I had neupogen for 5 days after chemo. My husband was able to give it to me at home via a shot. I had some bone ache and at times felt like I had the flu. It did help keep my white cells elevated during my AC.

I had FEC x 3, followed by Taxotere x 3 - every 3 weeks. My blood counts were always okay, I did not need Neupogen/Neulasta.

I believe the protocol here in Ontario is to wait and see if someone needs these drugs. Yes, sometimes you may have to wait a week for chemo if your counts are low, but then I believe the shots are given for each succeeding treatment. I do not think this is a bad thing - as Becky stated, these drugs are not "child's play" - why take it if you don't need it? They are also expensive - again, why waste money if it is unnecessary?

all the best
caya

Thank everyone for the information. Saw my onc today.She agreed that I should have neulasta after each dose of docetaxol and herceptin due to my previous febrile neutropenia whilst on AC.She did warn me that I may have side effects such as bad bone and muscle pain but I felt this was better than another bout of hospitalisation with neutropenia!

Good news Ellie, You'll be ok.

I got neulasta the day after my adriamycin/cytoxin infusions. WHen I moved on to Taxol, I did not get neulasta. My oncologist said I probably wouldn't need it and he was right. I tolerated Taxol well. Hope you won't need it, but it's there if you do. Yes, it's expensive. My insurance paid.

Thanks all for the information on neulasta. Got first shot on Thursday after doxetaxol and herceptin on Wednesday. Have had bone pain in thighs and hips for past day and generally a bit achy. Difficult to know whether its the chemo or the neulasta thats responsible!
Certainly knowing this was possible, thanks to you all ,has helped me cope with it.

Just wanted to let you know I appreciate you all.

Please pray this treatment helps me stay NED

Love Ellie