L‐asparaginase Treatment in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

What is Erwinaze Used for? 

Erwinaze is a brand name of L-asparaginase, which is used as a component of a multi-agent chemotherapeutic regimen in order to treat patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

What type of enzyme is asparaginase?

L-asparaginase is a kind of enzyme that catalyses specifically the asparagine hydrolysis in the l-aspartic acid as well as ammonium. 

How should L-asparaginase be given? 

In order to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), l-asparaginase dose should be given by injection into a vein, muscle, or under the skin.

Side Effects: The following serious side effects occur with l-asparaginase treatment: 

• Anaphylaxis
• Serious allergic reactions 
• Serious thrombosis 
• Pancreatitis 
• Glucose intolerance 
• Coagulopathy
• Abnormal liver function 
• Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) 
• Risk of Medication Errors

The most commonly reported side effects with asparaginase 10000 iu are elevated transaminases, hyperbilirubinemia, hyperglycemia, central nervous system (CNS), pancreatitis, thrombosis, coagulopathy, and allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis). 

Contraindications:

• Serious allergic reactions to asparaginase 10000 iu or any other existing components of it. 
• Serious thrombosis with prior the therapy with L-asparaginase 
• Pancreatitis with prior the therapy with L-asparaginase 
• Serious hemorrhagic events with prior the therapy with l asparaginase injection. 

Storage: Keep vials refrigerated at 2°C-8°C (36°F-46°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze. The I asparaginase injection does not contain a preservative. Store unused, reconstituted solution at 2°C-8°C (36°F-46°F) and discard after 8 hours or sooner in case it becomes cloudy.

Price of I-asparaginase injection: In order to know the price of this injection, kindly go through with A Quick Guide on L-asparaginase. 

NOTE: The piece of information mentioned about "L‐asparaginase Treatment in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia" in this article is just for informational purposes and is not served as a substitute for the medical treatment, consultation, diagnosis of an experienced or qualified healthcare professional.