Calaspargase Pegol-mknl (kal-AS-par-jase PEG-ol - mknl)

Treats acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Brand Name(s):

Asparlas

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through an IV placed in a vein. The medicine must be given slowly, so the needle will have to stay in place for at least 1 hour.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Birth control pills may not work as well to prevent pregnancy when used with this medicine. If you are a woman who can get pregnant, your doctor may do tests to make sure you are not pregnant before receiving this medicine. Use another form of birth control (including condoms or spermicide) along with your pills. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment with this medicine and for at least 3 months after the last dose.
• Do not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine and for 3 months after the last dose.
• Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, pancreatitis, blood clotting problems, or bleeding problems.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Pancreatitis
  • Increased risk of blood clots
  • Bleeding problems
  • Liver problems, including hepatic veno-occlusive disease
• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood
• Dark urine or pale stools, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or on one side of your body, pain in your lower leg
• Sudden and severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, lightheadedness
• Sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088