GENERIC NAME: PEGASPARGASE - INJECTION (peg-ASP-are-gace)
BRAND NAME(S): Oncaspar
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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