WARNING

Irinotecan injection, a chemotherapy medication, can have several risks and side effects. Here are some of the potential risks:

• Bone Marrow Suppression: Irinotecan can lower your body’s ability to produce blood cells, leading to an increased risk of infections (due to low white blood cells), bleeding or bruising (due to low platelets), and fatigue (due to low red blood cells).
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Common side effects include diarrhea, which can be severe and lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are also possible.
• Liver Toxicity: Irinotecan can cause liver damage, leading to elevated liver enzymes and potentially liver failure in severe cases.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions ranging from mild rash to severe anaphylaxis.
• Neurological Effects: Irinotecan can cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, and peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in the hands and feet).
• Other Side Effects: Fatigue, hair loss, changes in taste, and fever are also possible.
• Secondary Cancers: There is a small risk of developing secondary cancers due to the treatment.

It’s crucial to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Irinotecan. They can help manage and mitigate these risks, monitor for any adverse effects, and provide supportive care as needed during your treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Irinotecan injection is prescribed primarily for the treatment of certain types of cancer, including:

• Colorectal Cancer: Irinotecan is often used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs for both metastatic and advanced colorectal cancer.
• Lung Cancer: It may be used in combination with other chemotherapy medications for small cell lung cancer.
• Pancreatic Cancer: Irinotecan is sometimes used in combination with other drugs for treating advanced pancreatic cancer.
• Other Cancers: It may also be prescribed for other types of cancer, either alone or in combination with other chemotherapy agents, based on the specific situation and oncologist’s recommendations.

How should this medicine be used?

Irinotecan is typically administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare provider in a clinic or hospital setting. The dosage and schedule of administration will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer being treated, the patient’s overall health, and how well the patient responds to the treatment.

• Dosage: The dosage of Irinotecan is calculated based on body surface area or weight.
• Administration: It is given slowly into a vein over a specific period of time, often around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
• Frequency: The treatment schedule varies but is usually given once every 1 to 3 weeks, followed by a period of rest to allow the body to recover.
• Monitoring: Patients receiving Irinotecan will be closely monitored for side effects during and after treatment. Blood tests may be done to check for any changes in blood cell counts or liver function.

It’s important for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and to report any side effects or concerns promptly. Irinotecan is a potent chemotherapy drug with potentially significant side effects, so its use requires close medical supervision.

Other uses for this medicine

• Ovarian Cancer: It can be part of the treatment regimen for advanced ovarian cancer, often in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.
• Cervical Cancer: Irinotecan may be used as part of a treatment plan for advanced cervical cancer, typically in combination with other medications.
• Brain Tumors: It has been studied for its potential effectiveness against certain types of brain tumors, although its use in this context is less common and often experimental or part of clinical trials.
• Other Solid Tumors: Irinotecan may be considered for other types of solid tumors that have not responded to standard treatments or in cases where alternative therapies are not suitable.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Irinotecan injection, several special precautions should be followed to ensure safe and effective treatment:

• Medical Supervision: Irinotecan should only be administered by healthcare professionals experienced in chemotherapy treatment, in a hospital or clinic setting equipped to manage potential side effects.
• Monitoring: Patients receiving Irinotecan will require regular monitoring of blood cell counts, liver function, and other relevant parameters to detect any potential adverse effects early.
• Pre-treatment Evaluation: Before starting Irinotecan, your healthcare provider will evaluate your overall health, including any pre-existing conditions, medications you are currently taking, and previous treatments.
• Hydration: Adequate hydration before and after treatment with Irinotecan is often recommended to reduce the risk of severe diarrhea, which is a common side effect.
• Neutropenia Prophylaxis: To reduce the risk of infection, your doctor may prescribe medications to stimulate white blood cell production (such as filgrastim) during treatment with Irinotecan.
• Diarrhea Management: Because diarrhea can be severe with Irinotecan, your healthcare provider may prescribe anti-diarrheal medications to manage symptoms and prevent dehydration.
• Liver Function: Irinotecan can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes is essential during treatment.
• Fertility Considerations: Irinotecan may cause infertility, so patients of reproductive age should discuss fertility preservation options with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Irinotecan can harm an unborn baby. It should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment with Irinotecan.
• Side Effect Management: Be vigilant for potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and neuropathy. Promptly report any symptoms to your healthcare provider.

Following these precautions helps maximize the benefits of Irinotecan while minimizing potential risks and complications associated with its use in cancer treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Avoid Certain Foods: During treatment with Irinotecan, it is advisable to avoid eating certain foods that can exacerbate diarrhea, such as spicy foods, greasy foods, and high-fiber foods.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or clear juices, to maintain hydration levels, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
• Nutrition: Eat small, frequent meals that are gentle on the digestive system, such as bland foods like rice, bananas, and toast. Your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian can provide more specific dietary guidance based on your individual needs and symptoms.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss an appointment for your Irinotecan injection, contact your healthcare provider or clinic as soon as possible to reschedule. It’s important to maintain the recommended treatment schedule to achieve the best possible outcomes. Missing a dose may affect the effectiveness of your treatment regimen, so follow your doctor’s instructions closely regarding the timing and frequency of Irinotecan injections.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Irinotecan is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various cancers. It can cause several side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects:
  • Diarrhea (which can be severe and lead to dehydration)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
• Hematologic Effects:
  • Decreased white blood cell count (neutropenia), which can increase the risk of infections
  • Decreased platelet count (thrombocytopenia), leading to an increased risk of bleeding
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak
• Hair Loss: Temporary hair thinning or loss
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Other Common Side Effects:
  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Changes in taste

In addition to these common side effects, Irinotecan can also cause more serious adverse reactions that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Severe Diarrhea: This can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and even death if not promptly treated.
• Severe Neutropenia: Increases the risk of serious infections.
• Interstitial Lung Disease: Symptoms can include cough, shortness of breath, and fever.
• Liver Toxicity: Elevated liver enzymes or liver damage.

Patients receiving Irinotecan should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals for these side effects. Dosing adjustments or discontinuation may be necessary based on the severity of these reactions.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Irinotecan Injection:

• Storage: Irinotecan injection should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically at room temperature (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F). Protect it from light and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Handling: Healthcare professionals should handle Irinotecan with care, using gloves and taking precautions to prevent accidental exposure. If the solution leaks from the vial or bag, avoid direct contact with skin or mucous membranes.
• Disposal: Any unused Irinotecan or materials used to prepare or administer it should be disposed of properly according to local regulations for hazardous waste disposal. This helps prevent environmental contamination and accidental exposure.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe adverse effects such as severe diarrhea, allergic reactions, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills), seek emergency medical help immediately.
• Symptomatic Treatment: Treatment for an overdose of Irinotecan will focus on managing symptoms and providing supportive care. This may include hydration, electrolyte balance, and monitoring for complications such as infection or severe diarrhea.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: During treatment with Irinotecan, your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your blood cell counts, liver function, and overall health to manage potential side effects and adjust treatment as needed.
• Follow-up Care: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for follow-up assessments and to discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Irinotecan can cause harm to an unborn baby and should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Contraception: If you are of childbearing age, use effective contraception during treatment and for some time afterward as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as some may interact with Irinotecan.
• Patient Support: Consider joining support groups or seeking counseling to help cope with the emotional and physical challenges of cancer treatment.

Understanding and following these guidelines can help ensure safe and effective use of Irinotecan injection for your treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding your medication or treatment plan.