PEG-asparaginase
(peg a-SPIR-a-ji-nase)
Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Additional information| Contact us
What is PEG-asparaginase (Oncaspar")?
PEG-asparaginase is a medicine used to treat certain types of cancer. It is available as an injectable medication that can be given intramuscularly (into the muscle).
Special Instructions
- Allergic reactions are common with this medication. Your child's doctor may want to observe your child in the hospital after giving this medication to make sure that he/she is not having a reaction to the drug.
- If your child experiences an allergic reaction to PEG-asparaginase the doctor may want to change your child to a different but similar medication to complete the course of chemotherapy.
- Have your child drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to ensure adequate hydration.
- Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle/package.
- If too much medicine is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
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If a dose is missed
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
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Side effects
Contact your child's doctor if symptoms persist or become bothersome:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Drowsiness
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Increased thirst, appetite, or urination
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Warning signs
Call your child's doctor immediately if your child develops:
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- Rash
- Confusion
- Fever
- Easy bruising
- Difficulty breathing
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Additional information
Signs of an allergic reaction may include fever, chills, rash, itching, hives, puffy face and difficulty breathing. Call your child's doctor immediately if you see signs of an allergic reaction.
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Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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PEP 5019 V 7/04
Rev. 10/05, 10/07
