Rasburicase
Generic name: rasburicase [ ras-BUR-ih-kase ]
Brand names: Elitek, Fasturtec, Fasturtec(obs)
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (1.5 mg; 7.5 mg)
Drug class:Antihyperuricemic agents
What is rasburicase?
Rasburicase is used to manage uric acid levels in adults and children receiving cancer treatment for leukemia, lymphoma, and certain tumors.
Rasburicase may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not receive rasburicase if you have ever had an allergic reaction or blood cell problems after receiving rasburicase, or if you have a genetic enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; wheezing, chest pain and tightness, difficult breathing; feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Tell your caregivers or call your doctor at once if you have signs of a serious blood disorder--blue-colored skin or lips, headache, feeling weak or tired, trouble breathing, feeling like you might pass out, pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest.
Before taking this medicine
You should not receive this medicine if:
you have ever had an allergic reaction or blood cell problems after receiving rasburicase; or
you have an enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD).
If you are of African or Mediterranean descent, your doctor may perform blood tests to make sure you do not have conditions that would prevent you from safely receiving rasburicase.
Rasburicase may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
Do not breastfeed while using this medicine, and for at least 2 weeks after your last dose.
Rasburicase is not approved for use by anyone younger than 1 month old.
How is rasburicase given?
Rasburicase is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
rasburicase must be given slowly, and the infusion can take at least 30 minutes to complete.
Rasburicase is usually given once per day for up to 5 days. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
While using rasburicase, you may need frequent blood tests.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using rasburicase.
