Leukine (Sargramostim) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Leukine

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Leukine

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Leukine Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Leukine

Generic Name: sargramostim (Pronunciation: sar grah MOSS tim)

What is sargramostim (Leukine)?

Sargramostim is a protein that stimulates the production of white blood cells. Sargramostim is similar a substance in the body called granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF).

Sargramostim is used to increase white blood cells and decrease the risk of infection in conditions such as cancer, bone marrow transplant, and pre-chemotherapy blood cell collection.

Sargramostim may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of sargramostim (Leukine)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using sargramostim and seek emergency medical treatment or contact your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
dizziness or fainting;
a fever (over 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius);
signs of infection including chills, sore throat, or congestion or redness, pain, or swelling around a wound or sore;
swelling of the feet or lower legs;
sudden weight gain (5 pounds or more); or
chest pain, chest discomfort, or a fast, irregular pulse.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use sargramostim and talk to your doctor if you experience:

bone pain;
"flu-like" feeling;
chills;
muscle aching or weakness;
tiredness;
headache;
diarrhea;
nausea, upset stomach, or loss of appetite;
rash; or
swelling, redness, or pain at the injection site.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about sargramostim (Leukine)?

Do not administer an injection if you are unsure how it should be injected, how much to inject, or how often to inject the medication. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to go over the instructions with you.

Contact your doctor if you develop a fever, chills, sore throat, congestion, or other signs of infection or illness while using sargramostim.

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