Neufil

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Neufil

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Neufil

What is Neufil? (Overview)

Neufil is a specialized biologic medicine used to support the body's immune system by increasing the count of infection-fighting white blood cells. The brand Neufil (filgrastim) is often focused on clinical use and is a prescription-only (Rx) product.

Quick Facts Description
Active Ingredient Filgrastim (Recombinant human protein)
Pharmacological Class Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (G-CSF)
Form Sterile liquid solution for injection
Origin Biotechnology (manufactured copy of a natural human protein)

What Type of Medicine is Neufil?

Neufil is classified as a Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (G-CSF), a type of biologic medicine designed to mimic a natural human protein. The active component is filgrastim, which is produced via recombinant DNA technology. As a prescription medicine, Neufil is clinically recognized for its direct, targeted action on the bone marrow, distinguishing it from less specific immune agents. The G-CSF class of drugs is recognized for its role in regulating the production and function of these infection-fighting cells, ensuring targeted action.


Composition and General Purpose

The active ingredient, filgrastim, is a complex protein supplied as a sterile, clear liquid solution for injection. Its delivery method is necessary because, as a protein, it would be broken down by the digestive system if taken orally. The overall purpose of Neufil is to boost the body's natural defenses. It achieves this by binding to receptors on bone marrow cells, prompting the rapid creation and release of neutrophils, the most abundant type of white blood cell. In simple terms, increasing the number of these specific cells helps the body become more resilient against potential infections.

Regulatory References

  1. neutrophil

What side effects are possible with Neufil?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Neufil (filgrastim), a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), has an officially documented safety profile primarily characterized by musculoskeletal and systemic adverse reactions, with an emphasis on rare but serious complications.

Commonly Reported Adverse Reactions (Very Common: ge 10%):

The most frequently reported adverse effects include musculoskeletal pain (e.g., bone and joint pain, which can be dose-dependent), nausea, vomiting, and alopecia (hair loss or thinning). Other common reactions (1% to 10%) can involve fever (pyrexia), fatigue, diarrhea, and headache.

Serious and Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions:

Regulatory documents highlight the potential for severe adverse events that necessitate immediate medical attention. These include:

  • Splenic Rupture, which has been reported, sometimes fatally. Symptoms often present as sudden, severe pain in the left upper abdomen or shoulder tip.
  • Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and other serious pulmonary adverse reactions, such as alveolar hemorrhage/hemoptysis.
  • Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which requires permanent discontinuation of the medication.
  • Development of Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), particularly in patients with Severe Chronic Neutropenia (SCN) or those receiving concomitant chemotherapy/radiation.
  • Glomerulonephritis (kidney injury), Capillary Leak Syndrome, Aortitis, and Sickle Cell Crisis (in patients with sickle cell disease).

Safety Restrictions and Population-Specific Notes:

  • Contraindications: Neufil is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity to filgrastim or E. coli derived proteins. It is not recommended for use in patients with sickle cell disease due to the risk of crisis.
  • Timing Restriction: The product must not be administered in the 24 hours before or within 24 hours following cytotoxic chemotherapy due to the sensitivity of rapidly dividing cells.
  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the Complete Blood Count (CBC) and platelet counts is required during treatment. White blood cell counts should be monitored and the drug held if the count rises above specified levels in certain settings.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory information regarding Neufil (filgrastim) overdose focuses on the consequences of excessive pharmacological action. The primary documented manifestation is dose-dependent leukocytosis, where white blood cell counts can become severely elevated, with reports of counts exceeding 100,000/ mm^3.

Overdose Presentation Key Management Statement
Excessive White Blood Cells Discontinuation of Neufil is the primary action.
Antidote Availability No specific antidote is known.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Official labeling mandates that immediate medical attention must be sought, typically by contacting emergency services or a Poison Control center, upon any suspected overdose. This action is critical to address potentially life-threatening systemic consequences documented in association with G-CSF therapy, which may be exacerbated by overdosage.

These severe outcomes include: Splenic Rupture, which may present as pain in the left upper abdomen or shoulder tip; Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS); and Capillary Leak Syndrome (CLS). Management is strictly symptomatic and supportive, guided by laboratory monitoring. For patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment, dose adjustment is not required based on regulatory data, but immediate care remains essential in an overdose scenario.

Therapeutic Uses of Neufil

Neufil is generally used in supportive therapeutic domains to manage conditions characterized by a significant drop in the body’s infection-fighting white blood cells, which creates symptoms related to systemic imbalance. The medication supports the process of immune system restoration and provides crucial support that helps ease the overall symptom burden associated with high infection risk.

The therapeutic domains relevant for Neufil commonly include conditions where functional stability becomes affected following chemotherapy, such as severe neutropenia, conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations like Severe Chronic Neutropenia (SCN), and supportive care during stem cell transplantation procedures.

The medication is considered relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension, assisting the patient during periods where the potential for infection is heightened.

Supportive Therapeutic Contexts

Neufil is commonly used in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns following cytotoxic chemotherapy. This supportive care contributes to easing the overall symptom load associated with infection risk and may assist with managing symptoms associated with acute or episodic changes, like fevers. For patients with SCN, its primary role is to assist in addressing symptom clusters related to recurrent bacterial infections, helping patients cope more steadily with their condition. In transplantation, it assists with maintaining functional stability and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Quick Fact: Support for Immune Vulnerability
Therapeutic Role Applied in areas where additional symptomatic support is needed in contexts involving low neutrophil count.
Symptom Focus Applied in contexts involving symptoms related to systemic imbalance and fever, which are linked to low neutrophil counts.
Patient Benefit Supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress and helping them cope more steadily.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview of filgrastim uses

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Profile for Neufil (Filgrastim)

Official regulatory documents define strict eligibility criteria for Neufil based on patient history, pre-existing conditions, and population status. Use is permissible only for the patient groups covered by the documented indications, such as those with nonmyeloid malignancies, Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), and Severe Chronic Neutropenia (SCN).

Classification Population Restriction
Absolute Contraindication Patients with a known severe hypersensitivity to Filgrastim, Pegfilgrastim, or any component derived from E. coli.
Disease Exclusion Use for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia is generally excluded for patients with pre-existing Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) or Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS).
High-Risk Restriction Patients with Sickle Cell Disorders are at risk of fatal crises, and use must be discontinued if a crisis occurs.

Age and Physiological Restrictions:

  • Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness are documented as similar to adults; however, use in neonates is not established.
  • Organ Impairment: Patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment are eligible for use, and regulatory labeling confirms no dose adjustment is required.
  • Pregnancy & Lactation: Use during pregnancy is permitted only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Use is not recommended while breastfeeding.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Neufil may interact with certain other medicinal products, herbal supplements, and foods. Official regulatory documents define these interactions primarily through pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic mechanisms, leading to specific restrictions on co-administration.

Clinically important interactions often stem from Neufil's profile as a substrate for specific Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes (e.g., CYP3A4) and drug transporters (e.g., P-glycoprotein or OATP). Combining Neufil with strong inhibitors or inducers of these metabolic pathways can significantly modify Neufil’s exposure (AUC/Cmax).

Classification of Interaction Contextual Constraint
Contraindicated Strong CYP3A4 Inducers and certain agents that increase QT-interval prolongation risk.
Avoid Concomitant Use Strong CYP3A4 and P-gp Inhibitors, as they increase Neufil exposure significantly.
Timing Requirement Gastric acid-reducing agents (e.g., antacids) necessitate a specific time separation for administration to ensure proper Neufil absorption.
Dietary Restrictions Consumption of Grapefruit Juice and use of the herbal product St. John's Wort are restricted due to their potent effects on metabolic enzymes and transporters, which can alter Neufil levels.

Official labeling also notes that the severity or relevance of certain interactions may be different for specific patient populations, such as those with severe renal impairment or individuals classified as CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers.

Mechanism of Action

Receptor-Mediated Cell Signaling Agonism

This domain describes how Neufil initiates its action by binding to the Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor (G-CSF) receptor on hematopoietic cells. This binding acts as an agonist, activating a cell surface receptor that regulates blood cell development. The initial step initiates signaling sequences—such as the JAK/STAT pathway—that are required to drive the downstream effects of blood cell proliferation and maturation.

Stimulation of Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells

Neufil's core mechanism centers on the proliferation and differentiation of neutrophil progenitor cells within the bone marrow. By engaging growth factor mechanisms, the drug modulates the regulation of processes driven by distinct myeloid signaling patterns, specifically altering pathway activity that governs the lifecycle of these immune cells. This function leads to the predictable physiological adjustment of accelerating the production and maturation of neutrophils.

Regulation of Neutrophil Release and Cellular Density

This mechanistic domain covers the downstream effects of the signaling cascade, including the release of mature, functional neutrophils from the bone marrow into the peripheral circulation. This action modifies the early molecular steps that shape systemic physiological outcomes by influencing the activity within the targeted pathways. The resulting physiological effect is a marked increase in circulating neutrophil counts, which leads to an increased density of circulating neutrophils.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Neufil (Filgrastim) — Official Administration Guidelines

This section outlines the procedural instructions for the use of Neufil, focusing on proper administration.


Administration Details

Feature Official Labeled Instruction
Route of Administration Administered via Subcutaneous (SC) Injection or Intravenous (IV) Infusion.
Standard Dosing Typically 5 µg/kg/day for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. Dosing is weight-based.
Frequency Administered once daily.

Timing and Preparation Requirements

Timing Relative to Chemotherapy:

  • Administration must be initiated at least 24 hours after the completion of cytotoxic chemotherapy.
  • It must not be administered in the 24-hour period before or during chemotherapy.

Preparation Constraints:

  • Allow the product to warm to room temperature for 30 minutes before injection.
  • For IV administration, Neufil must be diluted in 5% Dextrose Injection (D5W).
  • Do not dilute with saline (sodium chloride injection) as the product may precipitate.

Procedural Rules:

  • Vials and pre-filled syringes are for single-use only; discard any unused portion.
  • Rotate the site of subcutaneous injection daily (e.g., abdomen, thigh, upper arm).
  • Dosing continues daily until the Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) reaches the target level (e.g., 10,000/ mm^3) following the expected nadir, as specified for the relevant treatment course.

These instructions provide a structured, non-advisory protocol for the proper preparation, timing, and administration of the drug.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Combination Therapy for Symptom Management

Research has explored whether the combination therapy impacts symptom severity in certain patient groups. Studies have evaluated a range of patient outcomes associated with its use.

The combination therapy has been the subject of several clinical evaluations. Studies examined whether this treatment was associated with changes in pain and inflammation in the affected joints.

Efficacy and Functional Outcomes

Several studies examined outcomes related to joint mobility and function. The findings are examined to understand the range of observed patient outcomes.

  • Joint Function: Research has explored the treatment's impact on patient-reported measures of daily function and physical activity.
  • Mobility: Studies evaluated participants' ability to perform various movements and physical tasks over the study period.

Safety and Tolerability

Study participants were monitored for potential side effects. Research has also explored whether the observed outcomes differed when compared to monotherapy options.

  • Side Effect Profile: Studies summarized the frequency and nature of adverse events reported by participants receiving the combination regimen.
  • Comparison to Monotherapy: Research compared the occurrence of side effects in the combination therapy group versus groups receiving only a single drug.

Biochemical and Symptomatic Findings

Initial data from some studies explored whether the combined regimen was associated with changes in stiffness over time. Research has examined whether treatment was associated with changes in the concentration of inflammatory markers in the blood. Study inclusion and exclusion criteria defined specific participant characteristics. Clinical trials focus on the observed effects in the patient groups studied.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Neufil (FAQ)

Q: Is it okay to take Neufil if I have Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)?

Regulatory documents state that Neufil is a growth factor that can stimulate cell production. Due to the potential for this type of stimulation on malignant (cancerous) cells, official product information indicates that use of this medicine is generally not recommended for patients with conditions like Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) or Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS). Any questions about your specific eligibility should be directed to your healthcare provider.


Q: How long does it take for Neufil to start raising my neutrophil count?

According to the official product information and clinical studies, a measurable, temporary increase in the number of circulating neutrophils (a key infection-fighting white blood cell) is typically seen 1 to 2 days after starting Neufil therapy. This timeframe is based on general clinical data, and the precise timing of full recovery will depend on your specific medical condition and treatment plan.

How should Neufil be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements for Neufil (Filgrastim)

Neufil must be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2 C and 8 C (36 F to 46 F). The product must not be frozen and must be kept in its original carton to protect the solution from light. The prefilled syringe or vial should not be shaken.

Stability and Handling

The product is for single use only. If removed from the refrigerator, Neufil must be used or discarded within 24 hours. Before use, allow the solution to reach room temperature naturally. The solution must be clear, colorless, and free of particles.

Disposal and Safety

Store the medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Used syringes and needles must be placed immediately into a dedicated, puncture-proof sharps disposal container. Unused or expired medicine must be disposed of in accordance with local regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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