Cancer Treatment With Leukine

Leukine is a retail form of the drug sargramostim. It is commonly used in cancer patients with acute myelogenous leukemia who experience severe or life-threatening infections in the aftermath of chemotherapy.

The Facts

Leukine belongs to a class of compounds called colony stimulating factors. It does not directly fight leukemia; rather, it supports the body by stimulating the production of white blood cells in the bone marrow.

Other Uses In Cancer Treatment

In addition to use after chemotherapy, Leukine for cancer treatment may be used before and/or after transplantation of blood stem cells, as well as after transplantation of bone marrow.

Administering Leukine

Leukine is typically injected under the skin or given intravenously. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), liquid forms of the drug were temporarily withdrawn from the market in 2008 due to a rise in adverse reactions among users. Freeze-dried (lyophilized) forms of the product are still available.

Potential Side Effects

Side effects of Leukine use may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention. These include allergic reactions, chest pain, bloody urine, black stools, severe stomach pain and persistent severe fever.

Additional Considerations

With first use, Leukine may trigger reactions including fainting, irregular heartbeat and breathing difficulties. These side effects typically do not return with continued use.

References

• DailyMed - U.S. National Library of Medicine
• Chemocare.com
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Resources

• Drugs. com - Leukine