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Aldesleukin - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Aldesleukin

Generic Name : Aldesleukin
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Aldesleukin are provided here.

Pronunciation : al-dess-LEW-Kin

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Aldesleukin, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y43.3 Therapeutic Classification : Chemotherapy

Trade Names/Brand Names of Aldesleukin

International :


Proleukin

Other Name(s) of Aldesleukin

IL-2, Interleukin-2, r-serHuIL

Why is Aldesleukin Prescribed? (Indications)

Aldesleukin is a cancer-treating drug prescribed for treating advanced kidney cancer or renal cell carcinoma and metastatic skin cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

 It is a man-made version of a substance called interleukin-2 which are produced naturally by cells in the body.

When should Aldesleukin not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients who have a history of an abnormal heart stress test or lung function test, heart rate or rhythm, re-treatment in patients who have experienced with drug-related toxicities.

What is the dosage of Aldesleukin?

Adults - IV- 600,000 units/kg every 8 h by a 15 min infusion for 14 doses. Repeat regimen after 9 days of rest, the schedule is repeated for another 14 doses, for a maximum of 28 doses per course, as tolerated.

How should Aldesleukin be taken?

It comes as a powder for injection (diluted with fluid) to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.

What are the warnings and precautions for Aldesleukin?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart, lung, brain, kidney, liver, or autoimmune disease, infection, central nervous system disorder, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It should be restricted to patients with normal cardiac and pulmonary functions as defined by thallium stress testing and formal pulmonary function testing.

• It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• It may reduce platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.

• Avoid contact with people who have infections.

• Monitor complete blood cell counts, kidney and liver tests, and lung function tests regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Aldesleukin?

Body as a Whole - Chills, fever, uneasiness, weakness, swelling of the face, arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, infection, abdominal pain, acidity and abdominal bloating.
Metabolic - Elevated liver enzymes, low calcium levels in blood, abnormal magnesium levels, weight gain and fluid retention.
Heart - Low blood pressure and fast/irregular heart rate.
Central Nervous System - Dilatation of blood vessels, confusion, drowsiness, anxiety, seizures, coma and dizziness.
Gastrointestinal - Diarrhea, mouth ulcer, nausea, vomit that is bloody or looks like coffee ground, and loss of appetite.
Respiratory - Respiratory disorder, increased cough, runny nose and difficulty in breathing.
ENT - Sores in mouth and throat.
Skin - Rash, itching and skin inflammation.
Blood - Capillary leak (results in the leakage of proteins out of blood), anemia and decrease in white blood cells.
Genitourinary - Decreased urination, blood in the stool and black and tarry stools.

What are the other precautions for Aldesleukin?

Avoid excess dosage.
The solution should be brought to room temperature prior to infusion and used within 48 hours of reconstitution and any unused portion must be discarded as there is no preservative added to it.

What are the storage conditions for Aldesleukin?

Should be stored in a refrigerator at 2 C to 8 C (36 F to 46 F) before and after reconstitution with diluent. Do not freeze.
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