Skip to main content

How does Asparlas (calaspargase pegol-mknl) compare to Oncaspar (pegaspargase)?

Medically reviewed by Judith Stewart, BPharm. Last updated on March 19, 2025.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Asparlas is given no more frequently than every 21 days and Oncaspar is given no more frequently than every 14 days. Oncaspar is can be given intramuscularly or intravenously while Asparlas is only given intravenously.

Asparlas (calaspargase pegol-mknl) and Oncaspar (pegaspargase) are both forms of PEGylated asparaginase indicated for use in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Asparlas provides for a longer interval between doses compared to Oncaspar, and has as an extended shelf life.

Asparlas (calaspargase pegol-mknl) Injection

  • FDA Approved: 2018
  • Dosage Interval: Asparlas is administered intravenously no more frequently than every 21 days.
  • Storage: Store in refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
  • Unopened vials may be stored at room temperature (15°C to 25°C [59°F to 77°F]) for no more than 48 hours.

Oncaspar (pegaspargase) Injection

  • FDA Approved: 1994
  • Dosage Interval: Oncaspar is administered intramuscularly or intravenously no more frequently than every 14 days.
  • Storage: Store in refrigerator at 2ºC to 8ºC (36°F to 46°F).

Read next

What to avoid when taking Gleevec?

  • Talk to your doctor about warnings, side effects, use in pregnancy and possible drug interactions with Gleevec.
  • Take your Gleevec exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use Gleevec if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
  • Take each tablet with a meal and large glass of water to help prevent stomach irritation.
  • Do not use a broken Gleevec tablet. The medicine from a broken pill can be dangerous if it gets in your mouth, eyes, or nose, or on your skin.
  • Do not use grapefruit products while taking Gleevec, unless okayed by your healthcare provider
  • Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine may affect you. Use caution when driving as Gleevec may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision.
Continue reading

How much does Blincyto (blinatumomab) cost?

The cost of a Blincyto (blinatumomab) vial is approximately $5,427 per 35 microgram (mcg) single-dose vial for injection. The overall cost for your therapy will also depend upon the length of treatment. Most people do not pay out-of-pocket for the full price of Blincyto. Continue reading

Gleevec vs Sprycel vs Tasigna - how do they compare?

Gleevec, Sprycel and Tasigna are all prescription medicines used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (blood cancer). Gleevec and Sprycel are also approved for other types of cancers and tumors. These drugs are all classified as BCR-ABL kinase inhibitors and block the enzyme BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase, which is an important pathway in the development of leukemia. Continue reading

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups