Aldesleukin
Also known as: Interleukin 2 (IL 2)
Aldesleukin is an immunomodulator, and a parenteral antineoplastic agent developed through recombinant DNA technology. It belongs to a class of biological agents known as interleukins which are the molecular messengers by which leukocytes communicate with each other. Aldesleukin is indicated for treating metastatic renal cell carcinoma and is currently being studied for treatment of acute myelogenous leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, HIV infection, and leprosy. It has also been used alone and in combination with antineoplastic agents for the palliative treatment of metastatic melanoma. It was FDA approved in May 1992. Aldesleukin is for use in specialist units only. Aldesleukin is usually given by SC injection and rarely by IV-infusion due to capillary leakage syndrome, which can cause pulmonary oedema and hypotension.
Primary Characteristics
Aldesleukin is also known as Interleukin 2 (IL 2).
It is of Natural origin and belongs to Interleukin 2 (IL-2).
Molecular Weight: 15000 · pKa: 8.2 · Solubility in Water: soluble · Non-proprietary name: Aldesleukin.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Aldesleukin has an oral bioavailability is 41% (±6%).
Distribution: Aldesleukin has a volume of distribution is 0.18 l/kg.
Elimination: it is metabolised via by kidney, plasma half-life is 5.3 hours.
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Indications
Aldesleukin is primarily indicated in conditions like Metastatic malignant melanoma, Metastatic renal carcinoma.
Aldesleukin is also indicated for secondary conditions like AIDS, Leprosy.
Contraindications
Aldesleukin is contraindicated in conditions like Cardiac disease, CNS metastasis, Hypersensitivity, Autoimmune disease, Serious infections.
Dosage
Aldesleukin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 18 – 18 Million Units | — | Every 24h | Sc | 18 million units given Subcutaneus once daily for 5 day, followed by 2 days rest for the first week. for the next 3 week 18 million uints on day 1 & 2 of each week and 9 million units on day 3 to 5 of each week followed by 2 week rest. This 4 week cycle may be repeated after an interval of 1 week. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Aldesleukin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hypoxia , Liver dysfunction , Hypotension , Pulmonary embolism , Hepatic ischemia, Inflammatory arthritis.
Aldesleukin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Myocardial infarction, Renal failure, Capillary leak syndrome, Cardiac dysrhythmias, Respiratory distress syndrome. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Aldesleukin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Anorexia , Confusion, Diarrhea, Erythema, Fatigue, Fever, Hyperglycemia, Hypocalcemia, Hypokalemia , Hypovolemia, Malaise, Nasal congestion , Nausea, Peripheral edema, Rashes , Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
None recorded.
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.8.1 — Immunomodulators