Aldesleukin

How do I say this name?

al-des-LOO-kin

What is this medicine used for?

Aldesleukin helps your immune system kill cancer cells.

This medicine may be called by its brand name, Proleukin^®, or by the common names, IL-2 or interleukin-2.

How do I take this medicine?

Aldesleukin is injected into the veins or under the skin.

How do I store this medicine?

Store aldesleukin injection in the refrigerator.

Are there any special things I should do while on this medicine?

Move slowly when you sit or stand up if you feel dizzy or light-headed while getting aldesleukin.

Aldesleukin can decrease the number of red blood cells in your body, cells that carry oxygen to your tissues. Without enough red blood cells, the tissues get less oxygen and you could become fatigued. Aldesleukin can also decrease the number of cells in your blood that help your blood clot (platelets). Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to reduce your risk of fatigue or excessive bleeding.

What side effects are common with this medicine?

• Flu-like symptoms
• "Capillary leak syndrome" within 2-12 hours of starting therapy (see symptom list below)

  Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

  Diarrhea

  Confusion, agitation, or sleepiness

When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if you are worried about a side effect or have questions about your medical care.

Call the doctor at once if you have any of these side effects:

• Chest pain, chest tightness, or pain down your left arm
• Convulsions or seizures
• Symptoms of "Capillary leak syndrome":

  Trouble breathing or shortness of breath

  Dizziness or light-headedness

  Swelling of feet and lower legs

  Rapid weight gain or bloating

  Decreased frequency or amount of urination

• Symptoms of infection:

  Cough, hoarseness, or sore throat

  Fever above 100.5^o Fahrenheit, or chills

  Pain in lower back or side

  Painful or difficult urination

  Urinating more often than normal

• Symptoms of increased bleeding:

  Black, tarry stools

  Blood in urine, stool, or vomit

  Pinpoint red spots on skin

  Unusual bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, coughing up blood)

Call the doctor as soon as you can if you have any of these side effects:

• Itching, rash, or redness of skin
• Symptoms of flu-like reactions:

  Fever above 100.5^o Fahrenheit, or chills

  Headache

  Fatigue or weakness

  Muscle aches

These written patient information materials should be used in conjunction with verbal counseling. They are not intended as the sole source of information patients receive about their chemotherapy and other medications. The adverse effects listed are important and common ones that patients might experience; every possible adverse effect is not included. Long-term adverse effects, like secondary malignancy and infertility, are discussed for those drugs whose risk is well defined.