Rasburicase

Pharmacogenomic Information in the Context of the FDA-Approved Drug Label*

The FDA recommends, but does not require, genetic testing prior to initiating treatment with rasburicase.

Excerpt from the rasburicase drug label:

"It is recommended that patients at higher risk for G6PD deficiency (e.g., patients of African or Mediterranean ancestry) be screened prior to starting ELITEK therapy."

Patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency who are treated with rasburicase are at risk of severe hemolysis. Rasburicase is contraindicated for such patients. Patients deficient in G6PD have reduced ability to reduce the hydrogen peroxide formed as a major byproduct of the rasburicase-catalyzed oxidation of uric acid to allantoin.

For the complete drug label text with sections containing pharmacogenetic information highlighted, see the Rasburicase drug label PDF.

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