Irinotecan
Information about Irinotecan
Irinotecan uses
Irinotecan is used in the treatment of cancer of colon and rectum.
How irinotecan works
Irinotecan is an anti-cancer medication. It works by suppressing the activity of an enzyme (topoisomerase I) involved in DNA multiplication of the cancer cells. This slows the growth of cancer cells and eventually kills them.
Common side effects of irinotecan
Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, Weakness, Hair loss, Fever, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Diarrhea, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Decreased appetite, Mucosal inflammation
Available Medicine for Irinotecan
Expert advice for Irinotecan
- Irinotecan is used in combination with other medicines for the treatment of metastatic cancer of the colon and rectum.
- It is given via a drip into a vein (intravenous infusion).
- It may cause dizziness and visual disturbances. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
- Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine.
- Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your blood cells, kidney and liver function during treatment with this medicine.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat or rash.
- Inform your doctor if you notice passage of blood in stools or experience dizziness or faintness, continuous episodes of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or fever.