Palifermin
Kepivance is a brand-name medication containing palifermin, a keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) that stimulates the growth and repair of epithelial cells lining the mouth and digestive tract. It is specifically used to reduce the incidence and duration of severe oral mucositis in patients with hematologic cancers undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy prior to bone marrow transplantation.
Kepivance is used to prevent severe mouth sores in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation before bone marrow transplants.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 545354
- Generic
- Kepivance
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Kepivance is indicated to reduce the incidence and duration of severe oral mucositis (painful mouth ulcers) in patients with hematologic malignancies who are receiving myelotoxic chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy followed by bone marrow transplantation.
Palifermin is a recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor that binds to the KGF receptor on epithelial cells, stimulating their proliferation, differentiation, and survival. This promotes the repair and protection of the epithelial lining of the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract.
Kepivance is administered by intravenous injection, typically for three consecutive days before and after chemotherapy/radiation. It should not be given within 24 hours of myelotoxic chemotherapy to avoid increased toxicity. Common side effects may include fever, rash, itching, taste alterations, and joint pain. Patients should be monitored for potential oral or skin effects.
Official drug label
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If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy