Oncaspar had previously been indicated for patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who require L-asparaginase in their treatment, but developed hypersensitivity to the native forms.
“We are pleased to now be able to offer this drug to all patients, especially children, with ALL who can benefit from Oncaspar, a core component of the gold standard of care,” said Jeffrey Buchalter, Enzon’s chairman and CEO. “Further, this approval marks an important step for the new Enzon, as we continue to re-invest in our existing products and build a leading oncology franchise.”
ALL is an aggressive blood cancer which will affect almost 4,000 people in 2006, according to the American Cancer Society. ALL is the most common form of cancer in children, representing 23% of cancer diagnoses among those younger than 15 years of age.