L-Aspara Injection (Asparaginase) is a medication used for the treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). It contains the active ingredient Asparaginase which works by depriving the cancer cells of the amino acid called asparagine, thereby stopping their growth and division. This injection is administered into a vein under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Patients with hypersensitivity to Asparaginase or with a history of pancreatitis should not use this injection. Contact your healthcare professional for more information.
L-Aspara Injection (Asparaginase)
L-Aspara Injection is used in the treatment of some kinds of cancer of white blood cells (leukemia). It may also be used to treat other types of cancer as determined by your doctor. It may be used on its own, or sometimes given together with certain other medicines as part of combination chemotherapy.
L-Aspara Injection is given as an injection by the doctor, but try to have it the same time each day to make sure it has the best effect. Your doctor will decide what dose is necessary and how often you need to take it. This will depend on what you are being treated for and may change from time to time. You should take it exactly as your doctor has advised. Taking it in the wrong way or taking too much can cause very serious side effects. It may take several weeks or months for you to see or feel the benefits but do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.
The most common side effect of this medicine includes breathlessness, rash, vomiting, angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), and nausea. It might cause increased blood sugar levels, hence regular blood tests are required to monitor your blood sugar levels, response to the therapy, and any side effects. It is advised that you drink extra fluids so that you pass more urine. This will help prevent bladder and kidney problems and keep your kidneys working well.
This medicine may lower your body's resistance and increase susceptibility to infections. Infections can sometimes be life-threatening. It is important to use effective contraception to avoid getting pregnant or fathering a child during treatment. Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
USES OF L-ASPARA INJECTION
- Blood cancer (Acute lymphocytic leukemia)
BENEFITS OF L-ASPARA INJECTION
In Blood cancer (Acute lymphocytic leukemia)
Blood cancer, also called leukemia, is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, that decreases the body's ability to fight infection. L-Aspara Injection kills or stops the growth of cancer cells and also prevents the multiplication of cancer cells. It is a potent and very toxic medicine and you should discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. You should avoid drinking alcohol while having this treatment and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
SIDE EFFECTS OF L-ASPARA INJECTION
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of L-Aspara
- Breathlessness
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin)
- Edema (swelling)
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Increased liver enzymes
- Diarrhea
- Decreased blood pressure
- Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk)
- Low albumin level in blood
- Increased glucose level in blood
- Hives
HOW TO USE L-ASPARA INJECTION
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.
HOW L-ASPARA INJECTION WORKS
Asparaginase belongs to class of medications called antineoplastic agents. Asparaginase is an enzyme that interferes with natural processes necessary for cancer cell growth, thereby killing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
