Filgrastim

I have to take filgrastim for 3 days..... 3 days after my Erubalin and I dread taking it because it causes me so much bone pain I cant move. I have spoken to my Oncologist abput ot and they agreed that I dont have to take it every week. The other thing is that my WBC count goes through the roof after a course of 3 and then goes back to a normal range so Im not sure why I have to take it at all.

Also my RBC count seems to be coming down too and I dont know if this is a side effect of the filgrastim? 

All of this is making me worry!! I have mychart too so I can log in and see all my blood results which makes me even more paranoid!!

Any advice?

  • Hello, and thank you for posting. 

    I am sorry you have all these concerns about your blood, but I'm not sure what as nurses we can advise. Do talk your concerns through with your doctor, specialist nurse (CNS) or someone in your care team, so that they understand the anxiety these blood results cause you.

    It is important to keep your mental health as well as physical health as good as possible when having treatment. It may be they sort out some counselling if you feel your anxiety is building.

    Filgrastin is often used alongside cancer treatment, again do talk its use through with your team. 

    It is so hard to have little control over your situation when in treatment, and being able to see your blood results all the time on your phone isn't always helpful for everyone as it is easy to be fixated. Distraction techniques or some mindfulness may help you to take things at a slower pace so do talk to your nurse about what other complementary therapies may be available at your hospital.

    Do remember, if and when your doctor or care team has any concerns or worries about your blood results, they will soon let you know.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Sarah.