ONCASPAR

Drug Name: ONCASPAR

ONCASPAR DESCRIPTION:
PEGASPARGASE - INJECTION (peg-ASP-are-gace)

COMMON ONCASPAR BRAND NAME(S):
Oncaspar

ONCASPAR SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea, vomiting, gas, headache, change in appetite, dizziness, cough, hair loss or night sweats may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: mouth sores, easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, skin rash, itching, flu-like symptoms ( (fever, chills), breathing trouble, pain, seizures, swelling of the face or lips, chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat. If an allergic reaction to ONCASPAR occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE ONCASPAR:
ONCASPAR: Use this as directed. ONCASPAR is administered by injection into a vein or muscle usually once every 14 days. The dose and frequency of use will be determined in part by your condition and response to the drug. Pegaspargase is often used in combination with other cancer-fighting drugs. ONCASPAR must be handled carefully because it can irritate the skin. Do not use ONCASPAR if it has been previously frozen.

ONCASPAR USES:
ONCASPAR is used to treat leukemia and certain cancers.

ONCASPAR PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, pancreatitis, any infections, any allergies. Because ONCASPAR can lower your body's ability to fight an infection, avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Pegaspargase should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if ONCASPAR passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is usually stopped while using anticancer drugs. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

ONCASPAR DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, including: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), aspirin, methotrexate. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ONCASPAR OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include rash.

ONCASPAR NOTES:
Laboratory tests will be done frequently to monitor your progress.

MISSED ONCASPAR DOSE:
It is important that each dose be used as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

ONCASPAR STORAGE:
Store ONCASPAR in the refrigerator as directed. Do not freeze or shake. ONCASPAR does not work if it has been frozen. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard of any unused medication after that time. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854- 1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.