Neumega, also known as oprelvekin, is manufactured by Wyeth-Ayerst Pharmaceuticals and is often administered to cancer patients. While Neumega does not treat
cancer, it is used to help the body produce platelets, which assist in blood clotting. If platelet counts are too low, a patient may suffer from
excessive bleeding leading to
death.
Many
cancer-fighting drugs destroy interleukin-11, a substance produced by the body which helps make platelets. Neumega is a synthetic version of interleukin-11. Recently, Wyeth-Ayerst warned
doctors not to prescribe Neumega to children as the drug may lead to a dangerous eye condition known as
papilledema.
See a doctor if your child has experienced serious health problems after taking Neumega. In addition, it may be important to
contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be
time limits within which you must commence suit.
See Also
- Cancer Drugs: Overview
- papilledema: Overview