Asparlas is delivered to patients via intravenous infusion. It is generally performed by another trained individual in a healthcare facility like a hospital or a clinic.
The infusion is taken in small amounts with a slow drip over the time period directed, with dosages and frequency varying according to the medical condition of the patient and the specific chemotherapy protocol in use.
Adhering to the specific calmies dosing schedule, as prescribed by the treating oncologist or physician, is critical.
Asparlas is the pegylated variant of L-asparaginase which works by lowering the levels of asparagine in the blood. Asparagine is an important amino acid required by many cells specifically by the leukemic cells in case of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).
Normally, cells can produce asparagine from other amino acids, but the same is not possible for leukemic cells as they are incapable of producing enough themselves. Asparlas works by breaking down asparagine to deprive the cancer cells of the amino acid they require for generating protein and developing. This slow or completely stops the proliferation of leukemia cells thus aiding in the management of the condition.
The enzyme is attached to polyethylene glycol (pegylation), which hinders enzymes metabolism thereby helping develop effects which last longer and require less frequent dosing when compared to unpegylated L-asparaginase. This makes it even easier for patients on treatment.
Asparlas, much like chemotherapy agents, can also result in adverse responses in patients. Typical side effects include:
- Allergic reactions: Rash, hives and swelling, difficulty in breathing, particularly with the use of multiple doses.
- Pancreatitis: This condition is described as the swelling of the pancreas, which consequently exhibits effects such as vomiting nauseating feelings and abdominal discomfort.
- Liver toxicity: This includes collection of elevated liver enzymes that point to damage, if any, to the liver.
- Hypocoagulation: This refers to the low level of factors involved in clotting which causes excessive bleeding and even bruising.
- Weakness, fever, and nausea: This problem is also related to quite a number of drugs that are classified as chemotherapy where one gets feelings of discomfort, extreme tiredness as well as stomach problems.
•Hyperglycemia: This condition also occurs where patients suffer from diabetes because blood sugar levels will be high.
- Allergic reactions: Patients who have experienced hypersensitivity towards other forms of L-asparaginase should not take Asparlas
- Danger of inflammation of the pancreas: Previous attacks of pancreatitis should make patients careful.
- Malady of the liver: Patients suffering from any degree of hepatic impairment have to be careful because Asparlas may worsen liver conditions.
- Problems with blood clotting: Patients with bleeding problems or patients who have bleeding tendency should be put under strict observations.
•Pregnancy and lactation: Asparlas should only be taken during pregnancy if the benefit outweighs the risk to the unborn child. Considering the unknown effects, mothers are not encouraged to breast feed.
Methotrexate Interaction: Asparlas can interfere with the effectiveness of methotrexate, a common chemotherapy drug used in treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Asparlas reduces the levels of asparagine, which is necessary for methotrexate’s effectiveness. This may necessitate dose adjustments or careful timing of these drugs in the treatment regimen to ensure optimal efficacy.
Vincristine Toxicity: Vincristine, a chemotherapy agent frequently used alongside Asparlas, can increase the risk of neurotoxicity (nerve damage) when combined. The risk of peripheral neuropathy may be heightened when these two drugs are given together, requiring close monitoring and potential dose modifications to manage side effects.
Increased Bleeding Risk with Anticoagulants: Asparlas may elevate the risk of bleeding or clotting complications, especially when used with anticoagulants like warfarin or heparin. Monitoring coagulation parameters is crucial, and dosages of anticoagulants may need to be adjusted during treatment.
The Asparlas dosage is customized considering the body weight of the patient, the response to the treatment and additional parameters. Usually, it is given every 14 days, however this could be subject to change according to the regimen determined by the treating oncologist. Typical dosage recommendations are normally:
- Dosing according to body weight: The usual dosage is 2,500 IU/m² of the body surface area which is given slowly through vein infusion.
- Modifications: The dosage may be modified according to the response and the tolerability of the drug to the patient.
Dosage schedules and adjustments should always be made by a healthcare provider familiar with the patient’s specific medical needs.
Asparlas is classified as a prescription medicine and any purchase will require a perduring prescription from a healthcare giver.
It should only be available to patients under the treatment of qualified doctors with experience of chemotherapy.
Indeed, this medication is often given in hospital or clinic settings where the individual receiving the treatment can be watched for any adverse effects that may occur.