Uses of Irinotecan

Irinotecan is used to treat advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer (cancers of colon and rectum). It can also be used to treat colorectal cancer among patients whose disease has recurred or progressed following initial chemotherapy with 5-Fluorouracil. 

Therapeutic Category

Irinotecan: Anticancer agents (Topoisomerase I inhibitors) 

How Irinotecan works

Irinotecan is an anticancer medication. It works by blocking the actions of certain enzymes (DNA-Topoisomerase-1) which is required for cells to grow and multiply. As a result, it prevents abnormal cell division and slows down the growth and spread of malicious cells within the body.

Common side effects of Irinotecan

• tiredness and pale skin
• increased infections
• loss of appetite
• hair loss
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
• mouth ulcers
• weakness
• difficulty in passing stools

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience severe infections causing fever due to low WBC count in blood
• If you experience severe diarrhoea, vomiting or nausea
• If you experience signs of acute cholinergic syndrome (such as runny nose, increased saliva, excess tears in the eyes, sweating, flushing, stomach cramps and diarrhoea)
• If you experience signs of lung problems (such as new or worsening cough, trouble breathing and fever)
• If you experience signs of blood clot formation in the body (such as chest pain, shortness of breath or swelling, pain, redness or warmth in an arm or leg)
• If you experience severe stomach pain with bloating and difficulty in passing stools
• If you experience severe pain, redness and swelling at the injection site

Health Tips for Irinotecan

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Because chemotherapy might cause dehydration, it is critical to replenish fluids
• Eat a balanced diet. Maintain a healthy diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This can help support your immune system and promote healing. If you experience nausea or loss of appetite, eat smaller, frequent meals throughout the day instead of large meals
• Try to eat smaller, frequent meals and avoid greasy or spicy foods. Stay away from high-fibre foods that may worsen diarrhoea
• If you experience redness or soreness at the infusion site, apply ice and contact your health care provider right away
• To treat/prevent mouth sores, use a gentle toothbrush and rinse three times a day with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon baking soda and/or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt combined with 8 ounces of water