Even if you have received asparaginase without reaction in the past, you
may have an allergic reaction to the medication when you receive it again.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of the following side effects during your
treatment with asparaginase:
-
severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, nausea
and vomiting, fast heart rate;
-
easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
-
fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
-
sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech,
or balance;
-
agitation, hallucinations, seizure (convulsions); or
-
urinating less than usual or not at all.
Asparaginase is highly toxic and both the powder and solution
must be handled with care. Avoid inhaling vapors from the medicine, or allowing the medicine to
come into contact with your skin, eyes, nose, or mouth. If the medicine gets on your skin, wash
the area right away with soap and water. If the medicine gets into your eyes, rinse them for at
least 15 minutes with water, saline, or other irrigating solution and seek emergency medical
attention.
Avoid being near people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact
your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.
What is asparaginase?
Asparaginase is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth of cancer cells and
slows their growth and spread in the body.
Asparaginase is used to treat acute lymphocytic lymphoma.
Asparaginase may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving asparaginase?
Do not receive this medication if you are allergic to asparaginase or pegaspargase
(Oncaspar), or if you have a history of pancreas problems.
Before receiving asparaginase, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you
have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to receive
asparaginase, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell
your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether asparaginase passes into breast milk or if it could harm a
nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a
baby.
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