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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Drugs & Medications > Detailed Drug Information (USP DI) > Aldesleukin

Aldesleukin (Systemic)

Brand Names : Proleukin, interleukin-2, IL-2

Description and Brand Names | Before Using | Proper Use | Precautions | Side Effects


Category
  • Antineoplastic
  • Biological response modifier
Description

Aldesleukin (al-des-LOO-kin) is a synthetic (man-made) version of a substance called interleukin-2. Interleukins are produced naturally by cells in the body to help white blood cells work. Aldesleukin is used to treat cancer of the kidney and skin cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

Aldesleukin causes some other very serious effects in addition to its helpful effects. Some effects can be fatal. For that reason, aldesleukin is given only in the hospital. If severe side effects occur, which is common, treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU) may be necessary. Other effects may not be serious but may cause concern. Before you begin treatment with aldesleukin, you and your doctor should talk about the good this medicine will do as well as the risks of using it.

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

    Parenteral
  • Injection (U.S.)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

  • Proleukin

Other commonly used names are interleukin-2 and IL-2 .

† Not commercially available in Canada.


   

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Aldesleukin: Before Using

Date Written: 09/15/1993
Date Revised: 09/30/1997









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Page Last Updated: 6th April, 2009