Aldesleukin
Aldesleukin dosing, mechanism of action, side effects, and clinical evidence. Complete reference for healthcare professionals.
ImmuneIntravenous (Proleukin)600,000 IU/kg IV q8h x 5 days (high-dose)
Overview
Aldesleukin (Proleukin) is a recombinant interleukin-2 (IL-2) used in high-dose regimens for advanced cancers.
Mechanism of Action
- T-cell expansion — Stimulates proliferation of CD8+ T cells and NK cells
- Immune activation — Potent activator of cell-mediated immunity
- Tumor lysis — Direct anti-tumor effects via immune cell activation
Dosing
High-dose: 600,000 IU/kg IV every 8 hours for 5 days (max 14 doses). Repeat cycle after 10-day rest.
Status
FDA-approved for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (1992) and metastatic melanoma (1998). Requires intensive inpatient monitoring.
Last updated: 2026-03-27