From 3/01 to 8/04 I took 300 mcg’s 2x weekly of Neupogen. Prior to the start of Neupogen, I had a wbc in the 1.9 range with an ANC below 400. I was symptomatic with repeated treatments required for opportunistic infections.
My quality of life was increased while on Neupogen, however there were side effects from the shots. Within 12 hours of a shot I would get headaches, large bone pain (mostly in the legs), and restless leg syndrome when inactive. Most of this was controlled with prescription strength and otc pain meds (non-narcotic). For my purposes, the treatment was worth the aggravations. The side effects didn’t stop me from life’s enjoyments, where as the low counts did.
In August I stopped taking Neupogen as my WBC had increased to 17. Since stopping Neupogen, my wbc has leveled out and maintained at just below normal levels. At the same time my hgb dropped to 8 and plts to 40. Starting in October 04 my plts have recovered, however I now take Procrit for my hgb. I don’t believe (either does my doc) that the changes in my counts and marrow profile are associated with Neupogen use.
Hope this information helps in your decision-making.
Best Regards,
Pam L.