"CANCER Treatments are...."
F Biological Therapies::Aldesleukin (Proleukin®)
What is aldesleukin?
Aldesleukin is a protein produced naturally in the body in very small amounts. It is produced by a type of white blood cell called a T-lymphocyte. It works as part of the body’s defence mechanism (immune system) in fighting illness. Aldesleukin can be made commercially as a drug and is used as a treatment for cancer.
How aldesleukin works:
Aldesleukin is given to stimulate the body’s own defence mechanism to fight some types of cancer. The exact way in which it works is still not fully understood. However, it can stimulate white cells to recognise and destroy some cancer cells.
Possible side effects:
The side effects of aldesleukin usually disappear once the treatment has finished and may include any of those listed below:
Flu-like symptoms These can occur quite soon after the drug has been given and it makes some people feel quite unwell. You may have aching joints or muscles, a high temperature, a feeling of no energy (lethargy) and chills. If these symptoms do happen, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Paracetamol is often prescribed to help reduce these effects.
Feeling sick (nausea) and occasionally being sick (vomiting) Your doctor can now prescribe very effective anti-sickness (antiemetic) drugs to reduce or prevent these effects. If the sickness is not controlled, or if it continues, tell your doctor or nurse. There are other anti- sickness drugs that can be prescribed.
Loss of appetite A dietitian or specialist nurse at your hospital can give advice.
Skin changes Aldesleukin may cause red or darker, dry, itching skin, which may peel or blister. Your doctor can prescribe medicine and creams to help. If you already have a skin complaint such as psoriasis, aldesleukin may make it worse.
Changes in behaviour Let your doctor know if you feel anxious, agitated or confused.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest if this happens.
Your kidneys may not work as well as usual Your doctors will check how well your kidneys are working with a blood test before and during your course of treatment.In some hospitals you will be asked to measure and record everything you drink and the amount of urine that you pass. You may be given medicine to help you pass urine if you do not pass enough.
Fluid retention You may notice that you put on weight, and/or that your face, ankles and legs swell. This improves slowly once your treatment has finished. Sometimes drugs can be given to help to reduce the swelling.
Anaemia Anaemia is a low number of red blood cells. Symptoms of anaemia include a feeling of having no energy (lethargy) and tiredness. If you feel very tired, tell your doctor or nurse.
Changes in the way your heart works and lowering of blood pressure In some people, aldesleukin can affect how the heart works. The effect on the heart depends on the dose given. The hospital team will check your blood pressure regularly during treatment. It is important to tell your doctor if you feel dizzy, faint or have any chest pain.