Asparaginase is a medicine which is given at the same time as chemotherapy
drugs.
It is an enzyme which deprives leukaemia cells of essential nutrients so
that they die.
Please read this information in
conjunction with any patient information leaflet provided by the
manufacturer. However, please note that this information explains
about the use of asparaginase in children and young people so may differ
from the manufacturer’s information. Each person reacts differently to
medicines, so your child will not necessarily suffer from every side effect
mentioned. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your doctor,
nurse or pharmacist.
How is asparaginase given?
It is usually given in one of two ways:
- By injection into a muscle (intramuscularly or IM).
- By injection into a vein (intravenously or IV) through a cannula, central
venous catheter or implantable port.
What are the side effects?
Rash
Asparaginase may cause an itchy rash.
Fever
This may occur after asparaginase is given but it does not
usually last for long.
Temporary effect on liver function
Asparaginase can cause some mild
changes to your child’s liver function. This will return to normal when the
treatment is finished. Blood tests may be taken to monitor your child’s liver
function.
Changes in blood clotting
With asparaginase your child’s blood may
take more or less time to clot than normal. Therefore, there may be a slight
chance of your child bruising or bleeding more easily than normal. This is not
common. Please report any bruising or bleeding to your child’s doctor.
Allergic reaction
Some people receiving asparaginase have an allergic
reaction to the drug. This reaction may be mild to severe. Signs of a mild
allergic reaction include skin rashes and itching, high temperature, shivering,
redness of the face, a feeling of dizziness or headache. If you see any of these
signs, please report them to a doctor or nurse. Signs of a severe allergic
reaction include any of the above, as well as shortness of breath. If you are in
hospital and your child shows signs of an allergic reaction, call a doctor or
nurse immediately. If you are at home and your child shows signs of a severe
allergic reaction, call an ambulance immediately.
Important
Your child must remain in the hospital or outpatient department for at least
one hour after an injection of asparaginase to check for any allergic
reaction.
Interactions with other medicines
Some medicines can react with asparaginase, altering how well it works.
Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other
medicine, including medicines on prescription from your family doctor (GP),
medicines bought from a pharmacy (chemist) or any herbal or complementary
medicines.
Useful numbers
- GOSH switchboard 020 7405 9200
- Pharmacy department 020 7829 8680
- Pharmacy medicines information 020 7829 8608
Ref: 09F0493 © GOSH Trust November 2009
Compiled by the Pharmacy department in collaboration with the Child and Family Information Group
This information does not constitute health or medical advice and will not necessarily reflect treatment at other hospitals. If you have any questions, please ask your doctor. No liability can be taken as a result of using this information.
