What Is Zarxio?

Filgrastim is also known by the brand name Neupogen. Other available biosimilars include Zarxio, Granix, and Nivestym. Neupogen was the first medication produced based on the active element, filgrastim. These drugs have been used successfully for cancer patients to stimulate the growth of white blood cells.

Based on Neupogen, Zarxio became the first biosimilar product available in the United States in March 2015. Thus, Zarxio is similar to Neupogen in its mechanism of action, administration route, strength, and dosage. The difference between the formulation of the two agents is in one inactive component.

Precauții

Unless approved by your physician, Zarxio is generally not recommended in:

• Patients who have an allergy to human granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (CFS) such as filgrastim or pegfilgrastim products: Allergic reactions can cause a rash over the whole body, shortness of breath, wheezing, dizziness, swelling around your mouth or eyes, fast heart rate, and sweating. If you have any of these symptoms, stop using Zarxio, and call your doctor or get emergency help right away.
• Patients with sickle cell disorder: Using Zarxio can lead to a condition called sickle cell crisis, which may be life-threatening.
• Patients receiving radiation therapy: Zarxio may increase the risk of developing a precancerous condition called myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or a type of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Pregnancy and Zarxio

Pregnant women, women who are planning to become pregnant, and breastfeeding women must consult a physician prior to initiating Zarxio. The risk to the fetus or baby is unknown.