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Irinotel 40mg Injection
Last updated on 19 Aug 2026 | 06:52 AM (IST)
₹414
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Introduction
Irinotel 40 mg Injection belongs to the group of medications called anti-cancer medicines or cytostatics and contains the active ingredient Irinotecan hydrochloride trihydrate. It is indicated for advanced colon cancer and rectal cancer in adults. Irinotel 40mg uses include treatment of these cancers either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. Cancer in the colon and rectum is more common in age groups above 50 and can be influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Irinotel 40mg for colon cancer is particularly prescribed to manage disease progression and improve patient outcomes.
This medication works by interfering with the growth and multiplication of cancer cells. How Irinotel 40mg works is by inhibiting topoisomerase I, an enzyme necessary for DNA replication in cancer cells, thereby slowing tumor growth and promoting cancer cell death.
Common adverse effects of Irinotel 40 mg Injection include myelosuppression (bone marrow suppression leading to low levels of RBC, WBC, and platelets) and diarrhea. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, anemia, fatigue, fever, infections including sepsis, abnormal bilirubin levels, hair loss, and weight loss. Patients should inform their doctor if these side effects persist or significantly affect their daily life.
Uses
- Treatment of metastatic cancer of the colon and rectum (large intestine).
How Irinotel 40mg Injection works
Irinotel 40 mg Injection works by converting its active metabolite with the help of liver enzymes and inhibits the Topoisomerase I enzyme. This causes damage to the DNA synthesis and its replication, thus preventing the cancer cells from growing and spreading.
Interaction of Irinotel 40mg Injection with other drugs
Inform your doctor about any prescribed medications, over-the-counter medications, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products that you are taking or have taken before the treatment. Certain medications tend to interact with Irinotel 40 mg Injection and can cause potential side effects.
Storage conditions
- Do not freeze.
- Store protected from light at a temperature not exceeding 25°C.
- Keep this medicine away from the sight and reach of children.
How to use Irinotel 40mg Injection
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Your healthcare professional administers it into your vein. Do not self-administer. Your physician will recommend a DNA test before taking this medicine. The dose depends on your age, size, and medical condition.
Safety Advice for Irinotel 40mg Injection
Breast Feeding
It is unsafe to use during breastfeeding as Irinotel 40 mg Injection, and its metabolites are found in human milk. It must be discontinued for the duration of therapy. Consult your doctor for advice.
Alcohol
It is unknown whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Irinotel 40 mg Injection. Check with your doctor for advice.
Liver
Irinotel 40 mg Injection is used with caution in patients with liver impairment. Inform your physician before starting treatment if you have liver disease or jaundice. Your physician will monitor your liver functions and adjust the dose accordingly.
Lungs
It is unknown whether it is safe to administer Irinotel 40 mg Injection in patients with lung disorders. Please consult your doctor for more advice.
Driving
You may feel dizzy or tired for 24 hours after taking this medicine. Do not use any tools or drive during treatment with Irinotel 40 mg Injection.
Pregnancy
Irinotel 40 mg Injection is unsafe to use during pregnancy as it may harm the developing baby. Women who have potential childbearing use effective contraceptives during and after 6 months after treatment.
Side Effects
Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them. Irinotel 40mg side effects are
Serious:
- Early and late diarrhea
- Allergic reactions
- Kidney impairment
- Lung problems
- Low levels of RBC, WBC, and platelets in the blood
Common:
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Anemia
- Pain
- Fatigue
- Fever, infections including sepsis
- Abnormal bilirubin levels
- Hair loss
- Weight loss
Expert tips
-
Early sign: Diarrhea is the first indication of Irinotel 40 mg Injection side effects.
-
Timing concern: Diarrhea occurring more than 24 hours after administration may be serious.
-
Immediate action: Treat diarrhea promptly and keep the patient under close supervision.
-
Risks if untreated: Untreated diarrhea can lead to dehydration and serious chemical imbalances, which may be life-threatening.
-
Avoid certain medications: Refrain from using laxatives and stool softeners while on this medicine.
-
Hydration: Drink plenty of water and rehydration fluids immediately.
-
Medication: Use antidiarrheal treatment, such as loperamide, as advised by a doctor.
FAQs about Irinotel 40mg Injection
Q1.
Do you always lose your hair with Irinotel 40 mg Injection?
Hair loss is common with Irinotel 40 mg Injection. It usually starts 3-4 weeks after the first dose of this medication.
Q2.
Does Irinotel 40 mg Injection cause liver damage?
Irinotel 40 mg Injection may cause liver impairment or damage. Inform your physician before starting treatment if you have liver disease or jaundice.
Q3.
What happens if Irinotel 40 mg Injection is taken in more than recommended dose?
If Irinotel 40 mg Injection is taken in more than the recommended doses, it can cause severe blood disorders and diarrhea.
Q4.
Which is the best area to administer Irinotel 40 mg Injection?
Irinotel 40 mg Injection will be administered into the vein under strict medical supervision. Do not self-administer.
Q5.
Ways to reduce the risk of diarrhea while using Irinotel 40 mg Injection"
Drink large amounts of water and rehydration fluids to prevent diarrhea. It is advised to take antidiarrheal medicines, including loperamide.
Fact Box of Irinotel 40mg Injection
|
Molecule name |
Irinotecan |
|
Therapeutic class |
Topoisomerase I inhibitors |
|
Pharmacological class |
Antineoplastics |
|
Indications: |
Colon and rectum cancer (large intestine cancer) |
References
- Accord Healthcare Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on June 2022] [Accessed on 24 Nov 2022], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7318.pdf
- Pharmacia & Upjohn Co, US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Dec 2014] [Accessed on 24 Nov 2022], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/020571s048lbl.pdf
- I.D. Penman, C.W. Lees, Alimentary Tract and Pancreatic Disease, Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 22nd Edition, 2014, 837-920.
- Edward Chu, Cancer Chemotherapy, Lange’s Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 948-976.
Disclaimer
MrMed’s primary intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is reviewed by experts, accurate and trustworthy. The information and contents of this website are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of your doctor and discuss all your queries related to any disease or medicine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on MrMed. Our mission is to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.
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Author Details
Written By
Dr. Bhairavi S
Pharm. D
Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 19 Aug 2026 | 06:52 AM (IST)
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