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Asparaginase
Brand Names
ElsparWhat is Asparaginase
Asparaginase is a cancer medication that is used to treat acute lymphocytic lymphoma. It interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.
Side effects of Asparaginase
Side effects of Asparaginase are the followings:
- mild skin rash or itching;
- depression, drowsiness;
- swelling in your hands, ankles or feet;
- nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss;
- stomach cramps;
- headache, feeling tired or irritable.
But if you have any of these serious symptoms it is necessary to visit your doctor immediately:
- 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;
- increased thirst or urination;
- agitation, hallucinations, seizure (convulsions);
- tremors, muscle stiffness;
- urinating more or less than usual or not at all.
Indication
Asparaginase is used to treat acute lymphocytic lymphoma.
Precautions
Before using Asparaginase you should inform your doctor if you have:
- liver disease;
- gout;
- diabetes (asparaginase can raise blood sugar);
- if you are being treated with other cancer medications.
Dosage forms
The recommended dose is 6, 000 International Units/m2 intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV) 3 times a week.
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