lled syringe for injection into the tissue just under the skin. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist will tell you how much Neulasta you need and how frequently it should be injected.
Equipment:
To give yourself an injection you will need:
■a new Neulasta pre-filled syringe; and
■alcohol wipes or similar.
What should I do before I give myself a subcutaneous injection of Neulasta?
1. Remove the pre-filled syringe from the refrigerator. Do not pick up the pre-filled syringe by the plunger or needle cover. This could damage the device.
2. Leave the pre-filled syringe at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. This will make the injection more comfortable. Do not warm Neulasta in any other way (for example, in a microwave or in hot water). Do not leave the syringe exposed to direct sunlight.
3. Do not shake the pre-filled syringe.
4. Do not remove the cover from the pre-filled syringe until you are ready to inject.
5. Check the expiry date on the pre-filled syringe label (EXP). Do not use it if the date has passed the last day of the month shown.
6. Check the appearance of Neulasta. It must be a clear and colourless liquid. If it is cloudy or there are particles in it, you must not use it.
7. Wash your hands thoroughly.
8. Find a comfortable, well-lit, clean surface and put all the equipment you need within reach.
Where should I give my injection The best places to inject yourself are the top of your thighs and the abdomen. If someone else is injecting for you, they can also use the back of your arms. Change the injection site if you notice the area is red or sore. How do I give my injection
1. Disinfect your skin by using an alcohol wipe.
2. To avoid bending the needle, gently pull the cover from the needle straight off without twisting as shown. Do not touch the needle or push the plunger. 3. You may notice a small air bubble in the pre-filled syringe. You do not have to remove the air bubble before injecting. Injecting the solution with the air bubble is harmless.
4. Pinch (without squeezing) the skin between your thumb and forefinger. Put the needle fully into the skin as shown by your nurse or doctor.
5. Pull slightly on the plunger to check that a blood vessel has not been punctured. If you see blood in the syringe, pull the needle out and re-insert it in another place after disinfecting the skin. 6. Push the plunger with a slow constant pressure, always keeping your skin pinched. Push the plunger all the way down as far as it will go to inject all the liquid.
The needle guard will not activate unless you empty the pre-filled syringe.
7. While the plunger is still pressed all the way down, remove the needle from the skin, then release the plunger and allow the syringe to move up until the entire needle is covered by the needle guard. If the needle guard is not activated, an incomplete injection may have occurred. Call your health care provider if you think you have not received the full dose.
DO NOT put the needle cover back on the needle.
8. If you notice a spot of blood you may gently dab it away with a cotton ball or tissue. Do not rub the injection site. If needed, you may cover the injection site with a plaster.
9. Only use each pre-filled syringe for one injection. Do not use any Neulasta that is left in the syringe.
Remember: If you have any problems, please ask your doctor or nurse for help and advice.
Disposing of used syringes
■You do not need to put the needle cover back on used syringes.
■Keep used syringes out of the reach and sight of children.
■The used syringe should be disposed of in accordance with local req |
