pegaspargase, a modified version of the enzyme l-asparaginase used in cancer chemotherapy. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, during a blast crisis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and during salvage therapy in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It may also be effective in those who are hypersensitive to other forms of the enzyme. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It should not be given to patients with pancreatitis or those who have had significant hemorrhagic events associated with prior use of the enzyme or have experienced serious allergic reactions to the product. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: The side effects most often reported include chills, fever, nausea and vomiting, edema, pain, chemical hepatotoxicities, and coagulopathies.
