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SargramostimPronounced"sarr-GRAM-oh-stim" Common brand names:Leukine UsesSargramostim is a man-made version of a certain natural substance made in your body. It is used to help your body make more white blood cells. White blood cells are important to help you fight off infections. Sargramostim is given to people whose ability to make white blood cells is reduced (for instance, due to chemotherapy or exposure to large amounts of radiation). It is also used in certain treatment procedures (such as bone marrow/stem cell transplant). How to Use This MedicationRead the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using sargramostim and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medication is given by injection under the skin or into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. The dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, lab tests, and response to treatment. If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product package. Do not shake the medication. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. If you are injecting this drug under the skin, first clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject sargramostim into skin that is bruised, tender, red, hard, or that has scars or stretch marks. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of this drug. These reactions usually occur with the first dose of each treatment period. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of infusion reactions such as flushing, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or fast heartbeat. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely. If you are receiving cancer chemotherapy or radiation treatment, you should not use this medication within 24 hours before or 24 hours after chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Ask your doctor for specific directions about when to use this medication. |