Asparaginase (Systemic).

 
In the U.S. -- 
     Elspar 
 
In Canada -- 
     Kidrolase 

Another commonly used name is colaspase .

 
     Antineoplastic 
Description 

Asparaginase ( a-SPARE-a-gi-nase) belongs to the group of medicines known as enzymes. It is used to treat some kinds of cancer of the blood. It may also be used to treat other kinds of cancer, as determined by your doctor.

All cells need a chemical called asparagine to stay alive. Normal cells can make this chemical for themselves, while cancer cells cannot. Asparaginase breaks down asparagine in the body. Since the cancer cells cannot make more asparagine, they die.

Before you begin treatment with asparaginase, you and your doctor should talk about the good this medicine will do as well as the risks of using it.

Asparaginase is to be administered only by or under the supervision of your doctor. It is available in the following dosage form:

 
Parenteral 
 
     Injection (U.S. and Canada) 
Before Using This Medicine 

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For asparaginase, the following should be considered:

 
Allergies -- 

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to asparaginase.

 
Pregnancy -- 

Asparaginase has not been studied in pregnant women. However, studies in mice and rats have shown that asparaginase slows the weight gain of infants and may also …