Sargramostim
Leukine (sargramostim) is a brand-name medication that contains the active ingredient sargramostim, a recombinant granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). It works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more white blood cells, helping to boost the immune system. This medication is primarily used in patients undergoing chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, or those with conditions causing low white blood cell counts.
Leukine is a white blood cell booster used to reduce infection risk in immunocompromised patients.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203878
- Generic
- Leukine
- 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.
Leukine is used to reduce the risk of serious infections in patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) following chemotherapy, to promote bone marrow recovery after autologous bone marrow transplantation, to mobilize stem cells for collection and subsequent transplantation, and to treat neutropenia in patients with HIV/AIDS.
Leukine contains sargramostim, a recombinant form of human GM-CSF that stimulates the bone marrow to produce white blood cells (granulocytes and macrophages), thereby enhancing the body's natural immune defense against infections.
Leukine is administered by injection, typically under the skin (subcutaneously) or into a vein (intravenously). Common side effects may include fever, fatigue, bone pain, and injection site reactions. Patients should be monitored for potential serious side effects including fluid retention, breathing difficulties, and cardiac events. Treatment should be supervised by a healthcare provider experienced in cancer or transplant care.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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