Rasburicase

Rasburicase is a recombinant urate-oxidase enzyme used primarily in oncology to manage high levels of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia) associated with tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). TLS can occur when cancer cells break down rapidly after chemotherapy, releasing uric acid and other substances into the bloodstream. Rasburicase helps prevent kidney damage by rapidly lowering uric acid levels. It is typically used in pediatric and adult patients undergoing treatment for blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.

Uses of Rasburicase

• Treatment of hyperuricemia in pediatric and adult cancer patients
• Prevention of tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) in high-risk cancer patients
• Supportive care during chemotherapy for leukemia or lymphoma

How Rasburicase Works

Rasburicase converts uric acid into allantoin, a water-soluble substance that is easily excreted by the kidneys. This reduces the concentration of uric acid in the blood and helps prevent kidney complications associated with tumor lysis syndrome.

Benefits of Rasburicase

• Rapid reduction of uric acid levels
• Prevents kidney damage during chemotherapy
• Effective in managing tumor lysis syndrome
• Reduces the need for dialysis in cancer patients
• Well-tolerated in pediatric and adult patients

How to Take Rasburicase

Rasburicase is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion under medical supervision in a hospital setting. The dosage is usually based on body weight and the severity of hyperuricemia. It is given once daily for up to 5 days, depending on clinical response. Blood uric acid levels are monitored closely during treatment.

Type of Dosage Available

• Intravenous infusion (IV)

Side Effects of Rasburicase

• Fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Hemolysis (especially in G6PD-deficient patients)
• Methemoglobinemia (rare)

Safety Advice

• Not recommended for patients with G6PD deficiency
• Use under strict medical supervision in a hospital
• Inform doctor of any allergy history before administration
• Monitor uric acid and renal function during therapy
• Not intended for long-term use or general gout management
• Avoid sample refrigeration—process blood at room temperature

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Rasburicase used for?
Rasburicase is used to treat high uric acid levels in cancer patients, especially to prevent tumor lysis syndrome during chemotherapy.

Q2. How is Rasburicase given?
It is given as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional in a hospital.

Q3. Can Rasburicase be used for gout?
No, Rasburicase is not approved for the treatment of chronic gout. It is only for tumor lysis syndrome.

Q4. Is Rasburicase safe for children?
Yes, it is approved for both pediatric and adult patients undergoing chemotherapy with high TLS risk.

Q5. What precautions should be taken before using Rasburicase?
Patients should be screened for G6PD deficiency as Rasburicase can cause severe hemolysis in such individuals.