Aldesleukin, IL-2
Aldesleukin Solution for injection
What is this medicine?
ALDESLEUKIN, IL-2 (al des LOO kin) is a chemotherapy drug. It is usually used for advanced renal cell cancer or for advanced melanoma. It is sometimes used for other cancers.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood problems
extreme tiredness
fever or infection
heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease
immune system problems
mental disorders
organ transplant
seizures
stomach problems
thyroid problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to aldesleukin, bacterial proteins, mannitol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for injection into a vein but can also be injected under the skin. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply.
What may interact with this medicine?
aminoglycosides
contrast media
interferon alfa
medicines for cancer like doxorubicin, methotrexate, asparaginase, cisplatinum, dacarbazine, and tamoxifen
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines for blood pressure like beta blockers
medicines for pain including pentazocine, buprenorphine, butorphanol, nalbuphine, tramadol, and propoxyphene
medicines for sleep
NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, and thioridazine
steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need frequent blood checks.
Try to avoid people who are sick. If you get a cold or other infection while receiving this medicine, call your doctor or health care professional. Do not treat yourself. The medicine may decrease your body's ability to fight infections.
The medicine may make you feel generally unwell. This is not uncommon. Tell your doctor or health care professional about any side effects or problems you develop.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in vision
chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat
confusion, agitation, anxiety, or hallucinations
difficulty breathing, wheezing
dizziness, fainting spells
fever, chills, cough, or sore throat
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
reduced urine output or dark yellow or brown urine
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusual swelling, especially of the face, feet, or ankles
unusually weak or tired
vomiting
yellowing of eyes and skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
drowsiness
loss of appetite
nausea
sore mouth
stomach pain
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Sources:  
U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert