What is this medication for?
Irinotecan belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medications known as antineoplastics. It kills cancer cells by interfering with the genetic material DNA, which is necessary for their growth and reproduction. Irinotecan is usually used in combination with other medications for the treatment of colon or rectal cancer.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Camptosar® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose and dosing schedule of irinotecan varies according to the stage of therapy, the stage of cancer, the response to therapy, and the person's body size. It is injected into a vein through a specially prepared site on the skin. The appropriate dose of irinotecan is usually given by an infusion over a period of about 90 minutes. The dose is usually given once weekly for 4 weeks, followed by a 2-week rest period or once every 3 weeks. This cycle is repeated until it is determined that treatment is completed. Very careful handling of this medication is required. Irinotecan is always used under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.
As well as interfering with the genetic material DNA of cancer cells, irinotecan can interfere with some of your normal cells. This can cause a number of side effects such as hair loss and mouth sores. Irinotecan can cause nausea and vomiting, but it is important to keep using this medication. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can advise you on how to reduce the effects of nausea and vomiting. Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section, "What side effects are possible with this medication?"
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Irinotecan should not be used by anyone who is allergic to irinotecan or any ingredients of the medication.