Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
ALDESLEUKIN - INJECTION
(al-dess-LEW-kin)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Proleukin
WARNING: Aldesleukin must be given in a hospital setting. It must be used with extreme caution in patients with heart or lung problems. Infrequently, this medication can cause capillary leak syndrome (CLS), a serious condition that can sometimes be fatal. If you develop any of the following signs of CLS, notify your doctor immediately: swelling (edema), severe dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat, chest pain (angina), trouble breathing, change in urine amount, mental/mood changes, severe stomach/abdominal pain, or black stools. Aldesleukin can also make you prone to serious infections. Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you currently have any infections. If you develop any of the following signs of infection, notify your doctor immediately: persistent sore throat or fever. Stop using aldesleukin and notify your doctor immediately if this drug makes you unusually sleepy.
Uses
Aldesleukin is used to treat certain types of cancer.
OTHER
Uses
This medication may also be used for Kaposi's sarcoma.
How To Use
This medication is given by injection into a vein over a 15 minute period by a health care professional. This may also be given by other routes of administration. This is usually given three times a day, but the dose may be stopped or held based on the response.
Side Effects
Fever, chills, itching or stomach upset may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Other side effects include dry skin, muscle aches, diarrhea, mouth sores, dizziness, headache, weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. This medication can cause blood disorders. Laboratory tests will be done to monitor for this and other possible side effects. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, a rapid heartbeat, depression, mental confusion, skin rash, weakness, fatigue, unusual bleeding or bruising, breathing trouble, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have: kidney problems, heart disease, liver disease, lung disease, a seizure disorder, thyroid disorder, infections, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you use, especially of: corticosteroids, indomethacin, blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, other anti-cancer medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Notes
This medication is usually administered in a hospital setting where your condition can be monitored closely and laboratory tests will be done periodically to guide therapy.
Missed Dose
Doses may be stopped or held depending on your condition. Discuss the dosing schedule with your doctor. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store vials in the refrigerator but do not freeze. Prior to infusing into the patient, bring the solution to room temperature. Check the expiration date and discard any unused medication after that time.
Medical Alert
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
