Asparaginase is a substance capable of reducing the production of a substance, called Asparagine, which is necessary for the development of cancer cells that arise in cases of leukemia.
Thus, this substance is produced as a medicine under the trade name Elspar for the treatment of acute lymphocytic leukemia in the hospital, especially in children in combination with other neoplastic patients.
Price and where to buy
Asparaginase is not available for sale to the public and may only be used in the treatment of cancer in the hospital by a team of health professionals, following an oncologist's appointment.
How to use
The mode of use of Asparaginase varies according to the type of treatment recommended by the oncologist. However, the most commonly used treatment regimen is:
- 6, 000 IU per m² in an injection with 5 mL continuous infusion for 30 minutes.
In some cases, this medicine can also be made with a single injection into the muscle, however, in these cases the amount of medicine should not exceed 2 mL.
This treatment should be done 3 times a week.
Possible side effects
The main side effects of Asparaginase include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, excessive tiredness and generalized itching.
Who should not use
Asparaginase is contraindicated for patients with pancreatitis, history of pancreatic problems, or allergy to any of the components of the formula.
