Pegaspargase (Oncaspar)
Also known as PEG-L-asparaginase, Peg-asparginase, Pegasparaginase.
General information
Class/mechanism: Depletes plasma asparagine, selectively killing leukemic cells which are unable to synthesize asparagine due to a lack of asparagine synthetase. The Oncaspar formulation involves L-asparaginase (L-asparagine amidohydrolase) being covalently conjugated to monomethoxypolyethylene glycol (mPEG), increasing its half-life and reducing the risk of hypersensitivity reactions in patients who have history of hypersensitivity to Asparaginase (Elspar).[1][2]
Route: IV, IM
Extravasation: no information
For conciseness and simplicity, HemOnc.org currently will focus on treatment regimens and not list information such as: renal/hepatic dose adjustments, metabolism (including CYP450), excretion, monitoring parameters (although this will be considered for checklists), or manufacturer. Instead, for the most current information, please refer to your preferred pharmacopeias such as Micromedex, Lexicomp, UpToDate (courtesy of Lexicomp), or the prescribing information.[1]
Diseases for which it is used
No regimen currently listed on HemOnc.org directly references this drug. However, it is often substituted for L-asparaginase in many chemotherapy regimens, due to ease of administration.
Patient drug information
- Pegaspargase (Oncaspar) patient drug information (Chemocare)[3]
- Pegaspargase (Oncaspar) patient drug information (UpToDate)[4]
History of changes in FDA indication
- 2/1/1994: Initial FDA approval