IRINOTEL 40 MG INJ 2ML

About

Irinotecan is a semi-synthetic analog of camptothecin, functioning as a potent topoisomerase I inhibitor, a critical class of chemotherapy agents. It is widely utilized in the treatment of various solid tumors, most notably metastatic colorectal cancer, often as a cornerstone in combination regimens. Irinotecan acts as a prodrug, undergoing metabolic activation to its highly potent metabolite, SN-38. SN-38 selectively binds to and stabilizes the cleavable complex formed by topoisomerase I and DNA, preventing the re-ligation of DNA single-strand breaks. This accumulation of DNA damage during replication leads to cell cycle arrest and ultimately induces apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells, thereby contributing to tumor regression and improved patient survival.

Uses

• Metastatic colorectal cancer
• Pancreatic cancer (off-label)
• Gastric cancer (off-label)
• Small cell lung cancer (off-label)

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency are determined by the physician based on the specific cancer and patient's body surface area.

Benefits

• Effective against various solid tumors.
• Key component in metastatic colorectal cancer regimens.
• Improves progression-free and overall survival.
• Can be used as monotherapy or in combination.
• Targets a critical enzyme in DNA replication.
• Contributes to tumor response and disease control.

Side Effects

• Severe diarrhea (early and late onset)
• Myelosuppression (neutropenia)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Alopecia (hair loss)
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Cholinergic syndrome (early onset)
• Fever
• Mucositis
• Anorexia
• Dehydration
• Allergic reactions

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects, particularly diarrhea, and potentially increase liver toxicity.
• Pregnancy - Irinotecan is embryotoxic and teratogenic. It is contraindicated in pregnancy; effective contraception is essential for both male and female patients during and for several months after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is contraindicated during irinotecan therapy due to the potential for serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Use with extreme caution in patients with hepatic impairment; monitor liver function tests closely. Dose adjustments are often necessary, especially with elevated bilirubin.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; monitor kidney function tests regularly. Dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Lung - Rare cases of interstitial lung disease have been reported. Monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms, especially dyspnea and cough.

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