Oncaspar (Pegaspargase) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

Pill Identifier Search

May 27, 2012

Oncaspar

Leukemia »

Leukemia facts

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells.
While the exact cause(s) of leukemia is not known, risk factors have been identified.
Leukemias are grouped by how quickly the disease develops (acute or chronic) as well as by the type of blood cell that is affected (lymphocytes or myelocytes). The four main types of leukemia include acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myelocytic leukemia (AML), and chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML).
People with leukemia are at significantly increased risk for developing infections, anemia, and bleeding. Other symptoms and signs include easy bruising, weight loss, night sweats, and unexplained fevers.
The diagnosis of leukemia is supported by findings of the medical history and examination, and examining blood and bone marrow samples under a microscope.
Tre...

Read the Leukemia article »

« Previous
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Next »

Oncaspar

Breast Cancer Slideshow Pictures

Pancreatic Cancer Slideshow Pictures

Skin Cancer Slideshow Pictures

font size

Oncaspar Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

PEGASPARGASE - INJECTION

(peg-ASP-are-gace)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Oncaspar

USES: This medication is usually used with other anti-cancer (chemotherapy) drugs to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), especially in patients who are allergic to L-asparaginase. It works by starving tumor cells of a certain amino acid (asparagine), causing the tumor cells to die.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein or a muscle by a health care professional. Dosage is based on your body size and response to treatment.

Avoid getting the medication on the skin or in the eyes, mouth, or nose. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water and tell your doctor immediately.