rasburicase

Do not take rasburicase without first talking to your doctor if you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Rasburicase should not be used by people with this deficiency.

In rare cases, the use of rasburicase has been associated with blood problems (methemoglobinemia, hemolytic reactions) and serious allergic reactions. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; chest pain; shortness of breath; dizziness; hives; or bluish skin or lips. These may be symptoms of a serious reaction.

Rasburicase increases the rate at which uric acid is broken down in the body.

Rasburicase is used to treat increased levels of uric acid caused by the breakdown of tumors during treatment for some types of cancer.

Rasburicase may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Do not take rasburicase without first talking to your doctor if you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Rasburicase should not be used by people with this deficiency.

Rasburicase is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether rasburicase will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take rasburicase without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether rasburicase passes into breast milk. Do not take rasburicase without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Rasburicase should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with rasburicase depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.

Your doctor may want to admit you to the hospital for the first dose or doses of rasburicase to monitor for any reaction.

Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with rasburicase to monitor progress and side effects.

Your healthcare provider will store rasburicase as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing rasburicase at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.

Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of rasburicase.

If for any reason an overdose of rasburicase is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Symptoms of a rasburicase overdose tend to be similar to side effects caused by the medication, although often more severe.

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity during treatment with rasburicase unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

In rare cases, the use of rasburicase has been associated with blood problems (methemoglobinemia, hemolytic reactions) and serious allergic reactions. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; chest pain; shortness of breath; dizziness; hives; or bluish skin or lips. These may be symptoms of a serious reaction.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take rasburicase and talk to your doctor if you experience:

• diarrhea;
• abdominal pain;
• nausea or vomiting;
• fever;
• rash;
• sores inside the mouth;
• headache, or
• constipation.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any reaction that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Before taking rasburicase, tell your doctor if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products. You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any other medications.

Your pharmacist has more information about rasburicase written for health professionals that you may read.

Rasburicase is available with a prescription generically and under the brand name Elitek. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Elitek 1.5 mg--white to off-white powder for injection in a vial with an ampule of diluent for reconstitution