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Precautions and Warnings With Aldesleukin
If you have heart problems, lung disease, or diabetes, make sure your healthcare provider knows this before prescribing aldesleukin. This chemotherapy drug can cause potentially dangerous complications, including low blood pressure and potentially life-threatening infections. There are also specific warnings for women who are pregnant or nursing. Other safety precautions include the possibility of drug interactions.
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to receiving aldesleukin (Proleukin®) if you have:
- Heart problems, such as congestive heart failure or an abnormal heartbeat (an arrhythmia)
- Ever had an abnormal heart stress test
- A history of a heart attack or chest pain (angina)
- Lung disease, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or have ever had an abnormal lung function test
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Liver disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver failure
- Any central nervous system problem
- Had an organ transplant
- An autoimmune or inflammatory condition, such as Crohn's disease or arthritis
- Diabetes
- Thyroid problems
- A current infection
- A history of abdominal (stomach) or intestinal bleeding
- Any allergies, including to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
- Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
- Breastfeeding.
You should also tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD