Use only in patients with normal cardiac and pulmonary function as defined by thallium stress testing and pulmonary function tests. Use with extreme caution in patients with histories of cardiac or pulmonary disease even if thallium stress and pulmonary function test results are normal. (See Toxicity and Adequate Patient Monitoring under Cautions.)
Experience of Supervising Clinician
Use in hospital setting under supervision of a qualified clinician experienced in therapy with antineoplastic agents. Use only when an intensive care facility and specialists skilled in cardiopulmonary or intensive care medicine are available in case aldesleukin-induced toxicities develop.
Capillary Leak Syndrome
Risk of developing capillary leak syndrome (CLS); characterized by a loss of vascular tone and extravasation of plasma proteins and fluid into extravascular space. Results in hypotension and reduced organ perfusion; may be severe or fatal. CLS may be associated with cardiac arrhythmias (supraventricular and ventricular), angina, MI, respiratory insufficiency requiring intubation, GI bleeding or infarction, renal insufficiency, edema, and mental status changes. (See Capillary Leak Syndrome under Cautions.)
Infections
Possible impaired neutrophil function (reduced chemotaxis) and increased risk of disseminated infection, including sepsis and bacterial endocarditis. Treat preexisting bacterial infections prior to initiation of therapy. Patients with indwelling central lines are at a higher risk for gram-positive bacterial infections. Prophylaxis with oxacillin, nafcillin, ciprofloxacin, or vancomycin associated with a reduced incidence of staphylococcal infections.
CNS Effects
Withhold administration if moderate-to-severe lethargy or somnolence develops; continued administration may result in coma. (See CNS Effects under Cautions.)
ALDESLEUKIN, IL-2 (al des LOO kin) is a chemotherapy drug. It is usually used for advanced renal cell cancer or for advanced melanoma. It is sometimes used for other cancers.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
This medicine is for injection into a vein but can also be injected under the skin. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need frequent blood checks.
Try to avoid people who are sick. If you get a cold or other infection while receiving this medicine, call your doctor or health care professional. Do not treat yourself. The medicine may decrease your body's ability to fight infections.
The medicine may make you feel generally unwell. This is not uncommon. Tell your doctor or health care professional about any side effects or problems you develop.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
unusual swelling, especially of the face, feet, or ankles
unusually weak or tired
vomiting
yellowing of eyes and skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
drowsiness
loss of appetite
nausea
sore mouth
stomach pain
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children,
never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
