Description and Brand Names
Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®
US Brand Name
- Camptosar
- Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride
Descriptions
Irinotecan injection is given together with other medicines (eg, 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin) to treat patients with metastatic cancer (a cancer that has already spread) of the colon or rectum. This medicine is also given to patients with metastatic cancer of the colon or rectum who have received fluorouracil but disease has progressed or recurred.
Irinotecan belongs to the group of medicines called antineoplastics (cancer medicines). It interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal cells may also be affected by the medicine, other effects may also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects, like hair loss, may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may occur after treatment with irinotecan has been stopped. Be sure that you have discussed with your doctor the possible side effects of this medicine as well as the benefits it can do.
This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
This product is available in the following dosage forms:
Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2024
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