Irinotecan is used to treat various types of cancer, mainly cancers of the digestive system. Learn how the medication is given, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

Irinotecan is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer, mainly cancers of the digestive system. It works by blocking the cell division process and eventually causing cancer cell death. It may be given on its own or in combination with other anticancer drugs.

How should I take or use this medication?

Irinotecan is injected into the vein (given intravenously) as an infusion (drip).

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
  • Female patients who may become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for 6 months after your last treatment.
  • Male patients with female partners of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose of treatment.
  • Do not breastfeed during treatment.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies. 

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Decreased white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. This may put you at increased risk of infections, bleeding or bruising, and feeling tired. 
  • To reduce your risk of infection:
    • Practice good personal hygiene.
    • Avoid eating raw or half-cooked food.
    • Avoid crowded places and coming into close contact with people who are not feeling well. Wear a face mask when you’re going out.
  • To reduce your risk of bleeding:
    • Be careful when using sharp objects such as knives.
    • Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Diarrhoea. Diarrhoea may occur as early diarrhoea (within 24 hours of treatment) or late diarrhoea (a few days after treatment).
  • To manage diarrhoea:
    • Drink more water or clear fluids to replace the fluids lost.
    • Avoid oily, spicy food or dairy products.
    • If you have been given anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide, take as instructed.
• Mild nausea or vomiting
  • Take small, frequent meals. 
  • Avoid food/smells that may make you feel nauseous such as oily, fried food or strong-smelling food.
• Hair loss
  • This is a temporary side effect that may be more obvious a few weeks after treatment.
  • Use a mild shampoo (such as baby shampoo) to wash your hair and scalp.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

• Symptoms of infection such as high fever of 38 ⁰C and above
• Unusual bleeding, bruising or black sticky stools
• Severe diarrhoea (more than 4 times a day)
• Symptoms of lung problems such as a dry cough that doesn’t go away, or feeling breathless, chest tightness or wheezing
• Drug allergy. The symptoms of drug allergy include one or more of the following:
  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Avoid taking traditional Chinese medications (TCM) or “jamu” when you are on this medication.

What else should I know about this medication?

To lower the chances of getting certain side effects, you will be given an injection of atropine under the skin before each treatment:

• This injection is given to prevent cholinergic syndrome which may happen within 24 hours after treatment. Symptoms may include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, excessive sweating and increased salivation. 

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on October 2023