why do neupogen shots hurt? how does it work?

Yes, "filgrastim" is the "real" name.

It is used to treat neutropaenia (I assume in your case, that is caused by the chemotherapy?) it stimulates the bone marrow to produce more neutrophils. I believe it also stimulates the bone marrow into releasing them into the bloodstream.

In layman's terms...I guess it's an immune booster, making you less susceptible to infection.

It might hurt because the active substance in the shot is stimulating your marrow. I read that pain is common and "normal" in the back and the sternum, as that is where most marrow is produced.

Neupogen Shots

The shot itself doesn't really hurt because the needle is tiny and you can insert it into a fleshy part of your body, but unfortunately the effects of Neupogen can be intensely painful. I had them frequently during active treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma, and for me they were by far the worst part of the entire experience of having cancer. I felt like a semi truck had run over my body, reversed, and run over me again. My oncologist told me the bone pain would be mild, but in my case it wasn't; it was shockingly brutal. I have a high threshold for pain, so I'm not the type to whine over small aches. At the suggestion of another patient I tried Benadryl and was surprised that it did actually help to alleviate some of the pain. Ask your oncologist about it before experimenting.

I'm sorry this is so grim, but I felt like being honest was better than giving sugar coated answer. Everyone reacts differently to Neupogen, and it's possible that you will just have slight discomfort.

I'm writing this from my phone so I'm keeping it brief. I'll try to edit & add tips about coping with the pain later on, or will just message you.

~ skylark

Neupogen Injections

I did the shot after each of chemo rounds. I never had the bone pain, but it is a very common side effect.

You got the name right. They are to help boost your immune system while you are going through chemo so you are less likely to get an infection.

I was lucky enough to not need one so no idea if it hurts.

Can they give it through your Port?