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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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This information is about the use of aldesleukin as a treatment for people with cancer. It's mainly used to treat people with a type of kidney cancer| known as renal cell carcinoma, but it's sometimes used to treat other types of cancer.
Aldesleukin is a protein produced naturally in the body in very small amounts. It is produced by a type of white blood cell called a T-lymphocyte. It works as part of the body’s immune system (defence mechanism) in fighting illness. Aldesleukin can be made commercially as a drug and is used as a treatment for cancer.
It can be used to treat a few different types of cancer, including some kidney tumours, renal cell carcinoma and melanoma|. It can be given on its own or in combination with other treatments.
Aldesleukin used to be known as interleukin-2 or IL2.
Aldesleukin is a colourless fluid.
Aldesleukin is usually given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously). It may also be given into a vein (intravenous infusion).
The amount of aldesleukin that occurs naturally in the body is very small, and aldesleukin treatment greatly increases the amount in the body.
The length of the course of treatment, how often the injections are given and the dosage will vary according to your general health and the type of cancer you have.
Most people have aldesleukin as an outpatient.
Aldesleukin is given to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight some types of cancer. The exact way in which it works is still not fully understood. However, it can stimulate white blood cells to recognise and destroy some cancer cells.
Each person’s reaction to any drug is different. Some people have very few side effects while others may experience more. The side effects described below will not affect everyone having treatment with aldesleukin.
We have outlined the most common side effects but haven't included those that are rare and therefore unlikely to affect you. If you notice any effects that aren't listed here, discuss them with your doctor or nurse.
The side effects of aldesleukin usually disappear once the treatment has finished.
These can occur quite soon after the drug has been given and make some people feel quite unwell. You may have aching joints or muscles, a high temperature, a lack of energy (lethargy) and chills. If you have these symptoms, it's important to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Paracetamol is often prescribed to help reduce these effects.
Your doctor can prescribe anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drugs| to prevent, or greatly reduce, this. If the sickness is not controlled, or if it continues, tell your doctor; they can prescribe other anti-sickness drugs that maybe be more effective.
A dietitian or specialist nurse at your hospital can give advice. You may also like to read our information and see our slideshow about poor appetite|.
Aldesleukin may cause your skin to darken or redden. It may become dry and itchy, and peel or blister. Your doctor can prescribe medicine and creams to help. If you already have a skin complaint such as psoriasis, aldesleukin may make it worse.
Let your doctor know if you feel anxious, agitated or confused.
It's important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest if this happens. Balancing rest periods with gentle exercise such as walking may also help. You may like to read our information about fatigue|.
Your doctors will check how well your kidneys are working with a blood test before and during your course of treatment. In some hospitals you'll be asked to measure and record everything you drink and the amount of urine that you pass. You may be given medicine to help you pass more urine if you don't pass enough.
You may put on weight and/or your face, ankles and legs may swell. This improves slowly once your treatment has finished. Sometimes drugs can be given to help reduce the swelling.
You may become anaemic while having treatment with aldesleukin. Symptoms include having no energy (lethargy) and feeling tired. Tell your doctor or nurse if you have these symptoms.
In some people, aldesleukin can affect how the heart works. The effect on the heart depends on the dose given. Tell your doctor if your heartbeat feels irregular or if you have any chest pain.
The hospital team will check your blood pressure regularly during treatment. It is important to tell your doctor if you feel dizzy or faint.
It's important to let your doctor know straight away if you feel unwell or have any severe side effects, even if they're not mentioned above
Some patients having aldesleukin treatment have to stay in hospital for close monitoring. This may be necessary if treatment is given at higher doses, which may make side effects more severe.
Some patients may be able to give themselves aldesleukin injections at home. If this is the case for you, you must keep your aldesleukin in the refrigerator.
This information has been compiled using information from a number of reliable sources including:
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.