How is Irinotecan dosed?
Irinotecan is given together with other medicines, such as 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin, to treat patients with metastatic cancer of the colon or rectum. It is also used for patients with metastatic cancer of the colon or rectum who have received fluorouracil but the disease has progressed or recurred. If diarrhea occurs more than 24 hours after a dose of irinotecan, loperamide (Imodium A-D) should be taken as soon as bowel movements become more frequent or loose. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist, even if they differ from the directions on the nonprescription loperamide package label. The recommended dosage of loperamide for treating diarrhea caused by irinotecan is higher than the amount recommended on the package label. If the diarrhea is not controlled within 24 hours, contact your doctor.
What is the dosage form of Irinotecan?
Intravenous
How is Irinotecan administered?
Irinotecan is administered intravenously by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or outpatient clinic. It is typically given together with other medications to treat metastatic cancer of the colon or rectum. The specific administration procedure may vary depending on the patient's medical condition, other medications being taken, and the healthcare professional's judgment.
What are common precautions when taking Irinotecan?
Common precautions when taking irinotecan include:
- Informing your healthcare professional of any history of allergic reactions to this medicine or any other medications.
- Reporting any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, rash, itching, trouble breathing, or swelling, to your healthcare professional immediately.
- Being aware of the risk of a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which may require immediate medical attention.
- Informing your healthcare professional of any other allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
- Reporting any severe or prolonged diarrhea to your healthcare professional immediately, as it may require specific treatment.
- Informing your healthcare professional of any symptoms before the onset of diarrhea, such as stomach cramps or sweating.
- Taking caution and adjusting the dose if you are an elderly patient, as you are more likely to experience severe diarrhea.
- Avoiding the use of this medicine in pediatric populations, as its safety and efficacy have not been established.