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.

PEGASPARGASE - INJECTION

(peg-ASP-are-gace)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Oncaspar

Uses

This medication is used to treat leukemia and certain cancers.

How To Use

Use this as directed. This medication is administered by injection into a vein or muscle usually once every 14 days. The dose and frequency of use will be determined in part by your condition and response to the drug. Pegaspargase is often used in combination with other cancer-fighting drugs. This medication must be handled carefully because it can irritate the skin. Do not use this medication if it has been previously frozen.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, gas, headache, change in appetite, dizziness, cough, hair loss or night sweats may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: mouth sores, easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, skin rash, itching, flu-like symptoms ( (fever, chills), breathing trouble, pain, seizures, swelling of the face or lips, chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat. If an allergic reaction to this drug occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, pancreatitis, any infections, any allergies. Because this medication can lower your body's ability to fight an infection, avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Pegaspargase should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is usually stopped while using anticancer drugs. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, including: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), aspirin, methotrexate. 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. Symptoms of overdose may include rash.

Notes

Laboratory tests will be done frequently to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

It is important that each dose be used as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store this medication in the refrigerator as directed. Do not freeze or shake. This medication does not work if it has been frozen. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard of 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).