Oprelvekin

 
Generic Name: oprelvekin (injectable)

Brands: Neumega

---

What is the most important information I should know about Oprelvekin?

· Do not administer an injection if you are unsure how to properly do so, how much to inject, or how often to inject the medication. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to go over the instructions with you.

 

What is Oprelvekin?

· Oprelvekin (interleukin 11) is a protein that stimulates the production of platelets. Platelets are important for proper clotting of the blood and wound healing.

· Oprelvekin is used to increase platelets and decrease the need for platelet transfusions following treatment with certain cancer chemotherapy medications in patients who are at high risk of severely low platelet levels.

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

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Oprelvekin?

· Do not use Oprelvekin if you have an allergy to the medication or to the bacterium E. coli.

· Before using Oprelvekin, tell your doctor if you have     ·congestive heart failure;     ·irregular heartbeats;     ·pleural effusions (fluid around the lungs);     ·ascites (fluid in the abdomen);     ·papilledema (swelling of the optic nerve in the eye); or     ·kidney disease.

· You may not be able to use Oprelvekin or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· Oprelvekin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Oprelvekin will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Oprelvekin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is not known whether Oprelvekin passes into breast milk. Do not use Oprelvekin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I use Oprelvekin?

· Use Oprelvekin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Oprelvekin is administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection into the abdomen, thigh, hip, or upper arm. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist will give you specific instructions on how and where to inject the medication.

· Do not administer an injection if you are unsure how to properly do so, how much to inject, or how often to inject the medication. Call your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to go over the instructions with you.

· Do not inject Oprelvekin that is discolored or that has particles in it.

· Do not shake the vial of Oprelvekin. The medication can be gently swirled if mixing is needed.

· Rotate the injection site as directed.

· Vials of Oprelvekin do not contain a preservative and should be used to administer one dose only. Throw away any remaining solution. Do not re-enter the vial or reuse the needle or syringe.

· The solution should be injected as soon as possible after mixing. If necessary, it may be stored for up to 3 hours at room temperature (up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit/25 degrees Celsius) or in the refrigerator (between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit/2 and 8 degrees Celsius).

· Properly store and discard all syringes and needles.

· Your doctor may want you to have blood tests while using Oprelvekin to monitor effectiveness and possible side effects of the medication.

· Store unmixed Oprelvekin and diluent in the refrigerator between 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 and 8 degrees Celsius) away from light, moisture, and the reach of children. Avoid freezing the medication. Discard all unused medication on the expiration date.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of this medication.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention.

· Symptoms of an Oprelvekin overdose may include shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, or stroke.

 

What should I avoid while using Oprelvekin?

· Your doctor may advise a low-salt diet while taking Oprelvekin to reduce water retention. Talk to your doctor before making changes in your diet.

 

What are the possible side effects of Oprelvekin?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using Oprelvekin 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);     ·stroke;     ·difficulty breathing or shortness of breath;     ·chest pain;     ·irregular heartbeats;     ·redness of the eye(s);     ·dizziness or fainting; or     ·blurred vision.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Oprelvekin and talk to your doctor if you experience:     ·swelling of the hands, arms, legs, or feet; or     ·redness, swelling, or itching 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.

 

What other drugs will affect Oprelvekin?

· Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products during treatment with Oprelvekin.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Oprelvekin written for health professionals that you may read.

Print this page