Myelogen

Molgramostim (400mg)
Price: ₹9,000 - ₹12,000 per vial (Approximate MRP)
Mfr: Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd | Form: Injection (Lyophilized Powder in vial)

📋 Clinical Overview

Molgramostim is a recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rhGM-CSF) used as an immunostimulant. It is a glycoprotein that stimulates the proliferation, differentiation, and functional activation of hematopoietic progenitor cells, primarily neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages. In the Indian context, it is a critical supportive therapy in oncology and hematology to manage chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and accelerate myeloid recovery post-bone marrow transplantation.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: For BMT/Post-Chemotherapy Neutropenia: 250 mcg/m²/day administered as a 2-hour intravenous infusion or subcutaneous injection for 21 days. For PBPC Mobilization: 250 mcg/m²/day subcutaneously.

Note: Reconstitute 400 mcg vial with 1 mL of Sterile Water for Injection (without preservative). Gently swirl; do not shake vigorously. Use within 6 hours of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C. Administer subcutaneously (preferred) or as a slow IV infusion over 2-4 hours. Rotate subcutaneous injection sites (abdomen, thigh, upper arm).

⚠️ Contraindications

  • History of severe hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis) to Molgramostim, any other GM-CSF product, or any component of the formulation (e.g., mannitol, sucrose).
  • Simultaneous administration with chemotherapy or radiotherapy (contraindicated within 24 hours before or after cytotoxic therapy).
  • Patients with excessive leukemic myeloid blasts in the bone marrow or peripheral blood (≥10%).

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Molgramostim binds with high affinity to specific cell surface receptors (GM-CSFR) present on hematopoietic progenitor cells and mature cells of the myeloid lineage. This binding activates intracellular JAK/STAT, MAPK, and PI3K signaling pathways, leading to gene transcription that promotes cell proliferation, differentiation, and functional activation.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Bone pain (dull, aching, often in sternum, pelvis, long bones).
  • Fever, malaise, fatigue.
  • Injection site reactions (erythema, pain, induration).
  • Headache.
  • Myalgia/Arthralgia.

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Driving: May cause fatigue, dizziness, or headache. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how the drug affects them.

🔄 Drug Interactions

LithiumMay potentiate the release of neutrophils; increased risk of neutropenia or leukocytosis.Moderate
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone)May potentiate myeloproliferative effects; monitor blood counts closely.Moderate
Chemotherapeutic Agents (e.g., Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin)Concurrent use can increase myelosuppression. Administer Molgramostim at least 24 hours after last chemotherapy dose.Major
Sympathomimetics (e.g., Epinephrine)Theoretical risk of increased vascular side effects.Minor

🔁 Alternatives to Myelogen

Same composition (Molgramostim (400mg)), different brands:

Leukomax GM-Cyte