Uses
This medication is used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It works by starving tumor cells of certain needed nutrients, which slows or stops the growth of cancer cells.
How To Use
This medication is given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually once every 21 days. The injection is given by a health care professional, usually over 1 hour. The dosage is based on your body size and response to treatment.
To help prevent side effects (infusion and allergic reactions), your doctor may direct you to use other medications before you receive this medication. Use these additional medications exactly as directed by your doctor.
Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or pain/swelling/redness at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
- severe stomach/abdominal pain
- swelling of the stomach/abdomen
- signs of liver disease (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine)
- signs of an infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills, cough)
- unusual bruising/bleeding (such as nose bleeds, black or bloody stools)
- signs of high blood sugar (such as increased thirst/urination)
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including:
- shortness of breath/rapid breathing
- chest/jaw/left arm pain
- unusual sweating
- confusion
- sudden dizziness/fainting
- pain/swelling/warmth in the arms or legs
- sudden/severe headaches
- trouble speaking
- weakness on one side of the body
- sudden vision changes
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug can occur. Get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using calaspargase pegol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to pegaspargase; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- history of a serious reaction to L-asparaginase (such as bleeding, blood clots, pancreatitis)
- diabetes
- bleeding/clotting problems
- liver disease
- pancreatitis
Tell your health care professional that you are using calaspargase pegol before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).
To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using this medication. Calaspargase pegol may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test before you start this medication. Ask about reliable forms of non-hormonal birth control (such as condoms, diaphragm with spermicide) while using this medication and for at least 3 months after the last dose. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug and for at least 3 months after the last dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood counts, blood clotting tests, liver function, amylase/lipase levels) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
Missed Dose
It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
Medical Alert
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
