ELSPAR

Drug Name: ELSPAR

ELSPAR DESCRIPTION:
ASPARAGINASE - INJECTION (as-PAR-adge-ih-naze)

COMMON ELSPAR BRAND NAME(S):
Elspar

ELSPAR SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, mild headache, stomach cramps and weight loss are common side effects. Using the drug on an empty stomach with a full glass of water may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet, such as eating several small meals or limited activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Contact your doctor, without delay, if you experience any of the following symptoms: severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, difficulty breathing, joint pain, puffy face, skin rash, itchiness, yellowing eyes or skin, frequent urination, unusual thirst, lower back or side pain, swelling of feet/lower legs, fever, chills, confusion, drowsiness, depression, hallucinations, sores in mouth or on lips, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe headache, inability to move arms or legs; seizure (convulsions). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE ELSPAR:
ELSPAR: This is a potent medication. Use it exactly as prescribed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while using ELSPAR. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects. Do not stop using ELSPAR even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting.

ELSPAR WARNING:
Asparaginase must be given in a hospital setting because severe (even fatal) reactions have occurred; especially allergic reactions. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, or breathing trouble.

ELSPAR USES:
Asparaginase is used in children to treat lymphocytic leukemia. It works by not allowing the cells to grow or form new cells.

OTHER USES OF ELSPAR:
ELSPAR may also be used for various types of cancer.

ELSPAR PRECAUTIONS:
Contraceptive (birth control) measures are recommended for use in men and women while taking ELSPAR. ELSPAR is not recommended for use in pregnant or nursing women. If you become pregnant while taking ELSPAR, contact your doctor.

ELSPAR DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially if you take medication to treat gout. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ELSPAR OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

ELSPAR NOTES:
ELSPAR can lower your body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, sore throat, rash, or chills. 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. Regular doctor visits are important. Frequent blood tests will be done to monitor therapy.

MISSED ELSPAR DOSE:
Do not double dose if missed. Contact doctor.

ELSPAR STORAGE:
Refrigerate. 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.