provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content

Leukine

sargramostim
Used for Neutropenia
Used for Neutropenia

Leukine (sargramostim) helps your body grow new blood cells or recover from low blood cell counts. This can help lower your risk of other complications, such as infection. Leukine (sargramostim) can be used after certain types of chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, or radiation. It's given as an injection daily, either through the veins or under the skin. This medication is only available as a brand name, there's currently no lower-cost generic version. Common side effects of Leukine (sargramostim) include fever, diarrhea, and lack of energy.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on June 13, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Leukine (sargramostim) ?

What is Leukine (sargramostim) used for?

  • Growth or recovery of new blood cells after:

    • Chemotherapy to treat certain types of blood cancers (adults age 55 years and older)

    • Bone marrow transplant (adults and children ages 2 years and older)

  • To prepare the body for stem cell collection for stem cell transplant (adults only)

  • Raise the chance of survival after exposure to acute radiation (adults and children)

How Leukine (sargramostim) works

Leukine (sargramostim) is a granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). It works like the naturally occurring GM-CSF protein in your body to stimulate (trigger) bone marrow to make neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps your body fight infections.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLeukine
Drug ClassColony stimulating factor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$4896.16(save 12.01%)
GoodRx discount
$4308.15
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Leukine (sargramostim) ?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Fever (95%)
  • Nausea (90%)
  • Diarrhea (89%)
  • Vomiting (85%)
  • Blisters or sores in sensitive skin areas (75%)
  • Hair loss (73%)
  • Weakness or lack of energy (up to 66%)
  • Low appetite or stomach-related problems (up to 54%)
  • Rash (44%)
  • Swelling (34%)
  • Stomach bleeds (27%)

Other Side Effects

  • Mouth sores
  • Trouble breathing
  • Bleeds
  • Urinary tract infections
Please note: These side effects were reported in clinical trials by people who received Leukine (sargramostim) after bone marrow transplant. The side effects you experience might be different if you're being treated for a different condition.

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Infusion-related reactions: trouble breathing, flushing, dizziness, fainting, fast heartbeat
  • Serious allergic reaction: rash, swelling around your mouth or eyes, trouble breathing, wheezing
  • Too much body fluid: sudden weight gain, welling in feet or ankles, trouble breathing, dizziness, feeling tired
  • Abnormal heart rhythm

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Black, tarry stools

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

blood in the eye

bloody nose

blurred vision

body aches or pain

bone pain

chest pain

cloudy urine

congestion

cough

decrease in urine output or decrease in urine-concentrating ability

difficult or labored breathing

drowsiness

dry mouth

dryness or soreness of the throat

eye pain

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

fever

flushed, dry skin

fruit-like breath odor

hoarseness

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

irregular heartbeat

large amount of cholesterol in the blood

loss of appetite

mood or mental changes

muscle spasms

nausea

rapid weight gain

redness in whites of eyes

runny nose

stomach pain

sweating

tender, swollen glands in the neck

tightness in the chest

tingling of the hands or feet

trouble with swallowing

trembling

twitching

unusual tiredness or weakness

unusual weight gain or loss

voice changes

vomiting

vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

yellow eyes or skin

Incidence not known

Chills

confusion

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

general feeling of illness

headache

pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves

severe, sudden headache

slurred speech

sudden loss of coordination

sudden, severe weakness or numbness in the arm or leg

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Diarrhea

difficulty in moving

fear or nervousness

itching skin

lack or loss of strength

muscle pain or stiffness

pain in the joints

trouble sleeping

Incidence not known

Bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site

feeling of warmth

redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Leukine (sargramostim)

thumbs-up

Pros

Stimulates the growth of many different cells

When used for exposure to radiation, it can be used in people of all ages

Doesn't have a risk of ruptured spleen or sickle cell crisis like G-CSF medications (e.g., Neupogen (filgrastim))

thumbs-down

Cons

Can only be used after induction chemotherapy for AML in people age 55 years and older

Can cause bone pain

Not available as a generic

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Leukine (sargramostim)

pharmacist

  • You might be able to receive Leukine (sargramostim) at home if your healthcare provider says it's safe to do so. If you're going to inject the medication at home, make sure you or your caregiver understand how to use the medication properly before leaving your provider's office.

    • Don't change your dose or stop this medication without first talking to your provider.

      • Leukine (sargramostim) shouldn't be given within 24 hours of chemotherapy or radiation. Make sure you know your treatment schedule and know when you should administer Leukine (sargramostim)

        • If you miss or forget your dose, contact your provider for further instructions.

          • Store Leukine (sargramostim) in the refrigerator (not in the freezer). Keep it in its original container to protect it from light, and don't shake it.

            • Check each vial before using the medication. Don't inject if Leukine (sargramostim) contains any particles (solid chunks), flakes, is discolored, or foamy.

              • Once the vial of Leukine (sargramostim) is opened, it can be kept in the refrigerator for 20 days. It can be helpful to write the date that you first used the vial or the date it will expire. Discard any remaining solution after 20 days.

                • Don't reuse needles, and throw them away in a sharps container after use to prevent needlestick injuries.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Leukine (sargramostim)

                  When is it safe to administer Leukine (sargramostim) ?
                  Your provider will let you know when it's safe to start Leukine (sargramostim) treatment. The timing can differ depending on why you're receiving this medication. For example, if you're receiving Leukine (sargramostim) after chemotherapy, your provider might ask you to wait 24 hours or longer after the end of your chemotherapy to begin treatment. Ask your provider when you'll begin Leukine (sargramostim) .
                  Can Leukine (sargramostim) injections cause nausea?
                  Nausea is a common side effect of Leukine (sargramostim) reported by people in clinical studies. But it's tough to tell whether the nausea is caused by Leukine (sargramostim) or another medication. For example, in a study of people who received Leukine (sargramostim) and placebo after bone marrow transplant, both groups reported nausea as a common side effect. If you feel nauseous after your dose, talk with your provider.
                  How do you give Leukine (sargramostim) injections?
                  Leukine (sargramostim) can be given as a slow IV infusion through the veins or as an injection under the skin, depending on your medical condition. If you're getting Leukine (sargramostim) as an IV infusion, your healthcare provider will give it to you in a hospital or clinic setting. If you're receiving Leukine (sargramostim) as an injection under the skin, you might be able to give yourself the injection if your provider says its safe to do so. The injection can be given under the skin around your stomach, thigh, or outer area of your upper arms. Rotate the injection sites every day. Avoid injecting the medication in areas that are tender, red, bruised, hard, or scarred.
                  What's the difference between Leukine (sargramostim) and Neupogen (filgrastim)?
                  GM-CSF medications like Leukine (sargramostim) stimulate your body to make many different types of blood cells, such as neutrophils, monocytes, and eosinophils. G-CSF medications like Neupogen (filgrastim) only stimulate your body to make neutrophils. Your provider will determine which therapy is better for you depending on your specific treatment plan.
                  Does Leukine (sargramostim) contain benzyl alcohol?
                  There are some forms of the Leukine (sargramostim) injection solution that contain benzyl alcohol as a preservative. If you're pregnant or giving the medication to a newborn or infant, there's a lyophilized powder form of the medication that's mixed with sterile water for injection. Your or your child's provider will likely use this form to avoid unwanted benzyl alcohol exposure.
                  How is Leukine (sargramostim) made?
                  Leukine (sargramostim) is made from yeast and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Let your provider know if you've ever had a severe allergic reaction to products made from yeast.
                  GoodRxEducationalIcon

                  How to save using GoodRx

                  Compare Prices
                  1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                  Select your free coupon
                  2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                  Show coupon to your pharmacist
                  3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                  Get free couponLearn more
                  warings-icon

                  What are the risks and warnings for Leukine (sargramostim) ?

                  Leukine (sargramostim) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Allergic and infusion-related reactions

                  Leukine (sargramostim) can cause infusion reactions after the first dose in any given cycle. Symptoms include trouble breathing, flushing, low blood pressure, fainting, and/or fast heartbeat. Your healthcare team will monitor for signs of this reaction and might slow down your infusion rate if you start to show symptoms. Usually symptoms don't happen again after the first dose within each cycle.

                  Additionally, Leukine (sargramostim) can cause serious allergic reactions. Get medical help right away if you notice a rash, swelling in your face or throat, or trouble breathing.

                  risk-warning

                  Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) and swelling

                  • Risk factors: History of fluid retention | Heart failure

                    Though not common, Leukine (sargramostim) can cause capillary leak syndrome (CLS) or swelling. Your provider will keep track of your body weight during treatment. Talk to your provider if you notice dizziness, lightheadedness, or unexplained swelling in your body or weight gain. If so, your provider might need to pause or lower the dose of Leukine (sargramostim) , or give you a water pill to ease swelling.

                    risk-warning

                    Changes in heartbeat

                    • Risk factors: History of heart arrhythmia

                      There have been reports of people taking Leukine (sargramostim) who have had changes in their heartbeat. It's more common in people who have a history of irregular heartbeats and will usually go away after the medication is stopped.

                      risk-warning

                      Cancer risk

                      Leukine (sargramostim) is a growth factor, which means there's a possibility for it to promote the growth of other tumors (myeloid cell lines). Your providers will monitor your labs closely and might stop the medication if the risks become greater than the benefits.

                      risk-warning

                      Gasping syndrome in infants

                      • Risk factors: Using Leukine (sargramostim) in neonates and low birth weight infants

                        Leukine (sargramostim) injection solution contains a preservative called benzyl alcohol. This preservative can cause a serious side effect in newborn babies and children known as "gasping syndrome." This condition causes trouble breathing and can lead to death. To prevent benzyl alcohol exposure to your unborn baby during pregnancy or to children taking Leukine (sargramostim) , your provider will use the lyophilized powder form of the medication that's mixed with sterile water for injection instead.

                        dosage

                        Leukine (sargramostim) dosage forms

                        Typical dosing for Leukine (sargramostim)

                        Leukine (sargramostim) is usually given in a hospital or clinic setting by a healthcare provider. It's typically given as a slow infusion through the veins, but sometimes it's given as an injection under the skin. Your provider will determine the dose based on your body surface area (BSA), which takes into consideration your height and weight.

                        The typical dose of Leukine (sargramostim) is 250 mcg/m2 daily. When you'll start this medication, how you'll receive it, and the length of your treatment will depend on why you're taking Leukine (sargramostim) .

                        interactions

                        Interactions between Leukine (sargramostim) and other drugs

                        Leukine (sargramostim) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Leukine (sargramostim) . Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                        drug-cost

                        How much does Leukine (sargramostim) cost?

                        To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                        Leukine (brand)
                        GoodRx lowest price

                        $4308.15

                        (save 12.01%)
                        View prices & coupons
                        contraindications-icon

                        Leukine (sargramostim) contraindications

                        Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Leukine (sargramostim) will not be safe for you to take.

                        • Allergy to yeast-derived products or other granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) products

                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Leukine (sargramostim) ?

                        There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Leukine (sargramostim) . Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                        Leukine (sargramostim)
                        Used for:

                        • Growth or recovery of new blood cells after:

                          • Chemotherapy to treat certain types of blood cancers (adults age 55 years and older)

                          • Bone marrow transplant (adults and children ages 2 years and older)

                        • To prepare the body for stem cell collection for stem cell transplant (adults only)

                        • Raise the chance of survival after exposure to acute radiation (adults and children)

                        $4308.15 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        Neupogen (filgrastim)
                        Used for:
                        View Prices
                        Neulasta (pegfilgrastim)
                        Used for:
                        $6399.34 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

                        Get savings updates for Leukine (sargramostim)

                        Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Leukine (sargramostim) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                        By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                        References

                        Best studies we found

                        Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (1982). Neonatal deaths associated with use of benzyl alcohol -- United States. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

                        Hong, I. (2016). Stimulatory versus suppressive effects of GM-CSF on tumor progression in multiple cancer types. Experimental & Molecular Medicine.

                        Lotfi, N., et al. (2019). Roles of GM-CSF in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases: An update. Frontiers in Immunology.

                        View All References (6)

                        National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Autologous stem cell transplant.

                        National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Bone marrow transplant.

                        National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor.

                        National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. (2023). Systemic capillary leak syndrome.

                        Partner Therapeutics, Inc. (2023). Leukine- sargramostim injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. (2018). Leukine® (sargramostim) for injection, for subcutaneous or intravenous use [package insert].

                        GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                        Was this page helpful?

                        Browse medications

                        View All

                        Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.