When you have G-CSF injections, the amount of G-CSF in your body becomes much higher than normal. This can cause some side effects. These aren’t usually severe and get better when the G-CSF treatment stops.
Each person’s reaction to treatment is different. Some people have very few side effects while others may experience more. The side effects described here won’t affect everyone having G-CSF
We explain the most common side effects but haven’t included all of the rarer side effects that are unlikely to affect you. If you notice any effects that aren’t listed here, discuss them with your doctor or specialist nurse.
Serious and life-threatening side effects
Sometimes cancer drugs can result in very severe allergic reactions. These may be lifethreatening, but this is rare. Your cancer doctor and nurse can explain the risk of these side effects to you.
Contact the hospital
Your nurse will give you telephone numbers for the hospital. You can call them if you feel unwell or need advice any time of day or night. Save these numbers in your phone or keep them somewhere safe.
More information about this drug
We’re not able to list every side effect for this treatment here, particularly the rarer ones. For more detailed information you can visit the electronic medicines compendium (eMC).
Bone pain
This is very common. You may have some discomfort or a dull ache in the bones of your pelvis, back, arms or legs. This is because your bone marrow is making blood cells. Your doctor can prescribe painkillers, such as paracetamol.
Red, itchy skin
Your skin may become red and itchy around the area where you had the G-CSF injection. Having the injection in a different place on your body each time may help.
Headaches
G-CSF may cause headaches. If this happens, tell your doctor or nurse. They can give you painkillers.
Bruising or bleeding
You may bruise or bleed more easily. This is because G-CSF can affect the blood clotting cells, called platelets, in your blood. This improves after treatment stops. Talk to your doctor or nurse if you are worried about this.
Fever and chills
Your doctor may prescribe paracetamol if you have a temperature and chills.
Sickness or reduced appetite
You may feel sick or not feel like eating while having G-CSF treatment. If this happens, talk to your doctor or nurse. They can give you anti-sickness drugs to help. These feelings should improve when treatment stops.
Bowel changes
You may be constipated or have diarrhoea while you are having G-CSF treatment. This should get better when treatment stops. Talk to your doctor or nurse if this is a problem for you. Try to drink at least two litres (three and a half pints) of fluids every day.
Left side or tummy discomfort
G-CSF can cause your spleen to get slightly bigger which might be uncomfortable on your left side, your tummy or your left shoulder. Tell your doctor straight away if you notice any discomfort or pain in these areas. Your spleen should go back to its normal size once treatment stops.
Liver changes
G-CSF may affect how your liver works. This is usually mild and goes back to normal after treatment. You will have blood tests to check how well your liver is working.
Build-up of fluid
This may lead to swelling of the ankles or breathlessness. This is quite rare. Talk to your doctor or nurse if you notice this.
Allergic reaction
Very rarely, people have an allergic reaction to G-CSF. The signs include a rash, swallowing or breathing problems, or swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue. Contact the hospital straight away if you have any of these signs. Do not have any more G-CSF injections until you have spoken to your doctor.
It’s important to let your doctor know straight away if you feel unwell or have any severe side effects, even if they’re not mentioned here.