Filgrastim - any experiences?

I've unfortunately been admitted twice since starting my ABVD treatment due to potential infection risk - luckily tests showed negative for infection but none the less I was pumped with antibiotics as my neutrophils were 0.7.

I'm now down to 0.5 - expected levels for lymphoma therapy- but have been put on filgrastim as a precaution.

I have to say the side effects aren't pleasant, all my bones ache like mad and I'm not allowed pain killers incase they mask a fever.

Anyone had experiences of this or similar drugs used to stimulate neutrophils growth?

Anything alternative work for the pain?

I've got a nasty feeling I'm going to be on them every other week until my chemo ends - February next year all being well! That's a long time!

Wishing you all well

Rose

Parents
  • Hi Rose

    I’m sorry to hear, that you have bone pains with the injection. I too am on Filgrastim injections and find the side effects awful. I have nausea, some bone pain, but my main problem is, that it gives me an awful taste in my mouth and my heart/pulse races like mad. 

    I have been told that i have to have them for the rest of my chemo. I have three more to go and I’m dreading in. 

    What I found helpful is using mouthwash and drinking Twinings Rasberry and echinacea tea. I also mix mixed berry juice with some water, as I need some nice taste in my mouth.

    i hope this helps, and you feel better soon.

    Take care

    Cilly

Reply
  • Hi Rose

    I’m sorry to hear, that you have bone pains with the injection. I too am on Filgrastim injections and find the side effects awful. I have nausea, some bone pain, but my main problem is, that it gives me an awful taste in my mouth and my heart/pulse races like mad. 

    I have been told that i have to have them for the rest of my chemo. I have three more to go and I’m dreading in. 

    What I found helpful is using mouthwash and drinking Twinings Rasberry and echinacea tea. I also mix mixed berry juice with some water, as I need some nice taste in my mouth.

    i hope this helps, and you feel better soon.

    Take care

    Cilly

Children
  • I guess I'm not helping those that can't  take pain killers, but the only thing that worked for me was Zappain. Cocodomol only worked for my foot pain with MS,  but Zappain cured the cancer bone pain. I know they're the same tablet, and can't explain why one worked on one pain and the other on a different pain, but they work for me. What do you have to loose?! Good luck