Irinotecan Hydrochloride

Generic Name

Irinotecan Hydrochloride

Other Names

• Camptosar

Drug Class

• Topoisomerase inhibitor

Chemical Formula

C33H39ClN4O6

Molecular Weight

623.14 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

• Inhibits topoisomerase I enzyme, leading to DNA damage and cell death

Indications

• Colorectal cancer
• Small cell lung cancer

Common Dosage Forms

• Injection solution for intravenous infusion

Typical Dosage

• 180-350 mg/m2, usually given once every 2 weeks

Pediatric Dosage

• Limited data available, individualized dosing required

Geriatric Dosage

• Dose adjustment may be needed based on age and overall health

Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Neutropenia
• Fatigue
• Hair loss

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to irinotecan
• Bowel obstruction

Pregnancy Category

• D - Positive evidence of risk

Lactation Safety

• L3 - Moderately safe

Drug Interactions

• Fluconazole
• Phenytoin
• Rifampin

Overdose Symptoms

• Severe diarrhea
• Myelosuppression

Antidote for Overdose

• Atropine for cholinergic symptoms
• G-CSF for myelosuppression

Storage Conditions

• Store in a refrigerator at 2-8°C, protect from light

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: IV administration results in complete bioavailability
• Distribution: Extensively distributed in tissues
• Metabolism: Primarily in the liver via carboxylesterase to SN-38 active metabolite
• Excretion: Mainly in the feces

Precautions

• Monitor blood counts regularly during treatment

Warnings

• Risk of severe diarrhea
• Fatal neutropenic sepsis