According to the National Library of Medicine, "Asparaginase injection will no longer be available in the U.S. after December 31, 2012." So why does Erika's treatment include it? Erika is in a clinical trial which is studying Asparaginase's effectiveness in young adults. Asparaginase has been used as a pediatric medicine for children diagnosed with ALL the past 40 years. Those case studies have shown an 80% survival rate (survival = 5yrs+). So why is it no longer available? Past studies of Asparaginase administered to young adults and older resulted in an allergic reaction. Asparaginase is a form of E. Coli. which effectively hinders the reproduction of leukemia cells, yet, not every body can handle it's foreign presence in the system. Because Erika is in this case study, Asparaginase will be administered in a small dose to allow her body to build a tolerance. Therefore, future administration of a higher dose will less likely result in an adverse reaction. The LDS pharmacist stated that any reaction, if any, usually results between the 2nd and 4th injection. Erika has received her first during the Induction phase, which was the very first in early January. Today she will receive her second. Let's all hope NO reaction occurs.
Update: So far no reaction after the chemo completed 5 minutes ago @ 3:50pm. It is a 2 hour release via IV.
No comments:
Post a Comment