Peg L Asparaginase
About Peg L Asparaginase
Peg L Asparaginase is used in the treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) and hypersensitivity to asparaginase. Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is a type of cancer where the body makes too many abnormal white blood cells. These cells proliferate quickly and interfere with normal blood cell production, causing symptoms such as fatigue and easy bruising. It is more common in children but can also affect adults.
Peg L Asparaginase contains Pegylated L-asparaginase. It works by reducing asparagine, which is necessary for leukaemia cells to survive. L-asparaginase breaks down asparagine in the blood. Since leukaemia cells cannot produce it on their own, they rely on an external source. With the reduction of asparagine, the leukaemia cells are unable to proliferate and eventually die.
A healthcare professional will administer Peg L Asparaginase. In some cases, this medicine may cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, tiredness, and dizziness. The majority of these side effects may not require medical treatment and will subside with time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, see a doctor.
Before starting treatment, be sure to inform your doctor about any other medications or herbal products you are currently taking. Peg L Asparaginase is contraindicated for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions, pancreatitis, blood clots, or serious bleeding caused by prior L-asparaginase treatment. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before receiving Peg L Asparaginase. This medicine is given to children in doses as advised by the doctor, depending on the age. Peg L Asparaginase should be stored in cold places at 2°C to 8°C.
Uses of Peg L Asparaginase
Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Peg L Asparaginase is also used in the general management of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
Patients with Hypersensitivity to Asparaginase: Peg L Asparaginase is used as an alternative in patients who have developed hypersensitivity reactions to other forms of asparaginase. Its PEGylated formulation reduces the risk of immune responses and allows for prolonged therapeutic activity.
Medicinal Benefits
Peg L Asparaginase is a pegylated form of L-asparaginase, an enzyme that breaks down L-asparagine. This enzyme specifically targets leukaemia cells in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), which cannot produce enough L-asparagine on their own and depend on it from the blood for protein production. It works by breaking down the amino acid asparagine, which leukaemia cells need to proliferate. Its pegylated form reduces the risk of hypersensitivity reactions and provides a longer duration of action, allowing for less frequent dosing. This makes it more tolerable for patients, especially those who have experienced allergic reactions to other forms of asparaginase.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Peg L Asparaginase
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
Drug Warnings
Inform your doctor if you have had severe allergic reactions to asparaginase, bleeding problems, or blood clots. Let your doctor know if you get a fever, have liver issues, or take medicines that could harm your liver. Peg L Asparaginase can cause liver damage, brain problems, or pancreas issues. If you experience stomach pain, let your doctor know. Peg L Asparaginase is contraindicated for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions, pancreatitis, blood clots, or serious bleeding caused by prior L-asparaginase treatment. If you are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or are breastfeeding, please inform your doctor before receiving Peg L Asparaginase. Avoid driving after receiving Peg L Asparaginase if you experience drowsiness or dizziness.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Inform the doctor if you are taking anticancer drugs (cytarabine, methotrexate, vincristine), anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin), corticosteroids (prednisone), anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, naproxen), glucocorticoids (dexamethasone) and oral contraceptives.
Drug-Food Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interaction: Peg L Asparaginase is contraindicated for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions, pancreatitis, blood clots, or serious bleeding caused by prior L-asparaginase treatment.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionAvoid or limit alcohol consumption while on treatment with Peg L Asparaginase as it may worsen your condition.
Pregnancy
cautionIf you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, inform your doctor before receiving Peg L Asparaginase. Your doctor will prescribe this medicine only if clearly needed.
Breast Feeding
cautionIt is not known if Peg-L-Asparaginase passes into breast milk. Please consult the doctor if you are breastfeeding. Your doctor will advise you to discontinue breastfeeding or the medicine based on your condition.
Driving
cautionPeg L Asparaginase may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you experience any such side effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Liver
cautionIf you have pre-existing or a history of liver disease, inform your doctor before receiving Peg L Asparaginase. Your doctor may recommend regular tests to monitor liver function while receiving Peg L Asparaginase.
Kidney
cautionIf you have pre-existing or a history of kidney disease, inform your doctor before receiving Peg L Asparaginase. Your doctor may recommend regular tests to monitor kidney function while receiving Peg L Asparaginase.
Children
safe if prescribedThe dosage for children is recommended based on their age, body weight, and the child's condition.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Maintain a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables rich in nutrients and low-fat proteins, such as lean meats, fish, and poultry.
- Reduce your intake of sugary foods in order to control your blood sugar levels.
- Include leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables in your diet to improve liver health.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Engage in moderate exercise to maintain strength and reduce fatigue.
- Get adequate sleep and rest.
- Practice proper hygiene and prevent contact with sick persons.
- Try relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
Special Advise
- Your doctor will monitor you closely during and after treatment with Peg L Asparaginase for normal blood counts, allergic reactions, and kidney, pancreas, and liver function.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL): It is a type of blood cancer which causes excessive production of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) by the bone marrow. It is the most common childhood cancer. The symptoms include bleeding from the gums, weakness, bone pain, joint pain, bruises, extreme tiredness, paleness, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or under the arms, fever, or shortness of breath. The risk factors include exposure to high levels of radiation, viral infections, inherited syndromes, smoking, prolonged exposure to certain chemicals or chemotherapy drugs or even diesel.
FAQs
Peg L Asparaginase is used in the treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) and hypersensitivity to asparaginase.
Peg L Asparaginase contains Pegylated L-asparaginase. It works by reducing asparagine, which is necessary for leukaemia cells to survive. L-asparaginase breaks down asparagine in the blood, and since leukaemia cells cannot produce it on their own, they rely on an external source. With the reduction of asparagine, the leukaemia cells are unable to proliferate and eventually die. Thereby, Peg L Asparaginase helps treat Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia.
Peg L Asparaginase may cause glucose intolerance in some people. Consult the doctor if you have high/low blood glucose levels.
Peg L Asparaginase is given as an injection, usually through an intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) route. The dosage and frequency depend on your condition and doctor’s recommendation.
Peg L Asparaginase may cause stomach pain in some patients. You are advised to inform your doctor immediately if you experience stomach pain, as it may be a sign of pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas.
Do not drive or operate machinery while using this medication, as it may cause drowsiness, fatigue, or confusion, which can reduce your ability to concentrate and respond quickly.
Peg L Asparaginase is contraindicated for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions, pancreatitis, blood clots, or serious bleeding caused by prior L-asparaginase treatment.
If you have a history of liver complications, inform your doctor before receiving Peg L Asparaginase, as it can affect liver function. Individuals with a history of liver issues are at higher risk for liver damage. Your doctor will monitor liver function through regular tests and may adjust the dosage if necessary.
Yes, Peg L Asparaginase can be administered to children, particularly to treat Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL). However, the dosage and administration are adjusted based on the child's age and weight. Always follow your doctor's recommendations for pediatric use.
During your treatment with Peg L Asparaginase, avoid alcohol, infection risks, blood-thinning medications, and unapproved treatments. Check with your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements, and avoid high-fat foods if you experience digestive issues. Consult a doctor if you have any concerns or if any signs of infection occur.
Peg L Asparaginase causes side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, tiredness, and dizziness. Seek medical care if the side effects persist or worsen.
