Ristempa - Patient leaflet, side effects, dosage
Sources: Original PDF (ema.europa.eu)
The drug is classified in the ATC tree:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ristempa and what is it used for?
Ristempa, containing pegfilgrastim, is a medication used to help increase the production of white blood cells in patients undergoing chemotherapy. It helps reduce the risk of infection by boosting your immune system.
How does Ristempa work?
Ristempa works by stimulating the bone marrow to produce more neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections. It mimics a natural growth factor in your body.
Who can benefit from Ristempa treatment?
Patients receiving certain types of chemotherapy that can lower white blood cell counts may benefit from Ristempa. It's particularly useful for those at risk of febrile neutropenia.
What are the common side effects of Ristempa?
Common side effects include bone pain, fatigue, headache, and mild injection site reactions. Most side effects are manageable and resolve on their own.
How is Ristempa administered?
Ristempa is given as an injection under the skin, typically once per chemotherapy cycle. Your healthcare provider will instruct you on how to administer it or provide it in a clinical setting.
Can I use Ristempa if I have a history of allergies?
If you have a known allergy to pegfilgrastim or any other components in Ristempa, you should not use this medicine. Always inform your doctor about your allergies.
Is it safe to use Ristempa during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Ristempa should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. It's not recommended while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and affect the baby.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Ristempa?
If you miss a dose of Ristempa, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Do not double up on doses to make up for missed ones.
Are there any interactions with other medications I should be aware of before taking Ristempa?
Yes, some medications may interact with Ristempa. It's essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Can I take pain relievers while using Ristempa?
You can generally take pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for bone pain associated with Ristempa, but consult your doctor first to ensure it's appropriate for your situation.
How long does it take for Ristempa to start working?
Ristempa usually begins working within 24 hours after injection, but it may take several days for white blood cell counts to rise significantly.
What should I do if I experience severe side effects?
If you experience severe side effects like significant pain or signs of infection (fever, chills), contact your healthcare provider immediately for advice and possible treatment adjustments.
Can anyone receive Ristempa therapy?
Not everyone can receive Ristempa. Your doctor will evaluate your health status and cancer treatment plan to determine if it's suitable for you.
What monitoring is required while using Ristempa?
Your doctor will monitor your white blood cell counts regularly during treatment with Ristempa through blood tests to ensure its effectiveness and adjust treatment if necessary.
Will using Ristempa affect my cancer treatment schedule?
Ristemp may help maintain your chemotherapy schedule by preventing delays due to low white blood cell counts; however, any changes should be discussed with your oncologist.
Is there any dietary restriction while taking Ristempa?
There are no specific dietary restrictions while taking Ristempa; however, maintaining a balanced diet supports overall health during cancer treatment.
Can I travel while receiving treatment with Ristempa?
Yes, you can travel during treatment with Ristempa but discuss travel plans with your healthcare provider to ensure safety and availability of medical care if needed.
How does pegfilgrastim differ from filgrastim?
Pegfilgrastim (Ristempa) has a longer duration of action compared to filgrastim due to its pegylation which allows less frequent dosing—typically only once per chemo cycle versus daily dosing with filgrastim.
What happens if my white blood cell count doesn’t improve with Ristempa?
If there's no improvement in white blood cell count after using Ristetmpo as directed, your healthcare provider will investigate further options or adjustments in therapy.