Neulasta is a prescription medicine used to help protect patients receiving chemotherapy from infections. Some chemotherapy treatments can lower the number of white blood cells in the body, which are important for fighting infections. Neulasta works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more white blood cells, helping the immune system recover more quickly after chemotherapy.
Neulasta is usually given as an injection under the skin, either by a healthcare professional or through a special on-body injector that automatically delivers the medicine about a day after chemotherapy. It is typically given once per chemotherapy cycle.
Common side effects may include bone pain, muscle aches, or fatigue. These side effects are usually manageable, and your healthcare team can recommend treatments to help relieve discomfort. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts and overall health to make sure Neulasta is working safely and effectively for you.
Neulasta does not treat cancer itself, but it plays an important role in supporting your body during cancer treatment by lowering the chance of serious infections and helping you stay on schedule with chemotherapy.