Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 21, 2022.
Early and late forms of diarrhea can occur. Early diarrhea may be accompanied by cholinergic symptoms which may be prevented or ameliorated by atropine; late diarrhea can be life threatening and should be treated promptly with loperamide. Monitor patients with diarrhea and give fluid and electrolytes as needed. Institute antibiotic therapy if patients develop ileus, fever, or severe neutropenia. Interrupt irinotecan and reduce subsequent doses if severe diarrhea occurs. Severe myelosuppression may occur .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Camptosar
- Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antineoplastic Agent
Pharmacologic Class: Topoisomerase I Inhibitor
Uses for irinotecan
Irinotecan injection is given together with other medicines (eg, 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin) to treat patients with metastatic cancer (a cancer that has already spread) of the colon or rectum. Irinotecan is also given to patients with metastatic cancer of the colon or rectum who have received fluorouracil but disease has progressed or recurred.
Irinotecan belongs to the group of medicines called antineoplastics (cancer medicines). It interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal cells may also be affected by the medicine, other effects may also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects, like hair loss, may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may occur after treatment with irinotecan has been stopped. Be sure that you have discussed with your doctor the possible side effects of irinotecan as well as the benefits it can do.
Irinotecan is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Before using irinotecan
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For irinotecan, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual..
