Neupopeg

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ANNEX I 
 

SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS 

 



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1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg solution for injection. 
 
 
2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION 
 
Each pre-filled syringe contains 6 mg of pegfilgrastim* in 0.6 ml solution for injection.   
The concentration is 10 mg/ml based on protein only**. 
 
*Produced in Escherichia coli cells by recombinant DNA technology followed by conjugation with 
polyethylene glycol (PEG). 
** The concentration is 20 mg/ml if the PEG moiety is included 
 
The potency of this product should not be compared to the potency of another pegylated or non-
pegylated protein of the same therapeutic class. For more information, see section 5.1. 
 
Excipients:  
 
Excipients known to have a recognised action: sorbitol E420, sodium acetate (see section 4.4). 
 
For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1. 
 
 
3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM 
 
Solution for injection.  
 
Clear, colourless solution for injection.  
 
 
4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS 
 
4.1 Therapeutic indications 
 
Reduction in the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients treated 
with cytotoxic chemotherapy for malignancy (with the exception of chronic myeloid leukaemia and 
myelodysplastic syndromes). 
 
4.2 Posology and method of administration 
 
Neupopeg therapy should be initiated and supervised by physicians experienced in oncology and/or 
haematology. 
 
One 6 mg dose (a single pre-filled syringe) of Neupopeg is recommended for each chemotherapy 
cycle, administered as a subcutaneous injection approximately 24 hours following cytotoxic 
chemotherapy.   
 
Neupopeg is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age due to insufficient data on 
safety and efficacy.  
 
Renal impairment: no dose change is recommended in patients with renal impairment, including those 
with end stage renal disease. 
 
4.3 Contraindications 
 
Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. 

 



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4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use 
 
Limited clinical data suggest a comparable effect on time to recovery of severe neutropenia for 
pegfilgrastim to filgrastim in patients with de novo acute myeloid leukaemia (see section 5.1).  
However, the long-term effects of Neupopeg have not been established in acute myeloid leukaemia; 
therefore, it should be used with caution in this patient population. 
 
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor can promote growth of myeloid cells in vitro and similar effects 
may be seen on some non-myeloid cells in vitro.  
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg have not been investigated in patients with myelodysplastic 
syndrome, chronic myelogenous leukaemia, and in patients with secondary Acute Myeloid Leukaemia 
(AML); therefore, it should not be used in such patients. Particular care should be taken to distinguish 
the diagnosis of blast transformation of chronic myeloid leukaemia from acute myeloid leukaemia.    
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg administration in de novo AML patients aged < 55 years with 
cytogenetics t(15;17) have not been established. 
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg have not been investigated in patients receiving high dose 
chemotherapy.  
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) pulmonary adverse effects, in particular interstitial pneumonia, have 
been reported after G-CSF administration. Patients with a recent history of pulmonary infiltrates or 
pneumonia may be at higher risk. 
 
The onset of pulmonary signs such as cough, fever, and dyspnoea in association with radiological 
signs of pulmonary infiltrates, and deterioration in pulmonary function along with increased neutrophil 
count may be preliminary signs of Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). In such 
circumstances Neupopeg should be discontinued at the discretion of the physician and the appropriate 
treatment given. 
 
Common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10) but generally asymptomatic cases of splenomegaly and very rare 
(< 1/10,000) cases of splenic rupture, including some fatal cases, have been reported following 
administration of pegfilgrastim. Therefore, spleen size should be carefully monitored (e.g. clinical 
examination, ultrasound). A diagnosis of splenic rupture should be considered in patients reporting left 
upper abdominal pain or shoulder tip pain. 
 
Treatment with Neupopeg alone does not preclude thrombocytopenia and anaemia because full dose 
myelosuppressive chemotherapy is maintained on the prescribed schedule. Regular monitoring of 
platelet count and haematocrit is recommended. 
 
Neupopeg should not be used to increase the dose of cytotoxic chemotherapy beyond established 
dosage regimens. 
 
Sickle cell crises have been associated with the use of pegfilgrastim in patients with sickle cell disease.  
Therefore, physicians should exercise caution when administering Neupopeg in patients with sickle 
cell disease, should monitor appropriate clinical parameters and laboratory status and be attentive to 
the possible association of Neupopeg with splenic enlargement and vaso-occlusive crisis. 
 
White blood cell counts of 100 x 109/l or greater have been observed in less than 1% of patients 
receiving Neupopeg.  No adverse events directly attributable to this degree of leukocytosis have been 
reported.  Such elevation in white blood cells is transient, typically seen 24 to 48 hours after 
administration and is consistent with the pharmacodynamic effects of Neupopeg. 
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg for the mobilisation of blood progenitor cells in patients or 
healthy donors has not been adequately evaluated.  

 



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The needle cover of the pre-filled syringe contains dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex), which 
may cause allergic reactions. 
 
Increased haematopoietic activity of the bone marrow in response to growth factor therapy has been 
associated with transient positive bone imaging findings.  This should be considered when interpreting 
bone-imaging results.  
 
Neupopeg contains sorbitol.  Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not 
take this medicine. 
 
Neupopeg contains less than 1 mmol (23 mg) sodium per 6 mg dose, i.e. essentially ‘sodium-free’. 
 
4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction 
 
Due to the potential sensitivity of rapidly dividing myeloid cells to cytotoxic chemotherapy‚ Neupopeg 
should be administered approximately 24 hours after administration of cytotoxic chemotherapy.  In 
clinical studies, Neupopeg has been safely administered 14 days before chemotherapy.  Concomitant 
use of Neupopeg with any chemotherapy agent has not been evaluated in patients.  In animal models 
concomitant administration of Neupopeg and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or other antimetabolites has been 
shown to potentiate myelosuppression. 
 
Possible interactions with other haematopoietic growth factors and cytokines have not been 
specifically investigated in clinical studies.  
 
The potential for interaction with lithium, which also promotes the release of neutrophils, has not been 
specifically investigated. There is no evidence that such an interaction would be harmful. 
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg have not been evaluated in patients receiving chemotherapy 
associated with delayed myelosuppression e.g., nitrosoureas. 
 
Specific interaction or metabolism studies have not been performed, however, clinical studies have not 
indicated an interaction of Neupopeg with any other medicinal products.  
 
4.6 Pregnancy and lactation 
 
There are no adequate data from the use of pegfilgrastim in pregnant women.  Studies in animals have 
shown reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3).  The potential risk for humans is unknown.  
 
Neupopeg should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. 
 
There is no clinical experience with breast-feeding women, therefore Neupopeg should not be 
administered to women who are breast-feeding.   
 
4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines 
 
No studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. 
 
4.8 Undesirable effects 
 
In randomised clinical studies in patients with malignancy receiving Neupopeg after cytotoxic 
chemotherapy, most adverse events were caused by the underlying malignancy or cytotoxic 
chemotherapy.   
 
The most frequently reported and very common study-drug related undesirable effect was bone pain 
Bone pain was generally of mild-to-moderate severity, transient and could be controlled in most 
patients with standard analgesics.  

 



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Allergic-type reactions, including anaphylaxis, skin rash, urticaria, angioedema, dyspnoea, 
hypotension, injection site reactions, erythaema and flushing, occurring on initial or subsequent 
treatment have been reported with Neupopeg.  In some cases, symptoms have recurred with 
rechallenge, suggesting a causal relationship. If a serious allergic reaction occurs, appropriate therapy 
should be administered, with close patient follow-up over several days.  Pegfilgrastim should be 
permanently discontinued in patients who experience a serious allergic reaction. 
 
Reversible, mild to moderate elevations in uric acid and alkaline phosphatase, with no associated 
clinical effects, were common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10); reversible, mild to moderate elevations in lactate 
dehydrogenase, with no associated clinical effects, were very common (≥ 1/10) in patients receiving 
Neupopeg following cytotoxic chemotherapy. Nausea was observed in healthy volunteers and patients 
receiving chemotherapy. 
 
Common (≥ 1/100 to <1/10) but generally asymptomatic cases of splenomegaly and very rare cases of 
splenic rupture, including some fatal cases, have been reported following administration of 
pegfilgrastim (see section 4.4).  Other commonly reported undesirable effects include pain, injection 
site pain; chest pain (non-cardiac); headache; arthralgia; myalgia; back, limb, musculo-skeletal and 
neck pain. 
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) pulmonary adverse effects including interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary 
oedema, pulmonary infiltrates and pulmonary fibrosis have been reported. Some of the reported cases 
have resulted in respiratory failure or Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which may be 
fatal (see section 4.4) 
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) cases of thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis have been reported. 
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) cases of Sweet’s syndrome have been reported, although in some cases 
underlying haematological malignancies may play a role.   
 
Very rare (< 1/10,000) events of cutaneous vasculitis have been reported in patients treated with 
Neupopeg. The mechanism of vasculitis in patients receiving Neupopeg is unknown. 
 
Very rare (< 1/10,000) elevations in liver function tests (LFTs) for ALT (alanine aminotransferase) or 
AST (aspartate aminotransferase), have been observed in patients after receiving pegfilgrastim 
following cytotoxic chemotherapy. These elevations are transient and return to baseline. 
 
Isolated cases of sickle cell crises have been reported in patients with sickle cell disease (see section 
4.4).  
 
4.9 Overdose 
 
There is no experience with overdose of Neupopeg in humans.   
 
 
5. PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 
 
5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties 
 
Pharmacotherapeutic group: Cytokines, ATC Code:  L03AA13 
 
Human granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a glycoprotein, which regulates the 
production and release of neutrophils from the bone marrow.  Pegfilgrastim is a covalent conjugate of 
recombinant human G-CSF (r-metHuG-CSF) with a single 20 kd polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecule.  
Pegfilgrastim is a sustained duration form of filgrastim due to decreased renal clearance.  
Pegfilgrastim and filgrastim have been shown to have identical modes of action, causing a marked 
increase in peripheral blood neutrophil counts within 24 hours, with minor increases in monocytes 

 



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and/or lymphocytes.  Similarly to filgrastim, neutrophils produced in response to pegfilgrastim show 
normal or enhanced function as demonstrated by tests of chemotactic and phagocytic function.  As 
with other haematopoietic growth factors, G-CSF has shown in vitro stimulating properties on human 
endothelial cells.  G-CSF can promote growth of myeloid cells, including malignant cells, in vitro and 
similar effects may be seen on some non-myeloid cells in vitro. 
 
In two randomised, double-blind, pivotal studies in patients with high risk stage II-IV breast cancer 
undergoing myelosuppressive chemotherapy consisting of doxorubicin and docetaxel, use of 
pegfilgrastim, as a single once per cycle dose, reduced the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of 
febrile neutropenia similarly to that observed with daily administrations of filgrastim (a median of 11 
daily administrations). In the absence of growth factor support, this regimen has been reported to result 
in a mean duration of grade 4 neutropenia of 5 to7 days, and a 30-40% incidence of febrile 
neutropenia. In one study (n=157), which used a 6mg fixed dose of pegfilgrastim the mean duration of 
grade 4 neutropenia for the pegfilgrastim group was 1.8 days compared with 1.6 days in the filgrastim 
group (difference 0.23 days, 95% CI -0.15, 0.63). Over the entire study, the rate of febrile neutropenia 
was 13% of pegfilgrastim-treated patients compared with 20% of filgrastim-treated patients 
(difference 7%, 95% CI of -19%, 5%). In a second study (n=310), which used a weight-adjusted dose 
(100 micrograms/kg), the mean duration of grade 4 neutropenia for the pegfilgrastim group was 1.7 
days, compared with 1.8 days in the filgrastim group (difference 0.03 days, 95% CI -0.36, 0.30). The 
overall rate of febrile neutropenia was 9% of patients treated with pegfilgrastim and 18% of patients 
treated with filgrastim (difference 9%, 95% CI of -16.8%,-1.1%). 
 
In a placebo-controlled, double blind study in patients with breast cancer the effect of pegfilgrastim on 
the incidence of febrile neutropenia was evaluated following administration of a chemotherapy 
regimen associated with a febrile neutropenia rate of 10-20% (docetaxel 100 mg/m2  every 3 weeks for 
4 cycles). Nine hundred and twenty eight patients were randomised to receive either a single dose of 
pegfilgrastim or placebo approximately 24 hours (Day 2) after chemotherapy in each cycle. The 
incidence of febrile neutropenia was lower for patients randomised to receive pegfilgrastim compared 
with placebo (1% versus 17%, p<0.001). The incidence of hospitalisations and IV anti-infective use 
associated with a clinical diagnosis of febrile neutropenia was lower in the pegfilgrastim group 
compared with placebo (1% versus 14%, p<0.001; and 2% versus 10%, p<0.001) 
 
A small (n=83), Phase II, randomised, double-blind study in patients receiving chemotherapy for 
de novo acute myeloid leukaemia compared pegfilgrastim (single dose of 6 mg) with filgrastim, 
administered during induction chemotherapy.  Median time to recovery from severe neutropenia was 
estimated as 22 days in both treatment groups. Long term outcome was not studied (see section 4.4).  
 
5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties 
 
After a single subcutaneous dose of pegfilgrastim, the peak serum concentration of pegfilgrastim 
occurs at 16 to 120 hours after dosing and serum concentrations of pegfilgrastim are maintained during 
the period of neutropenia after myelosuppressive chemotherapy.  The elimination of pegfilgrastim is 
non-linear with respect to dose; serum clearance of pegfilgrastim decreases with increasing dose.    
Pegfilgrastim appears to be mainly eliminated by neutrophil mediated clearance, which becomes 
saturated at higher doses.  Consistent with a self-regulating clearance mechanism, the serum 
concentration of pegfilgrastim declines rapidly at the onset of neutrophil recovery (see Figure 1). 
 

 



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Figure 1.  Profile of Median Pegfilgrastim Serum Concentration and Absolute Neutrophil Count 
(ANC) in Chemotherapy Treated Patients after a Single 6 mg Injection 

 

Study Day

0 3 6 9 12 15 18 21

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Pegfilgrastim Conc.
ANC

 
 
Due to the neutrophil-mediated clearance mechanism, the pharmacokinetics of pegfilgrastim is not 
expected to be affected by renal or hepatic impairment.  In a open label, single dose study (n=31) 
various stages of renal impairment, including end-stage renal disease, had no impact on the 
pharmacokinetics of pegfilgrastim. 
 
Limited data indicate that the pharmacokinetics of pegfilgrastim in elderly subjects (> 65 years) is 
similar to that in adults.  
 
5.3 Preclinical safety data 
 
Preclinical data from conventional studies of repeated dose toxicity revealed the expected 
pharmacological effects including increases in leukocyte count, myeloid hyperplasia in bone marrow, 
extramedullary haematopoiesis and splenic enlargement.  
 
There were no adverse effects observed in offspring from pregnant rats given pegfilgrastim 
subcutaneously, but in rabbits pegfilgrastim has been shown to cause embryo/foetal toxicity (embryo 
loss) at low subcutaneous doses. In rat studies, it was shown that pegfilgrastim may cross the placenta. 
The relevance of these findings for humans is not known.  
 
 
6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS 
 
6.1 List of excipients 
 
Sodium acetate* 
Sorbitol (E420) 
Polysorbate 20 
Water for injections 
 
*Sodium acetate is formed by titrating glacial acetic acid with sodium hydroxide.  
 
6.2 Incompatibilities 
 
This medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products, particularly with sodium 
chloride solutions.   
 

 



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6.3 Shelf life 
 
30 months. 
 
6.4 Special precautions for storage 
 
Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C).   
 
Neupopeg may be exposed to room temperature (not above 30°C) for a maximum single period of up 
to 72 hours.  Neupopeg left at room temperature for more than 72 hours should be discarded.  
 
Do not freeze.  Accidental exposure to freezing temperatures for a single period of less than 24 hours 
does not adversely affect the stability of Neupopeg. 
 
Keep the container in the outer carton, in order to protect from light.  
 
6.5 Nature and contents of container 
 
0.6 ml of solution for injection in a pre-filled syringe (Type I glass), with a rubber stopper, and with a 
stainless steel needle.  Pack size of one, in either blistered or non-blistered packaging.  Single use only. 
 
The needle cover of the pre-filled syringe contains dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex) (see 
section 4.4).
 
Not all pack sizes may be marketed. 
 
6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling 
 
Before administration, Neupopeg solution should be inspected visually for particulate matter.  Only a 
solution that is clear and colourless should be injected.  
 
Excessive shaking may aggregate pegfilgrastim, rendering it biologically inactive.  
 
Allow the pre-filled syringe to reach room temperature before injecting. 
 
Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. 
 
 
7. MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
Via San Martino 12 
I-20122 Milan 
Italy 
 
 
8. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/02/228/001-002 
 
 
9. DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION 
 
Date of first authorisation: 22 August 2002 
Date of last renewal: 16 July 2007 
 
 

 



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10. DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT 
 
 
 
Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines 
Agency (EMEA) http://www.emea.europa.eu/
 

 

http://www.emea.europa.eu/


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1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg solution for injection in a pre-filled pen. 
 
 
2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION 
 
Each pre-filled pen contains 6 mg of pegfilgrastim* in 0.6 ml solution for injection.  The concentration 
is 10 mg/ml based on protein only**. 
 
*Produced in Escherichia coli cells by recombinant DNA technology followed by conjugation with 
polyethylene glycol (PEG). 
** The concentration is 20 mg/ml if the PEG moiety is included 
 
The potency of this product should not be compared to the potency of another pegylated or non-
pegylated protein of the same therapeutic class. For more information, see section 5.1 
 
Excipients: 
 
Excipients known to have a recognised action: sorbitol E420, sodium acetate (see section 4.4). 
 
For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1. 
 
 
3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM 
 
Solution for injection in a pre-filled pen (SureClick).  
 
Clear, colourless solution for injection. 
 
 
4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS 
 
4.1 Therapeutic indications 
 
Reduction in the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients treated 
with cytotoxic chemotherapy for malignancy (with the exception of chronic myeloid leukaemia and 
myelodysplastic syndromes). 
 
4.2 Posology and method of administration 
 
Neupopeg therapy should be initiated and supervised by physicians experienced in oncology and/or 
haematology. 
 
One 6 mg dose (a single pre-filled pen) of Neupopeg (SureClick) is recommended for each 
chemotherapy cycle, administered as a subcutaneous injection approximately 24 hours following 
cytotoxic chemotherapy.   
 
Neupopeg is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age due to insufficient data on 
safety and efficacy.  
 
Renal impairment: no dose change is recommended in patients with renal impairment, including those 
with end stage renal disease. 
 
4.3 Contraindications 
 
Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. 

 



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4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use 
 
Limited clinical data suggest a similar effect on time to recovery of severe neutropenia for 
pegfilgrastim to filgrastim in patients with de novo acute myeloid leukaemia (see section 5.1).  
However, the long-term effects of Neupopeg have not been established in acute myeloid leukaemia; 
therefore, it should be used with caution in this patient population. 
 
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor can promote growth of myeloid cells in vitro and similar effects 
may be seen on some non-myeloid cells in vitro.  
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg have not been investigated in patients with myelodysplastic 
syndrome, chronic myelogenous leukaemia, and in patients with secondary Acute Myeloid Leukaemia 
(AML); therefore, it should not be used in such patients. Particular care should be taken to distinguish 
the diagnosis of blast transformation of chronic myeloid leukaemia from acute myeloid leukaemia.    
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg administration in de novo AML patients aged < 55 years with 
cytogenetics t(15;17) have not been established. 
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg have not been investigated in patients receiving high dose 
chemotherapy.  
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) pulmonary adverse effects, in particular interstitial pneumonia, have 
been reported after G-CSF administration. Patients with a recent history of pulmonary infiltrates or 
pneumonia may be at higher risk. 
 
The onset of pulmonary signs such as cough, fever, and dyspnoea in association with radiological 
signs of pulmonary infiltrates, and deterioration in pulmonary function along with increased neutrophil 
count may be preliminary signs of Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). In such 
circumstances Neupopeg should be discontinued at the discretion of the physician and the appropriate 
treatment given. 
 
Common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10) but generally asymptomatic cases of splenomegaly and very rare 
(< 1/10,000) cases of splenic rupture, including some fatal cases, have been reported following 
administration of pegfilgrastim. Therefore, spleen size should be carefully monitored (e.g. clinical 
examination, ultrasound). A diagnosis of splenic rupture should be considered in patients reporting left 
upper abdominal pain or shoulder tip pain. 
 
Treatment with Neupopeg alone does not preclude thrombocytopenia and anaemia because full dose 
myelosuppressive chemotherapy is maintained on the prescribed schedule. Regular monitoring of 
platelet count and haematocrit is recommended. 
 
Neupopeg should not be used to increase the dose of cytotoxic chemotherapy beyond established 
dosage regimens. 
 
Sickle cell crises have been associated with the use of pegfilgrastim in patients with sickle cell disease.  
Therefore, physicians should exercise caution when administering Neupopeg in patients with sickle 
cell disease, should monitor appropriate clinical parameters and laboratory status and be attentive to 
the possible association of Neupopeg with splenic enlargement and vaso-occlusive crisis. 
 
White blood cell counts of 100 x 109/l or greater have been observed in less than 1% of patients 
receiving Neupopeg.  No adverse events directly attributable to this degree of leukocytosis have been 
reported.  Such elevation in white blood cells is transient, typically seen 24 to 48 hours after 
administration and is consistent with the pharmacodynamic effects of Neupopeg. 
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg for the mobilisation of blood progenitor cells in patients or 
healthy donors has not been adequately evaluated.  

 



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The needle cover of the pre-filled pen contains dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex), which may 
cause allergic reactions. 
 
Increased haematopoietic activity of the bone marrow in response to growth factor therapy has been 
associated with transient positive bone imaging findings.  This should be considered when interpreting 
bone-imaging results.  
 
Neupopeg contains sorbitol.  Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not 
take this medicine. 
 
Neupopeg contains less than 1 mmol (23 mg) sodium per 6 mg dose, i.e. essentially ‘sodium-free’. 
 
4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction 
 
Due to the potential sensitivity of rapidly dividing myeloid cells to cytotoxic chemotherapy‚ Neupopeg 
should be administered approximately 24 hours after administration of cytotoxic chemotherapy.  In 
clinical studies, Neupopeg has been safely administered 14 days before chemotherapy.  Concomitant 
use of Neupopeg with any chemotherapy agent has not been evaluated in patients.  In animal models 
concomitant administration of Neupopeg and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or other antimetabolites has been 
shown to potentiate myelosuppression. 
 
Possible interactions with other haematopoietic growth factors and cytokines have not been 
specifically investigated in clinical studies.  
 
The potential for interaction with lithium, which also promotes the release of neutrophils, has not been 
specifically investigated. There is no evidence that such an interaction would be harmful. 
 
The safety and efficacy of Neupopeg have not been evaluated in patients receiving chemotherapy 
associated with delayed myelosuppression e.g., nitrosoureas. 
 
Specific interaction or metabolism studies have not been performed, however, clinical studies have not 
indicated an interaction of Neupopeg with any other medicinal products.  
 
4.6 Pregnancy and lactation 
 
There are no adequate data from the use of pegfilgrastim in pregnant women.  Studies in animals have 
shown reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3).  The potential risk for humans is unknown.  
 
Neupopeg should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. 
 
There is no clinical experience with breast-feeding women, therefore Neupopeg should not be 
administered to women who are breast-feeding.   
 
4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines 
 
No studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. 
 
4.8 Undesirable effects 
 
In randomised clinical studies in patients with malignancy receiving Neupopeg after cytotoxic 
chemotherapy, most adverse events were caused by the underlying malignancy or cytotoxic 
chemotherapy.   
 
The most frequently reported and very common study-drug related undesirable effect was bone pain 
Bone pain was generally of mild-to-moderate severity, transient and could be controlled in most 
patients with standard analgesics.  

 



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Allergic-type reactions, including anaphylaxis, skin rash, urticaria, angioedema, dyspnoea, 
hypotension, injection site reactions, erythaema and flushing, occurring on initial or subsequent 
treatment have been reported with Neupopeg.  In some cases, symptoms have recurred with 
rechallenge, suggesting a causal relationship. If a serious allergic reaction occurs, appropriate therapy 
should be administered, with close patient follow-up over several days.  Pegfilgrastim should be 
permanently discontinued in patients who experience a serious allergic reaction. 
 
Reversible, mild to moderate elevations in uric acid and alkaline phosphatase, with no associated 
clinical effects, were common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10); reversible, mild to moderate elevations in lactate 
dehydrogenase, with no associated clinical effects, were very common (≥ 1/10) in patients receiving 
Neupopeg following cytotoxic chemotherapy. Nausea was observed in healthy volunteers and patients 
receiving chemotherapy. 
 
Common (≥ 1/100 to <1/10) but generally asymptomatic cases of splenomegaly and very rare cases of 
splenic rupture, including some fatal cases, have been reported following administration of 
pegfilgrastim (see section 4.4).  Other commonly reported undesirable effects include pain, injection 
site pain; chest pain (non-cardiac); headache; arthralgia; myalgia; back, limb, musculo-skeletal and 
neck pain. 
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) pulmonary adverse effects including interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary 
oedema, pulmonary infiltrates and pulmonary fibrosis have been reported. Some of the reported cases 
have resulted in respiratory failure or Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which may be 
fatal (see section 4.4) 
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) cases of thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis have been reported. 
 
Rare (≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) cases of Sweet’s syndrome have been reported, although in some cases 
underlying haematological malignancies may play a role.   
 
Very rare (< 1/10,000) events of cutaneous vasculitis have been reported in patients treated with 
Neupopeg. The mechanism of vasculitis in patients receiving Neupopeg is unknown. 
 
Very rare (< 1/10,000) elevations in liver function tests (LFTs) for ALT (alanine aminotransferase) or 
AST (aspartate aminotransferase), have been observed in patients after receiving pegfilgrastim 
following cytotoxic chemotherapy. These elevations are transient and return to baseline. 
 
Isolated cases of sickle cell crises have been reported in patients with sickle cell disease (see section 
4.4).  
 
4.9 Overdose 
 
There is no experience with overdose of Neupopeg in humans.   
 
 
5. PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 
 
5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties 
 
Pharmacotherapeutic group: Cytokines, ATC Code:  L03AA13 
 
Human granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a glycoprotein, which regulates the 
production and release of neutrophils from the bone marrow.  Pegfilgrastim is a covalent conjugate of 
recombinant human G-CSF (r-metHuG-CSF) with a single 20 kd polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecule.  
Pegfilgrastim is a sustained duration form of filgrastim due to decreased renal clearance.  
Pegfilgrastim and filgrastim have been shown to have identical modes of action, causing a marked 
increase in peripheral blood neutrophil counts within 24 hours, with minor increases in monocytes 

 



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and/or lymphocytes.  Similarly to filgrastim, neutrophils produced in response to pegfilgrastim show 
normal or enhanced function as demonstrated by tests of chemotactic and phagocytic function.  As 
with other haematopoietic growth factors, G-CSF has shown in vitro stimulating properties on human 
endothelial cells.  G-CSF can promote growth of myeloid cells, including malignant cells, in vitro and 
similar effects may be seen on some non-myeloid cells in vitro. 
 
In two randomised, double-blind, pivotal studies in patients with high risk stage II-IV breast cancer 
undergoing myelosuppressive chemotherapy consisting of doxorubicin and docetaxel, use of 
pegfilgrastim, as a single once per cycle dose, reduced the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of 
febrile neutropenia similarly to that observed with daily administrations of filgrastim (a median of 11 
daily administrations). In the absence of growth factor support, this regimen has been reported to result 
in a mean duration of grade 4 neutropenia of 5 to7 days, and a 30-40% incidence of febrile 
neutropenia. In one study (n=157), which used a 6mg fixed dose of pegfilgrastim the mean duration of 
grade 4 neutropenia for the pegfilgrastim group was 1.8 days compared with 1.6 days in the filgrastim 
group (difference 0.23 days, 95% CI -0.15, 0.63). Over the entire study, the rate of febrile neutropenia 
was 13% of pegfilgrastim-treated patients compared with 20% of filgrastim-treated patients 
(difference 7%, 95% CI of -19%, 5%). In a second study (n=310), which used a weight-adjusted dose 
(100 microgramsg/kg), the mean duration of grade 4 neutropenia for the pegfilgrastim group was 1.7 
days, compared with 1.8 days in the filgrastim group (difference 0.03 days, 95% CI -0.36, 0.30). The 
overall rate of febrile neutropenia was 9% of patients treated with pegfilgrastim and 18% of patients 
treated with filgrastim (difference 9%, 95% CI of -16.8%,-1.1%). 
 
In a placebo-controlled, double blind study in patients with breast cancer the effect of pegfilgrastim on 
the incidence of febrile neutropenia was evaluated following administration of a chemotherapy 
regimen associated with a febrile neutropenia rate of 10-20% (docetaxel 100 mg/m2  every 3 weeks for 
4 cycles). Nine hundred and twenty eight patients were randomised to receive either a single dose of 
pegfilgrastim or placebo approximately 24 hours (Day 2) after chemotherapy in each cycle. The 
incidence of febrile neutropenia was lower for patients randomised to receive pegfilgrastim compared 
with placebo (1% versus 17%, p<0.001). The incidence of hospitalisations and IV anti-infective use 
associated with a clinical diagnosis of febrile neutropenia was lower in the pegfilgrastim group 
compared with placebo (1% versus 14%, p<0.001; and 2% versus 10%, p<0.001) 
 
A small (n=83), Phase II, randomised, double-blind study in patients receiving chemotherapy for 
de novo acute myeloid leukaemia compared pegfilgrastim (single dose of 6 mg) with filgrastim, 
administered during induction chemotherapy.  Median time to recovery from severe neutropenia was 
estimated as 22 days in both treatment groups. Long term outcome was not studied (see section 4.4).  
 
5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties 
 
After a single subcutaneous dose of pegfilgrastim, the peak serum concentration of pegfilgrastim 
occurs at 16 to 120 hours after dosing and serum concentrations of pegfilgrastim are maintained during 
the period of neutropenia after myelosuppressive chemotherapy.  The elimination of pegfilgrastim is 
non-linear with respect to dose; serum clearance of pegfilgrastim decreases with increasing dose.    
Pegfilgrastim appears to be mainly eliminated by neutrophil mediated clearance, which becomes 
saturated at higher doses.  Consistent with a self-regulating clearance mechanism, the serum 
concentration of pegfilgrastim declines rapidly at the onset of neutrophil recovery (see Figure 1). 
 

 



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Figure 1.  Profile of Median Pegfilgrastim Serum Concentration and Absolute Neutrophil Count 
(ANC) in Chemotherapy Treated Patients after a Single 6 mg Injection 

 

Study Day

0 3 6 9 12 15 18 21

M
ed

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N

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 (c

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 x
 1

09
/l)

0.1

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10

100

Pegfilgrastim Conc.
ANC

 
 
Due to the neutrophil-mediated clearance mechanism, the pharmacokinetics of pegfilgrastim is not 
expected to be affected by renal or hepatic impairment.  In a open label, single dose study (n=31) 
various stages of renal impairment, including end-stage renal disease, had no impact on the 
pharmacokinetics of pegfilgrastim. 
 
Limited data indicate that the pharmacokinetics of pegfilgrastim in elderly subjects (> 65 years) is 
similar to that in adults.  
 
5.3 Preclinical safety data 
 
Preclinical data from conventional studies of repeated dose toxicity revealed the expected 
pharmacological effects including increases in leukocyte count, myeloid hyperplasia in bone marrow, 
extramedullary haematopoiesis and splenic enlargement.  
 
There were no adverse effects observed in offspring from pregnant rats given pegfilgrastim 
subcutaneously, but in rabbits pegfilgrastim has been shown to cause embryo/foetal toxicity (embryo 
loss) at low subcutaneous doses. In rat studies, it was shown that pegfilgrastim may cross the placenta. 
The relevance of these findings for humans is not known.  
 
 
6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS 
 
6.1 List of excipients 
 
Sodium acetate* 
Sorbitol (E420)  
Polysorbate 20 
Water for injections 
 
*Sodium acetate is formed by titrating glacial acetic acid with sodium hydroxide.  
 
6.2 Incompatibilities 
 
This medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products, particularly with sodium 
chloride solutions.   
 

 



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6.3 Shelf life 
 
30 months. 
 
6.4 Special precautions for storage 
 
Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C).   
 
Neupopeg may be exposed to room temperature (not above 30°C) for a maximum single period of up 
to 72 hours.  Neupopeg left at room temperature for more than 72 hours should be discarded.  
 
Do not freeze.  Accidental exposure to freezing temperatures for a single period of less than 24 hours 
does not adversely affect the stability of Neupopeg. 
 
Keep the container in the outer carton, in order to protect from light.  
 
6.5 Nature and contents of container 
 
The syringe inside the pen is made from Type I glass with a rubber stopper, and with a stainless steel 
needle; it contains 0.6 ml of solution for injection. Pack size of one, for single use only.   
 
The needle cover of the pre-filled pen contains dry natural rubber (a derivative of latex). See section 
4.4.
 
6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling 
 
The carton contains a package leaflet with the full instructions for use and handling. 
 
Before administration, Neupopeg solution should be inspected visually for  particulate matter.  Only a 
solution that is clear and colourless should be injected. Each pen may only be used once. 
 
Excessive shaking may aggregate pegfilgrastim, rendering it biologically inactive.  
 
Allow the pre-filled pen to reach room temperature before injecting. 
 
Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. 
 
 
7. MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
Via San Martino 12 
I-20122 Milan 
Italy 
 
 
8. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/02/228/003 
 
 
9. DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION 
 
Date of first authorisation: 22 August 2002 
Date of last renewal: 16 July 2007 
 
 

 



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10. DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT 
 
 
 
Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines 
Agency (EMEA) http://www.emea.europa.eu/

 

http://www.emea.eu.int/


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ANNEX II 
 
A. MANUFACTURER OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE 

SUBSTANCE AND MANUFACTURING AUTHORISATION 
HOLDER RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE 

 
B. CONDITIONS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION 
 

 



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A MANUFACTURER OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE SUBSTANCE AND 
MANUFACTURING AUTHORISATION HOLDER RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH 
RELEASE 

 
Name and address of the manufacturer of the biological active substance 
 
Amgen Inc. 
One Amgen Center Drive 
Thousand Oaks 
CA 91320 
USA 
 
Amgen Manufacturing Limited 
P.O Box 4060 
Road 31 km. 24.6 
Juncos 
Puerto Rico 00777-4060 
USA 
 
Name and address of the manufacturer responsible for batch release 
 
Amgen Europe BV 
Minervum 7061 
NL-4817 ZK Breda 
The Netherlands 

 
B CONDITIONS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION 
 
• CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE IMPOSED ON 

THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Medicinal product subject to restricted medical prescription (See Annex I: Summary of Product 
Characteristics, 4.2). 
 
• CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND 

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Not applicable. 
 

 



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ANNEX III 
 

LABELLING AND PACKAGE LEAFLET 

 



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A. LABELLING 

 



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PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING  
 
OUTER CARTON 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg solution for injection  
Pegfilgrastim 
 
 
2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 
 
Each pre-filled syringe contains 6 mg of pegfilgrastim in 0.6 ml (10 mg/ml) solution for injection. 
 
 
3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 
 
Excipients: sodium acetate, sorbitol (E420), polysorbate 20, water for injections. 
 
Excipients known to have a recognised action: sorbitol (E420), sodium acetate.  
 
See leaflet for further information. 
 
 
4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 
 
Solution for injection in a single use pre-filled syringe (0.6 ml). Pack size of one. 
 
 
5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
For subcutaneous use. 
Read the package leaflet before use. 
 
 
6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE REACH AND SIGHT OF CHILDREN 
 
Keep out of the reach and sight of children. 
 
 
7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 
 
Avoid vigorous shaking.  
 
 
8. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP.: 
 
 

 



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9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 
 
Store in a refrigerator. 
Do not freeze. 
Keep the container in the outer carton, in order to protect from light. 
 
 
10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE 

 
 
11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
Via San Martino 12 
I-20122 Milan 
Italy 
 
 
12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/02/228/001 
 
 
13. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot: 
 
 
14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 
 
Medicinal product subject to medical prescription. 
 
 
15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 
 
 
16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 
 
Neupopeg 

 



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MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON BLISTERS OR STRIPS 
 
BLISTER PACK WITH SYRINGE  
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg injection 
Pegfilgrastim 
 
 
2. NAME OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
 
 
3. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP.: 
 
 
4. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot: 
 
 
5. OTHER 
 
 
 
 

 



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MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 
 
BLISTERED SYRINGE LABEL 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg 
Pegfilgrastim 
SC 
 
 
2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
 
3. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP.: 
 
 
4. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot: 
 
 
5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT 
 
0.6 ml 
 
 
6. OTHER  
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 

 



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PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING  
 
UNBLISTERED SYRINGE OUTER CARTON 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg solution for injection  
Pegfilgrastim 
 
 
2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 
 
Each pre-filled syringe contains 6 mg of pegfilgrastim in 0.6 ml (10 mg/ml) solution for injection. 
 
 
3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 
 
Excipients: sodium acetate, sorbitol (E420), polysorbate 20, water for injections. 
 
Excipients known to have a recognised action: sorbitol (E420), sodium acetate.  
 
See leaflet for further information. 
 
 
4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 
 
Solution for injection in a single use pre-filled syringe (0.6 ml). Pack size of one.  
 
 
5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
For subcutaneous use. 
Read the package leaflet before use. 
 
 
8. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP.: 
 
 
9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 
 
Store in a refrigerator. 
Do not freeze. 
Keep the container in the outer carton, in order to protect from light. 
 
 
10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE 

 
 

 



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11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
Via San Martino 12 
I-20122 Milan 
Italy 
 
 
12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/02/228/002 
 
 
13. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot: 
 
 
14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 
 
Medicinal product subject to medical prescription. 
 
 
15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 
 
 
16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 
 
Neupopeg 

 



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MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 
 
UNBLISTERED SYRINGE LABEL 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg injection 
Pegfilgrastim 
SC 
 
 
2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
 
3. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP.: 
 
 
4. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot: 
 
 
5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT 
 
0.6 ml 
 
 
6. OTHER  
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
 

 

 



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PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING  
 
OUTER CARTON 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg solution for injection in a pre-filled pen 
Pegfilgrastim 
 
 
2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 
 
Each pre-filled pen contains 6 mg of pegfilgrastim in 0.6 ml (10 mg/ml) solution for injection. 
 
 
3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 
 
Excipients: sodium acetate, sorbitol (E420), polysorbate 20, water for injections. 
 
Excipients known to have a recognised action: sorbitol (E420), sodium acetate.  
 
See leaflet for further information. 
 
 
4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 
 
Solution for injection in a single use pre-filled pen (0.6 ml). Pack size of one.  
 
 
5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
For subcutaneous use. 
Read the package leaflet before use. 
 
 
6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE REACH AND SIGHT OF CHILDREN 
 
Keep out of the reach and sight of children. 
 
 
7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 
 
Avoid vigorous shaking.  
 
 
8. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP.: 
 
 

 



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9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 
 
Store in a refrigerator. 
Do not freeze. 
Keep the container in the outer carton, in order to protect from light. 
 
 
10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE 

 
 
11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
Via San Martino 12 
I-20122 Milan 
Italy 
 
 
12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 
 
EU/1/02/228/003 
 
 
13. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot: 
 
 
14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 
 
Medicinal product subject to medical prescription. 
 
 
15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 
 
 
16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 
 
Neupopeg 

 



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MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 
 
PRE-FILLED PEN LABEL 
 
 
1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
Neupopeg 6 mg injection 
Pegfilgrastim 
SC 
 
 
2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION 
 
 
3. EXPIRY DATE 
 
EXP.: 
 
 
4. BATCH NUMBER 
 
Lot: 
 
 
5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT 
 
0.6 ml 
 
 
6. OTHER  
 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
 

 



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B. PACKAGE LEAFLET 

 



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PACKAGE LEAFLET: INFORMATION FOR THE USER 
 

Neupopeg 6 mg solution for injection in a pre-filled syringe 
pegfilgrastim 

 
 

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start using this medicine. 
 
- Keep this leaflet.  You may need to read it again. 
- If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 
- This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others.  It may harm them, even 

if their symptoms are the same as yours. 
- If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, 

please tell your doctor or pharmacist. 
 
 
In this leaflet 
 
1. What Neupopeg is and what it is used for 
2. Before you use Neupopeg 
3. How to use Neupopeg 
4. Possible side effects 
5. How to store Neupopeg 
6. Further information  
 
 
1. WHAT NEUPOPEG IS AND WHAT IT IS USED FOR 
 
Neupopeg is used to reduce the duration of neutropenia (low white blood cell count) and the 
occurrence of febrile neutropenia (low white blood cell count with a fever) which can be caused by the 
use of cytotoxic chemotherapy (medicines that destroy rapidly growing cells).  White blood cells are 
important as they help your body fight infection.  These cells are very sensitive to the effects of 
chemotherapy which can cause the number of these cells in your body to decrease.  If white blood 
cells fall to a low level there may not be enough left in the body to fight bacteria and you may have an 
increased risk of infection. 
 
Your doctor has given you Neupopeg to encourage your bone marrow (part of the bone which makes 
blood cells) to produce more white blood cells that help your body fight infection.   
 
 
2. BEFORE YOU USE NEUPOPEG 
 
Do not use Neupopeg 
 
• if you are hypersensitive (allergic) to pegfilgrastim, filgrastim, E. coli derived proteins, or any 

of the other ingredients of Neupopeg. 
 
Take special care with Neupopeg 
 
Please tell your doctor: 
 
• if you experience a cough, fever and difficulty breathing;  
 
• if you have sickle cell anaemia; 
 
• if you get left upper abdominal pain or pain at the tip of your shoulder. 
 

 



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• if you have an allergy to latex. The needle cover on the pre-filled syringe contains a derivative 
of latex and may cause severe allergic reactions.  

 
Using other medicines 
 
Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, 
including medicines obtained without a prescription. 
 
Pregnancy and breast-feeding 
 
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine.  Neupopeg has not been tested 
in pregnant women.  It is important to tell your doctor if you: 
 
• are pregnant; 
 
• think you may be pregnant; or 
 
• plan to become pregnant. 
 
You must stop breast feeding if you use Neupopeg.  
 
Driving and Using Machines 
 
The effect of Neupopeg on the ability to drive or use machines is not known. 
 
Important information about some of the ingredients of Neupopeg 
 
Neupopeg contains sorbitol (a type of sugar). If you have been told by your doctor that you have an 
intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking Neupopeg.  Neupopeg is essentially 
sodium-free. 
 
 
3. HOW TO USE NEUPOPEG 
 
Neupopeg is for use in adults aged 18 and over.  
 
Always take Neupopeg exactly as your doctor has told you.  You should check with your doctor or 
pharmacist if you are unsure.  The usual dose is one 6 mg subcutaneous injection (injection under your 
skin) using a pre-filled syringe and it should be given approximately 24 hours after your last dose of 
chemotherapy at the end of each chemotherapy cycle. 
 
Do not shake Neupopeg vigorously as this may affect its activity 
 
Injecting Neupopeg yourself 
 
Your doctor may decide that it would be more convenient for you to inject Neupopeg yourself.  Your 
doctor or nurse will show you how to inject yourself.  Do not try to inject yourself if you have not 
been trained. 
 
For further instructions on how to inject yourself with Neupopeg, please read the section  at the end of 
this leaflet. 
 
If you use more Neupopeg than you should 
 
If you use more Neupopeg than you should contact your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.  
 

 



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If you forget to inject Neupopeg 
 
If you have forgotten a dose of Neupopeg, you should contact your doctor to discuss when you should 
inject the next dose. 
 
 
4. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS 
 
Like all medicines, Neupopeg can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. 
 
A very common side effect (likely to occur in more than 1 in 10 patients) is bone pain.  Your doctor 
will tell you what you can take to ease the bone pain. 
 
Common side effects (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 10 patients) include; pain and redness at the 
site of the injection, headaches, and general aches and pains in the joints, muscles, chest, limbs, neck 
or back. An uncommon side effect (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 100 patients) is nausea.  
 
Allergic-type reactions to Neupopeg, including redness and flushing, skin rash, raised areas of the skin 
that itch and anaphylaxis (weakness, drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face), 
have rarely (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 1000 patients) been reported. 
 
Increased spleen size and very rare cases (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients)) of spleen 
rupture have been reported after the use of Neupopeg.  Some cases of splenic rupture were fatal. 
 
It is important that you contact your doctor immediately if you experience pain in the upper left side of 
the abdomen or left shoulder pain since this may relate to a problem with your spleen. 
 
Rare (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 1000 patients)cases of breathing problems have been reported 
after taking G-CSFs. If you have a cough, fever and difficulty breathing please tell your doctor.    
 
Some changes may occur in your blood, but these will be detected by routine blood tests.  Your 
platelet count may become low which might result in bruising.  Your white blood cell count may 
become high for a short period of time. 
 
Sweet’s syndrome (plum-coloured, raised, painful lesions on the limbs and sometimes the face and 
neck with fever) has occurred very rarely (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 1,000 patients) but other 
factors may play a role. 
 
Very rarely (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients) cutaneous vasculitis (inflammation of 
the blood vessels in the skin) has occurred in patients receiving Neupopeg. 
 
If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please 
tell your doctor or pharmacist. 
 
 
5. HOW TO STORE NEUPOPEG 
 
Keep out of the reach and sight of children. 
 
Do not use Neupopeg after the expiry date which is stated on the box and on the syringe label (EXP).  
The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.  
 
Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C).   
 
You may take Neupopeg out of the refrigerator and keep it at room temperature (not above 30°C) for 
no longer than 3 days.  Once a syringe has been removed from the refrigerator and has reached room 
temperature (not above 30°C) it must either be used within 3 days or disposed of.  

 



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Do not freeze.  Neupopeg may be used if it is accidentally frozen for a single period of less than 
24 hours. 
 
Keep the container in the outer carton in order to protect from light.  
 
Do not use Neupopeg if you notice it is cloudy or there are particles in it.   
 
Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 
dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment. 
 
 
6. FURTHER INFORMATION  
 
What Neupopeg contains 
 
Neupopeg contains the active substance pegfilgrastim.  Pegfilgrastim is a protein produced by 
biotechnology in bacteria called E. coli.  It belongs to a group of proteins called cytokines, and is very 
similar to a natural protein (granulocyte-colony stimulating factor) produced by your own body.  
 
The active substance is pegfilgrastim.  Each pre-filled syringe contains 6 mg of pegfilgrastim in 0.6 ml 
of solution. 
 
The other ingredients are sodium acetate, sorbitol (E420), polysorbate 20 and water for injections. 
 
What Neupopeg looks like and contents of the pack 
 
Neupopeg is a solution for injection in a pre-filled syringe (6 mg/0.6 ml).    
 
Each pack contains 1 pre-filled syringe.  The syringes are provided either with or without a blister 
wrapping.  It is a clear, colourless liquid. 
 
Manufacturer: 
Amgen Europe B.V. 
Minervum 7061  
4817 ZK Breda 
The Netherlands 
 
Marketing Authorisation Holder: 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
Via San Martino 12 
I-20122 Milan 
Italy 
 
Further information 
 
If you want more information about this medicine, please contact the local representative of the 
Marketing Authorisation Holder. 
 
This leaflet was last approved. 
 
Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) web 
site: http://www.emea.europa.eu/
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
 

 

http://www.emea.eu.int/


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Instructions for injecting with the Neupopeg pre-filled syringe 
 
This section contains information on how to give yourself an injection of Neupopeg.  It is important 
that you do not try to give yourself the injection unless you have received training from your doctor, 
nurse, or pharmacist.   If you have questions about how to inject, please ask your doctor, nurse, 
pharmacist for assistance. 
 
How do you, or the person injecting you, use Neupopeg pre-filled syringe? 
 
You will need to give yourself the injection into the tissue just under the skin.  This is known as a 
subcutaneous injection. 
 
Equipment that you need 
 
To give yourself a subcutaneous injection you will need:  
 
• a pre-filled syringe of Neupopeg; and 
 
• alcohol wipes or similar. 
 
What should I do before I give myself a subcutaneous injection of Neupopeg? 
 
1. Remove from the refrigerator. 
 
2. Do not shake the pre-filled syringe. 
 
3. Do not remove the cover from the syringe until you are ready to inject. 
 
4. 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. 
 
5. Check the appearance of Neupopeg.  It must be a clear and colourless liquid.  If there are 

particles in it, you must not use it. 
 
6. For a more comfortable injection, let the pre-filled syringe stand for 30 minutes to reach room 

temperature or hold the pre-filled syringe gently in your hand for a few minutes.  Do not warm 
Neupopeg in any other way (for example, do not warm it in a microwave or in hot water). 

 
7. Wash your hands thoroughly. 
 
8. Find a comfortable, well-lit, clean surface and put all the equipment you need within reach. 
 
How do I prepare my Neupopeg injection? 
 
Before you inject Neupopeg you must do the following: 
 

1. Hold the syringe barrel and gently take the cover from the needle 
without twisting.  Pull straight as shown in pictures 1 and 2.  Do not 
touch the needle or push the plunger. 

 
2. 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. 

 
3. You can now use the pre-filled syringe. 

 



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Where should I give my injection? 

 
The most suitable places to inject yourself are: 
 
• the top of your thighs; and 
• the abdomen, except for the area around the navel. 
 
If someone else is injecting you, they can also use the back of your arms. 
 

How do I give my injection? 
 
1. Disinfect your skin by using an alcohol wipe and pinch the skin between your thumb and 

forefinger, without squeezing it. 
 
2. Put the needle fully into the skin as shown by your nurse or doctor. 
 
3. Pull slightly on the plunger to check that a blood vessel has not been punctured.  If you see 

blood in the syringe, remove the needle and re-insert it in another place. 
 
4. Inject the liquid slowly and evenly, always keeping your skin pinched. 
 
5. After injecting the liquid, remove the needle and let go of your skin. 
 
6. If you notice a spot of blood at the injection site dab away with a cotton ball or tissues.  Do not 

rub the injection site.  If needed, you may cover the injection site with a bandage. 
 
7. Only use each syringe for one injection.  Do not use any Neupopeg that is left in the syringe. 
 
Remember  
 
If you have any problems, please do not be afraid to ask your doctor or nurse for help and advice. 
 
Disposing of used syringes 
 
• Do not put the cover back on used needles. 
 
• Keep used syringes out of the reach and sight of children. 
 
• The used syringe should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.  Ask your 

pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect 
the environment. 

 



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PACKAGE LEAFLET: INFORMATION FOR THE USER 
 

Neupopeg 6 mg solution for injection in a pre-filled pen  
pegfilgrastim 

 
Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start using this medicine. 
 
- Keep this leaflet.  You may need to read it again. 
- If you have further questions, please ask your doctor or your pharmacist. 
- This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others.  It may harm them, even 

if their symptoms are the same as yours. 
- If  any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, 

please tell your doctor or pharmacist. 
 
 
In this leaflet 
 
1. What Neupopeg is and what it is used for 
2. Before you use Neupopeg 
3. How to use Neupopeg 
4. Possible side effects 
5. How to store Neupopeg 
6. Further information  
 
 
1. WHAT NEUPOPEG IS AND WHAT IT IS USED FOR 
 
Neupopeg is used to reduce the duration of neutropenia (low white blood cell count) and the 
occurrence of febrile neutropenia (low white blood cell count with a fever) which can be caused by the 
use of cytotoxic chemotherapy (medicines that destroy rapidly growing cells).  White blood cells are 
important as they help your body fight infection.  These cells are very sensitive to the effects of 
chemotherapy which can cause the number of these cells in your body to decrease.  If white blood 
cells fall to a low level there may not be enough left in the body to fight bacteria and you may have an 
increased risk of infection. 
 
Your doctor has given you Neupopeg to encourage your bone marrow (part of the bone which makes 
blood cells) to produce more white blood cells that help your body fight infection.   
 
 
2. BEFORE YOU USE NEUPOPEG 
 
Do not use Neupopeg 
 
• if you are hypersensitive (allergic) to pegfilgrastim, filgrastim, E. coli derived proteins, or any 

of the other ingredients of Neupopeg. 
 
Take special care with Neupopeg 
 
Please tell your doctor: 
 
• if you experience a cough, fever and difficulty breathing;  
 
• if you have sickle cell anaemia;  
 
• if you get left upper abdominal pain or pain at the tip of your shoulder. 
 

 



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• if you have an allergy to latex. The needle cover on the pre-filled pen contains a derivative of 
latex and may cause severe allergic reactions.  

 
Using other medicines 
 
Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, 
including medicines obtained without a prescription. 
 
Pregnancy and breast-feeding 
 
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine.  Neupopeg has not been tested 
in pregnant women.  It is important to tell your doctor if you: 
 
• are pregnant; 
 
• think you may be pregnant; or 
 
• plan to become pregnant. 
 
You must stop breast feeding if you use Neupopeg.  
 
Driving and Using Machines 
 
The effect of Neupopeg on the ability to drive or use machines is not known. 
 
Important information about some of the ingredients of Neupopeg 
 
Neupopeg contains sorbitol (a type of sugar). If you have been told by your doctor that you have an 
intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking Neupopeg.  Neupopeg is essentially 
sodium-free. 
 
 
3. HOW TO USE NEUPOPEG 
 
Neupopeg is for use in adults aged 18 and over.  
 
Always take Neupopeg exactly as your doctor has told you.  You should check with your doctor or 
pharmacist if you are unsure.  The usual dose is one 6 mg subcutaneous injection (injection under your 
skin) using a pre-filled syringe and it should be given approximately 24 hours after your last dose of 
chemotherapy at the end of each chemotherapy cycle. 
 
Do not shake Neupopeg vigorously as this may affect its activity 
 
Injecting Neupopeg yourself 
 
Your doctor has decided it would be best for you to inject Neupopeg yourself.  Your doctor or nurse 
will show you how to inject yourself.  Do not try to inject yourself if you have not been trained. 
 
For further instructions on how to inject yourself with Neupopeg, please read the section at the end of 
this leaflet. 
 
If you use more Neupopeg than you should 
 
If you use more Neupopeg than you should contact your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.  
 

 



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If you forget to inject Neupopeg 
 
If you have forgotten a dose of Neupopeg, you should contact your doctor to discuss when you should 
inject the next dose. 
 
 
4. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS 
 
Like all medicines, Neupopeg can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. 
 
A very common side effect (likely to occur in more than 1 in 10 patients) is bone pain.  Your doctor 
will tell you what you can take to ease the bone pain. 
 
Common side effects (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 10 patients) include; pain and redness at the 
site of the injection, headaches, and general aches and pains in the joints, muscles, chest, limbs, neck 
or back. An uncommon side effect (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 100 patients) is nausea.  
 
Allergic-type reactions to Neupopeg, including redness and flushing, skin rash, raised areas of the skin 
that itch and anaphylaxis (weakness, drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face), 
have rarely (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 1000 patients) been reported. 
 
Increased spleen size and very rare cases (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients)) of spleen 
rupture have been reported after the use of Neupopeg.  Some cases of splenic rupture were fatal. 
 
It is important that you contact your doctor immediately if you experience pain in the upper left side of 
the abdomen or left shoulder pain since this may relate to a problem with your spleen. 
 
Rare (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 1000 patients)cases of breathing problems have been reported 
after taking G-CSFs. If you have a cough, fever and difficulty breathing please tell your doctor.    
 
Some changes may occur in your blood, but these will be detected by routine blood tests.  Your 
platelet count may become low which might result in bruising.  Your white blood cell count may 
become high for a short period of time. 
 
Sweet’s syndrome (plum-coloured, raised, painful lesions on the limbs and sometimes the face and 
neck with fever) has occurred very rarely (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients) but other 
factors may play a role. 
 
Very rarely (likely to occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients) cutaneous vasculitis (inflammation of 
the blood vessels in the skin) has occurred in patients receiving Neupopeg. 
 
If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please 
tell your doctor or pharmacist. 
 
 
5. HOW TO STORE NEUPOPEG 
 
Keep out of the reach and sight of children. 
 
Do not use Neupopeg after the expiry date which is stated on the box and on the pen label (EXP).  The 
expiry date refers to the last day of that month.  
 
Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C).   
 
You may take Neupopeg out of the refrigerator and keep it at room temperature (not above 30°C) for 
no longer than 3 days.  Once a pre-filled pen has been removed from the refrigerator and has reached 
room temperature (not above 30°C) it must either be used within 3 days or disposed of.  

 



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Do not freeze.  Neupopeg may be used if it is accidentally frozen for a single period of less than 
24 hours. 
 
Keep the container in the outer carton in order to protect from light.  
 
Do not use Neupopeg if you notice it is cloudy or there are particles in it.   
 
Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 
dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment. 
 
 
6. FURTHER INFORMATION  
 
Neupopeg contains the active substance pegfilgrastim.  Pegfilgrastim is a protein produced by 
biotechnology in bacteria called E. coli.  It belongs to a group of proteins called cytokines, and is very 
similar to a natural protein (granulocyte-colony stimulating factor) produced by your own body.  
 
What Neupopeg contains 
 
The active substance is pegfilgrastim.  Each pre-filled pen contains 6 mg of pegfilgrastim in 0.6 ml of 
solution. 
 
The other ingredients are sodium acetate, sorbitol (E420), polysorbate 20 and water for injections. 
 
What Neupopeg looks like and contents of the pack 
 
Neupopeg is a solution for injection in a pre-filled pen (6 mg/0.6 ml).   
 
Each pack contains 1 pre-filled pen.  It is a clear, colourless liquid. 
 
Manufacturer: 
Amgen Europe B.V. 
Minervum 7061  
4817 ZK Breda 
The Netherlands 
 
Marketing Authorisation Holder: 
Dompé Biotec S.p.A. 
Via San Martino 12 
I-20122 Milan 
Italy 
 
Further information 
 
If you want more information about this medicine, please contact the local representative of the 
Marketing Authorisation Holder. 
 
This leaflet was last approved. 
 
Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) web 
site: http://www.emea.europa.eu/
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

 

http://www.emea.eu.int/


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Instructions for injecting with the Neupopeg pre-filled pen (SureClick) 
 
This section contains information on how to properly use the Neupopeg pre-filled pen.  It is important 
that you do not try to give yourself the injection unless you have received training from your doctor, 
nurse, or pharmacist.   If you have questions about how to inject, please ask your doctor, nurse, 
pharmacist for assistance. 
 
How do you, or the person injecting you, use Neupopeg pre-filled pen (SureClick)? 
 
You will need to give yourself the injection into the tissue just under the skin.  This is called a 
subcutaneous injection.  
 
Equipment: 
 
To give yourself a subcutaneous injection you will need: 
 
• a new Neupopeg pre-filled pen and  
 
• alcohol wipes or similar. 
 
Preparing for a Neupopeg injection? 
 
1. Remove from the refrigerator.  
 
2. Do not shake the pre-filled pen. 
 
3.  Do not remove the grey needle shield from the pre-filled pen until you are ready to inject.  
 
4. Check the expiry date on the pre-filled pen label (EXP:).  Do not use it if the date has passed the 

last day of the month shown 
 
5. Check the appearance of Neupopeg through the inspection window.  It must be a clear and 

colourless liquid.  If there are particles in it, you must not use it. 
 
6. For a more comfortable injection, leave at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.  Do 

not warm Neupopeg in any other way (for example, do not warm it in a microwave or in hot 
water).   

 
7. Wash your hands thoroughly. 
 
8. Find a comfortable, well-lit, clean place and put all the equipment you need within reach.   
 

 

 



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Before use (with grey needle 

shield) 

 
Before use (without grey needle 

shield) 

 
After use (needle safety cover 

down) 
 
 

Safety cover 
out 

Safety cover 
fully retracted

At start, keep thumb clear of 
green button 

Where should I give my injection? 
 
To perform a successful injection a firm injection area is required. 
 
The recommended sites for injection using the pre-filled pen are the 
top of the thigh and the back of the arm if given by a nurse or carer 
(see picture 1). 
 
The abdomen can be considered when the thigh and back of arm are 
judged by a healthcare professional to be inappropriate. 

 

How to give an injection into the thigh or back of the arm 
 
• Disinfect your skin by using an alcohol wipe. 
 
• Remove the grey needle shield (see picture 2). 

 

• The pre-filled pen has a safety cover that will protect you from 
needle sticks or loss of medicine by accidental bumping or 
touching. 

 
Important information for Step A of the injecting process. 
Press the pre-filled pen firmly enough against the skin so that the 
safety cover is fully retracted (see picture 3). 

 

A. Place the pre-filled pen on the injection site at a right angle 
(90 degrees) and push firmly against the skin. Hold down (see 
picture). 

 

2. 

1. 

3. 

A. 

 



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2 release 

1 press 

Safety cover 
out 

Safety cover 
fully retracted

B. While holding the pre-filled pen in place, (1) press and (2) 
release the green button on top. You will hear a “click”. Do not 
lift the pre-filled pen. 

 

C. After the second “click” (or count of 15) lift pre-filled pen 
from the injection site. 

 

If you experience difficulties choose a more firm injection site. 
 
The needle safety cover will move down over the needle and lock into place. The inspection window 
will be green, confirming the injection is complete. 
 
If you notice a spot of blood at the injection site dab away with a cotton ball or tissues.  Do not rub the 
injection site.  If needed, you may cover the injection site with a bandage. 
 
Only use a single Neupopeg pre-filled pen for each injection.   
 
How to inject into the abdomen 
 
Important skin pinch technique 
 
The objective of the skin pinch technique is to create a firm site for the 
injection 
 
Choose a site at least 5 cm away from the belly button (navel) (see 
picture 4). 
 
Pinch the skin of the abdomen firmly between the thumb and fingers 
creating a space at least 3 cm wide (twice the width of the tip of the 
pre-filled pen). Maintain firm skin pinch for entire procedure (see 
picture 5). 
 

 
 

Important information for Step A of the injecting process. 
Press the pre-filled pen firmly enough against the skin so that the 
safety cover is fully retracted (see picture 6). 
 
The pre-filled pen has a safety cover that will protect you from needle 
sticks or loss of drug by accidental bumping or touching. 

 

B. 

C. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

 



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At start, keep thumb clear 
of green button 

2 release 

1 press 

A. Centre the pre-filled pen in the area of the pinched skin at a right 
angle (90 degrees) and push firmly against the skin. Hold down. 

 

B. Maintaining firm skin pinch, (1) press and (2) release the green 
button on top. You will hear a “click”.  Do not lift the pre-
filled pen.  

 

C. After the second “click” (or a count of 15) lift the pre-filled 
pen from the injection site.  

 
If you experience difficulties choose a more firm injection site.

A. 

B. 

C. 

 
 

The needle safety cover will move down over the needle and lock into place. The inspection window 
will be green, confirming the injection is complete. 
 
If you notice a spot of blood at the injection site dab away with a cotton ball or tissues.  Do not rub the 
injection site.  If needed, you may cover the injection site with a bandage. 
 
Only use a single Neupopeg pre-filled pen for each injection.   

 
Remember 
 
If you have any problems, please do not be afraid to ask your doctor or nurse for help and advice. 
 
Disposing of used pre-filled pens 
 
• Due to the protective safety cover it is not recommended to put the grey needle shield back on 

the used pre-filled pen. 
 
• Keep used pens out of the reach and sight of children. 
 
• The used pre-filled pen should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.  Ask your 

pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect 
the environment 

 

 


	SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
	A MANUFACTURER OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE SUBSTANCE ANDMANUFACTURING AUTHORISATION HOLDER RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE
	B CONDITIONS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION
	A. LABELLING
	B. PACKAGE LEAFLET