(el a-SPIR-a-ji-nase)
L-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) or intravenously (IV).
Show All- 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.
- Allergic reactions are associated more with IV delivery of the medication. The intramuscular administration is preferred.
- If your child experiences an allergic reaction to L-asparaginase the doctor may want to change your child to a different but similar medication to complete the course of chemotherapy.
- 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.
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
- Nausea, vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Drowsiness
- Sores that are not healing
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Increased thirst, appetite, or urination
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- Rash
- Confusion
- Fever, chills
- Easy bruising, bleeding
- Difficulty breathing
This medication is not administered unless a nurse or doctor is present because of the risk for severe allergic reactions. Signs of an allergic reaction may include fever, chills, rash, itching, hives, puffy face and difficulty breathing.
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Last Updated:
10/2010
