Pegfilgrastim
Neulasta (pegfilgrastim) is a prescription medication classified as a colony-stimulating factor. It works by helping the bone marrow produce more white blood cells, specifically neutrophils, which are essential for fighting infections. This medication is primarily used in patients undergoing chemotherapy to reduce the risk of serious infections.
Neulasta is a biologic medication that boosts white blood cell production to prevent infections in chemotherapy patients.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 353501
- Generic
- Neulasta
- 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.
Neulasta is used to reduce the risk of infection in patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy. It helps prevent febrile neutropenia (fever with low white blood cell counts) and allows patients to maintain their chemotherapy schedule without dose reductions or delays.
Neulasta is a long-acting form of filgrastim that binds to specific receptors on bone marrow cells, stimulating the production, maturation, and activation of neutrophils. It is a pegylated formulation, which extends its half-life, allowing for less frequent dosing (typically once per chemotherapy cycle).
Neulasta is administered as a subcutaneous injection, often as an on-body injector placed on the day of chemotherapy. Common side effects include bone pain, typically in the lower back or hips. Rare but serious risks include splenic rupture and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Patients should report severe bone pain, fever, or breathing difficulties to their healthcare provider promptly.
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