Medicines/Generics/Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate)

Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate)

Generic medicine reference

Not yet clinically reviewed

This entry was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia app bundle and has not been reviewed by a named clinician on this site. It is provided for educational reference only — verify dosage and safety information against current, authoritative sources and a qualified healthcare professional before any clinical use.

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Overview

Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is an antineoplastic agent, also known as anticancer drugs. Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is a semisynthetic derivative of alkaloid camptothecin. Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is a pro-drug and is effective in the treatment of different cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancerous or abnormal cells. Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is used in combination of different anticancer drugs to achieve best results and to reduce toxicity or side effects. It has been recently approved for clinical use.

Indications

Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is primarily indicated in conditions like Carcinoma of colon, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Metastatic colorectal cancer.

Contraindications

Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is contraindicated in conditions like Bone marrow failure, Bowel obstruction.

Side Effects

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate), which give rise to further complications include Thrombocytopenia, Neutropenia, Cholinergic crises, Diarrhea, Anemia. The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Alopecia, Anorexia, Diarrhea, Mucositis, Fever, Constipation, Sweating, Nausea and vomiting, Neutropenia, Hypersalivation, Alopecia.

Warnings

Irinotecan should be used with caution in patients with history, including any allergy (especially drug allergies), history of radiation treatments, diabetes, liver or lung disease. Use of laxatives should be avoided since Irinotecan may cause diarrhea. Limit alcohol intake since it may aggravate side effects. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly, when rising from a seated or lying position. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly.

High Risk Groups

Drug should not be given to Pregnant Mothers. If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.

Adult Dosage

120 to 350 mg/sq.meter (240 (235)) As recommended. IV Inf — Over30-90 min., every 3-4 week

Child Dosage

( ) — Not recommended in this age group

Neonatal Dosage

( ) — Not recommended in this age group

Drug Interactions

Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementCarbamazepineKetoconazolePhenobarbital SodiumSt.Johns Wort ExtractVORICONAZOLEVoriconazoe may increase the serum concentration of irinotecan by decreasing its metabolism. Monitor for changes in the therapeutic and adverse effects These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Storage

Inj Store Below 40°C. Protect from Sunlight and Moisture.