Pronounce: IN-ter-LOO-kin
Classification: Biologic Response Modifier
Interleukin-2 is ia type of medication called a biologic response modifier. It is a type of protein called a cytokine that works to increase the production and function of some parts of your body's immune system. This protein is normally produced in the body, but in small amounts. By increasing levels of IL-2, the immune system gets a kick-start (specifically T cells and natural killer cells) to attack the cancer cells.
Interleukin-2 is given in two different ways. It can be given in higher doses into a vein (IV, intravenously) while the patient is monitored in the hospital. It can also be given in a low-dose regimen via a shot placed under the skin (SubQ, subcutaneous injection). The low-dose regimen is given on an outpatient basis (at home or in the provider's office). The actual dose depends on your body size. Premedication may be given to lower the risk of infusion reactions, like fever, chills, nausea, and low blood pressure.
Interleukin-2 can interact with many different medications. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take. This medication should not be used in people with abnormal cardiac (heart) or pulmonary (lung) function. Your provider may perform testing prior to starting this medication to be sure your function is normal. If you are having an imaging test (like an MRI) that uses contrast dye, tell your care team that you are being treated with or have been treated with Interleukin-2 in the past.
There are things you can do to manage the side effects of interleukin-2. Talk to your care team about these recommendations. They can help you decide what will work best for you. Keep in mind that these side effects are more common and more intense for people receiving the IV infusion, as opposed to the lower dose injection regimen. These are some of the most common or important side effects:
Capillary leak syndrome is a condition in which blood, and components of blood, leak out of vessels and into body cavities and muscles. The movement of this fluid out of the vessels can cause hypotension (low blood pressure) and organ failure. Signs and symptoms of capillary leak syndrome include a sudden drop in blood pressure, weakness, fatigue, sudden swelling of the arms, legs, or other parts of the body, nausea, and lightheadedness. If you are having any of these symptoms, tell your healthcare provider right away.
This medication can cause life-threatening infections, with or without a decrease in white blood cell counts. White blood cells (WBC) are important for fighting infection. While receiving treatment, your WBC count can drop, putting you at a higher risk of getting an infection. You should let your doctor or nurse know right away if you have a fever (temperature greater than 100.4°F/38°C), sore throat or cold, shortness of breath, cough, burning with urination, or a sore that doesn't heal.
Tips to preventing infection:
The interleukin-2 infusion (the high dose regimen) can cause a reaction that may include low blood pressure, increased heart rate or arrhythmias, shortness of breath, rash, nausea, diarrhea, and joint and muscle stiffness. The infusion may be stopped or slowed down if this occurs and medications may be given to stop the reaction. These reactions generally occur within 24 hours of the dose and most often resolve when the medication is stopped. Nearly all patients on the high-dose regimen will experience flushing of the face and body or skin rash.
This occurs in a majority of patients, no matter the regimen, because of the "revving-up" of the immune system. Flu-like syndrome occurs hours to days after the infusion and is characterized by fever, chills, weakness, muscle, and joint aches. Medications such as acetaminophen can be used to manage these symptoms. Try to keep warm with blankets and warm clothes, and drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. These symptoms tend to lessen over time on low-dose regimens.
Your oncology care team can recommend medications to relieve diarrhea. Also, try eating low-fiber, bland foods, such as white rice and boiled or baked chicken. Avoid raw fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads, cereals, and seeds. Soluble fiber is found in some foods and absorbs fluid, which can help relieve diarrhea. Foods high in soluble fiber include applesauce, bananas (ripe), canned fruit, orange sections, boiled potatoes, white rice, products made with white flour, oatmeal, cream of rice, cream of wheat, and farina. Drink 8-10 glasses of non-alcoholic, uncaffeinated fluid a day to prevent dehydration.
Talk to your oncology care team so they can prescribe medications to help you manage nausea and vomiting. In addition, dietary changes may help. Avoid things that may worsen the symptoms, such as heavy or greasy/fatty, spicy, or acidic foods (lemons, tomatoes, oranges). Try saltines, or ginger ale to lessen symptoms.
Call your oncology care team if you are unable to keep fluids down for more than 12 hours or if you feel lightheaded or dizzy at any time.
Rash, very dry, and/or itchy skin may occur. Antihistamines (like diphenhydramine) or topical steroids can be used to control symptoms if needed. It is important to prevent scratching and breaking of the skin, given the risk of skin infections with lowered white blood cell counts on this therapy. Oatmeal baths can be used to help with dry, itchy skin. Use an alcohol-free moisturizer on your skin and lips, avoiding moisturizers with perfumes or scents. If your skin does crack or bleed, be sure to keep the area clean to avoid infection. Be sure to notify your healthcare provider of any rash that develops, as this can be a reaction. They can give you more tips on caring for your skin.
This medication can cause liver toxicity, which your oncology care team may monitor for using blood tests called liver function tests. Notify your healthcare provider if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, your urine appears dark or brown, or you have pain in your abdomen, as these can be signs of liver toxicity.
Platelets help your blood clot, so when the count is low you are at a higher risk of bleeding. Let your oncology care team know if you have any excess bruising or bleeding, including nose bleeds, bleeding gums or blood in your urine or stool. If the platelet count becomes too low, you may receive a transfusion of platelets.
Your red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the tissues in your body. When the red cell count is low, you may feel tired or weak. You should let your oncology care team know if you experience any shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or pain in your chest. If the count gets too low, you may receive a blood transfusion.
This medication can cause kidney problems, including an increased creatinine level, which your oncology care team may monitor for using blood tests. Notify your healthcare provider if you notice decreased urine output, blood in the urine, swelling in the ankles, or loss of appetite.
Fatigue is very common during cancer treatment and is an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion that is not usually relieved by rest. While on cancer treatment, and for a period after, you may need to adjust your schedule to manage fatigue. Plan times to rest during the day and conserve energy for more important activities. Exercise can help combat fatigue; a simple daily walk with a friend can help. Talk to your healthcare team for helpful tips on dealing with this side effect.
Nutrition is an important part of your care. Cancer treatment can affect your appetite and, in some cases, the side effects of treatment can make eating difficult. Ask your nurse about nutritional counseling services at your treatment center to help with food choices.
Certain cancer treatments can cause sores or soreness in your mouth and/or throat. Notify your oncology care team if your mouth, tongue, inside of your cheek, or throat becomes white, ulcerated, or painful. Performing regular mouth care can help prevent or manage mouth sores. If mouth sores become painful, your doctor or nurse can recommend a pain reliever.
Exposure of an unborn child to this medication could cause birth defects, so you should not become pregnant or father a child while on this medication. Effective birth control is necessary during treatment. Even if your menstrual cycle stops or you believe you are not producing sperm, you could still be fertile and conceive. You should consult with your healthcare team before breastfeeding while receiving this medication.
OncoLink is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem or have questions or concerns about the medication that you have been prescribed, you should consult your health care provider.
Information Provided By: www.oncolink.org | © 2025 Trustees of The University of Pennsylvania