration Instructions for the Prefilled SyringePersons with latex allergies should not administer the NEUPOGEN prefilled syringe, because the needle cap contains dry natural rubber (derived from latex).
Administration Instructions for Dilution (Vial Only)If required for intravenous administration‚ NEUPOGEN (vial only) may be diluted in 5% Dextrose Injection, USP from a concentration of 300 mcg/mL to 5 mcg/mL (do not dilute to a final concentration less than 5 mcg/mL). NEUPOGEN diluted to concentrations from 5 mcg/mL to 15 mcg/mL should be protected from adsorption to plastic materials by the addition of Albumin (Human) to a final concentration of 2 mg/mL. When diluted in 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 5% Dextrose plus Albumin (Human)‚ NEUPOGEN is compatible with glass bottles‚ polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyolefin intravenous bags‚ and polypropylene syringes. Do not dilute with saline at any time because the product may precipitate.
Diluted NEUPOGEN solution can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours. This 24 hour time period includes the time during room temperature storage of the infusion solution and the duration of the infusion.
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer Receiving Myelosuppressive ChemotherapyThe following adverse reaction data in Table 2 are from three randomized, placebo-controlled studies in patients with:
A total of 451 patients were randomized to receive subcutaneous NEUPOGEN 230 mcg/m² (Study 1), 240 mcg/m² (Study 2) or 4 or 5 mcg/kg/day (Study 3) (n = 294) or placebo (n = 157). The patients in these studies were median age 61 (range 29 to 78) years and 64% were male. The ethnicity was 95% Caucasian, 4% African American, and 1% Asian.
Table 2: Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer
Receiving Myelosuppressive Chemotherapy (With ≥ 5% Higher Incidence in
NEUPOGEN Compared to Placebo)
| System Organ Class Preferred Term | NEUPOGEN (N = 294) |
Placebo (N = 157) |
| Blood and lymphatic system disorders | ||
| Thrombocytopenia | 38% | 29% |
| Gastrointestinal disorders | ||
| Nausea | 43% | 32% |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | ||
| Pyrexia | 48% | 29% |
| Chest pain | 13% | 6% |
| Pain | 12% | 6% |
| Fatigue | 20% | 10% |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | ||
| Back pain | 15% | 8% |
| Arthralgia | 9% | 2% |
| Bone pain | 11% | 6% |
| Pain in extremity* | 7% | 3% |
| Nervous system disorders | ||
| Dizziness | 14% | 3% |
| Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders | ||
| Cough | 14% | 8% |
| Dyspnea | 13% | 8% |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders | ||
| Rash | 14% | 5% |
| Investigations | ||
| Blood lactate dehydrogenase increased | 6% | 1% |
| Blood alkaline phosphatase increased | 6% | 1% |
| *Percent difference (NEUPOGEN – Placebo) was 4%. | ||
Adverse events with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to placebo and associated with the sequelae of the underlying malignancy or cytotoxic chemotherapy delivered included anemia, constipation, diarrhea, oral pain, vomiting, asthenia, malaise, edema peripheral, hemoglobin decreased, decreased appetite, oropharyngeal pain, and alopecia.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Acute Myeloid LeukemiaAdverse reaction data below are from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in patients with AML (Study 4) who received an induction chemotherapy regimen of intravenous daunorubicin days 1, 2, and 3; cytosine arabinoside days 1 to 7; and etoposide days 1 to 5 and up to 3 additional courses of therapy (induction 2, and consolidation 1, 2) of intravenous daunorubicin, cytosine arabinoside, and etoposide. The safety population included 518 patients randomized to receive either 5 mcg/kg/day NEUPOGEN (n = 257) or placebo (n = 261). The median age was 54 (range 16 to 89) years and 54% were male.
Adverse reactions with ≥ 2% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to placebo included epistaxis, back pain, pain in extremity, erythema, and rash maculo-papular.
Adverse events with ≥ 2% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to placebo and associated with the sequelae of the underlying malignancy or cytotoxic chemotherapy included diarrhea, constipation, and transfusion reaction.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer Undergoing Bone Marrow TransplantationThe following adverse reaction data are from one randomized, no treatment-controlled study in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or lymphoblastic lymphoma receiving high-dose chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide or cytarabine, and melphalan) and total body irradiation (Study 5) and one randomized, no treatment controlled study in patients with Hodgkin's disease (HD) and NHL undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and autologous bone marrow transplantation (Study 6). Patients receiving autologous bone marrow transplantation only were included in the analysis. A total of 100 patients received either 30 mcg/kg/day as a 4 hour infusion (Study 5) or 10 mcg/kg/day or 30 mcg/kg/day as a 24 hour infusion (Study 6) NEUPOGEN (n = 72), no treatment control or placebo (n = 28). The median age was 30 (range 15 to 57) years, 57% were male.
Adverse reactions with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to patients receiving no NEUPOGEN included rash and hypersensitivity.
Adverse reactions in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy followed by autologous BMT with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to patients receiving no NEUPOGEN included thrombocytopenia, anemia, hypertension, sepsis, bronchitis, and insomnia.
Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer Undergoing Autologous Peripheral Blood Progenitor Cell CollectionThe adverse reaction data in Table 3 are from a series of 7 trials in patients with cancer undergoing mobilization of autologous peripheral blood progenitor cells for collection by leukapheresis. Patients (n = 166) in all these trials underwent a similar mobilization/collection regimen: NEUPOGEN was administered for 6 to 8 days‚ in most cases the apheresis procedure occurred on days 5‚ 6, and 7. The dosage of NEUPOGEN ranged between 5 to 30 mcg/kg/day and was administered subcutaneously by injection or continuous infusion. The median age was 39 (range 15 to 67) years, and 48% were male.
Table 3: Adverse Reactions in Patients with Cancer
Undergoing Autologous PBPC in the Mobilization Phase ( ≥ 5% Incidence in
NEUPOGEN Patients)
| System Organ Class Preferred Term | Mobilization Phase (N = 166) |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | |
| Bone pain | 30% |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | |
| Pyrexia | 16% |
| Investigations | |
| Blood alkaline phosphatase increased | 11% |
| Nervous system disorders | |
| Headache | 10% |
The following adverse reaction data were identified in a randomized, controlled study in patients with SCN receiving NEUPOGEN (Study 7). 123 patients were randomized to a 4 month observation period followed by subcutaneous NEUPOGEN treatment or immediate subcutaneous NEUPOGEN treatment. The median age was 12 years (range 7 months to 76 years) and 46% were male. The dosage of NEUPOGEN was determined by the category of neutropenia. Initial dosage of NEUPOGEN:
The dosage was increased incrementally to 12 mcg/kg/day divided 2 times per day if there was no response.
Adverse reactions with ≥ 5% higher incidence in NEUPOGEN patients compared to patients receiving no NEUPOGEN included arthralgia, bone pain, back pain, muscle spasms, musculoskeletal pain, pain in extremity, splenomegaly, anemia, upper respiratory tract infection, and urinary tract infection (upper respiratory tract infection and urinary tract infection were higher in the NEUPOGEN arm, total infection related events were lower in NEUPOGEN treated patients), epistaxis, chest pain, diarrhea, hypoesthesia, and alopecia.
ImmunogenicityAs with all therapeutic proteins, there is a potential for immunogenicity. The incidence of antibody development in patients receiving NEUPOGEN has not been adequately determined. While available data suggest that a small proportion of patients developed binding antibodies to filgrastim, the nature and specificity of these antibodies has not been adequately studied. In clinical studies using NEUPOGEN, the incidence of antibodies binding to filgrastim was 3% (11/333). In these 11 patients, no evidence of a neutralizing response was observed using a cell-based bioassay. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay, and the observed incidence of antibody positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors including timing of sampling, sample handling, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. Therefore, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to filgrastim with the incidence of antibodies to other products may be misleading.
Cytopenias resulting from an antibody response to exogenous growth factors have been reported on rare occasions in patients treated with other recombinant growth factors.
Postmarketing ExperienceThe following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of NEUPOGEN. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
No information provided.
