Irinotecan IV

In Depth

Generic Name: IRINOTECAN - INJECTION
Pronounced: (eye-ree-no-TEE-kan)

Irinotecan IV Warning

You will be closely monitored (e.g., blood tests) by your doctor while using this medication. Keep all medical and laboratory appointments.

Irinotecan may cause severe diarrhea, which can occur during or right after you receive this medication and/or more than 24 hours afterward. If the diarrhea starts immediately, you may also have other side effects such as runny nose, increased saliva, watery eyes, sweating, stomach cramps, or flushing. If the diarrhea starts later, it could be a different type that may be persistent and can cause serious (possibly fatal) loss of too much body water (dehydration), mineral imbalance, or serious infection (sepsis). Tell your doctor immediately if you have diarrhea and/or any of the symptoms that occur with the early form of diarrhea. Also tell your doctor if you have stomach/abdominal pain, extreme thirst, very dry mouth, muscle cramps/weakness, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat). Your doctor should prescribe other medications to treat the diarrhea and other symptoms.

This medication may cause very serious (possibly fatal) blood disorders (decreased bone marrow function leading to low number of blood cells such as white cells, red cells, and platelets). This effect can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection, cause your body to bruise or bleed easier, or cause anemia. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following: signs of infection (fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat.

Irinotecan IV Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, cough, drowsiness, mouth sores, weakness, or trouble sleeping may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be severe. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Eating several small meals, not eating before treatment, or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. If these effects persist or worsen, or if you are unable to drink/eat because of nausea/vomiting, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

< Page 1 2 >