Rasburicase (Injection)
HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M
Introduction
Rasburicase (ras-BYOOR-i-kayse)
Treats high levels of uric acid, which can be a side effect of some cancer treatments.
Brand Name(s)
Elitek
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
You should not receive this medicine if you have had any serious reaction to rasburicase, or if you have glucose-6-phosphatase dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficency.
How to Use This Medicine
Injectable
- You will receive this medicine in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
- Your doctor will prescribe the exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
- The medicine is usually given for about 30 minutes every day for 5 days.
If a dose is missed:
- This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Warnings While Using This Medicine
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Tell your doctor if you are of African or Mediterranean descent, because people with this ancestry are more likely to have G6PD deficiency.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness or pain in chest, trouble breathing
- Bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or skin
- Chills, fever, back and stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes, dark-colored urine
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Skin rash
- Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Headache
- Mouth sores or white patches in your mouth or throat
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain
Review Date: 8/4/2008
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