Common brand names

• Asparlas

How it is administered

Calaspargase pegol is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion. It is supplied as a clear, colorless solution that must be diluted before use. The recommended dose is 2,500 units per square meter of body surface area, administered no more frequently than every 21 days. The infusion is given over a period of 1 hour in a clinical setting, and patients are usually premedicated to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

How it works

Calaspargase pegol is an enzyme that breaks down the amino acid L-asparagine into aspartic acid and ammonia. Certain cancer cells, such as those found in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma, are unable to produce enough asparagine on their own and rely on external sources. By depleting asparagine in the blood, calaspargase pegol starves these cancer cells, leading to their death.

This targeted approach helps to kill leukemic cells while having less effect on normal cells, which can make their own asparagine. The medication is typically used as part of a multi-agent chemotherapy regimen to increase its effectiveness.

Who should take it

Calaspargase pegol is indicated for pediatric and young adult patients (ages 1 month to 21 years) as part of a multi-agent chemotherapy regimen for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It is also used in the treatment of lymphoblastic lymphoma, as these diseases share similar characteristics and treatment protocols.

The medication is most effective when included in combination therapy, as it works best alongside other chemotherapy agents to target cancer cells from multiple angles.

Who should not take it

You should not take calaspargase pegol if you have had serious allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) to pegylated L-asparaginase therapies in the past. It is also contraindicated if you have experienced serious pancreatitis, thrombosis (blood clots), or hemorrhagic (bleeding) events during previous L-asparaginase therapy, or if you have severe liver impairment.

If you have any of these conditions or a history of severe reactions to similar medications, your doctor will consider alternative treatments.

Commonly used with

Calaspargase pegol is almost always used as part of a multi-agent chemotherapy regimen. It is commonly combined with other chemotherapy drugs such as vincristine, corticosteroids (like prednisone or dexamethasone), anthracyclines (like doxorubicin), and other agents used in the treatment of ALL and lymphoblastic lymphoma.

The combination helps to maximize the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the risk of cancer cells developing resistance.

Commonly tested with

Calaspargase pegol has been tested in clinical trials alongside standard chemotherapy regimens for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma. These regimens often include drugs such as pegaspargase (as a comparator), vincristine, corticosteroids, anthracyclines, and other supportive medications.

Clinical studies have evaluated its safety and effectiveness as part of these multi-drug protocols, particularly in pediatric and young adult populations.