Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate)
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is an antineoplastic agent, also known as anticancer drugs. Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is a semisynthetic derivative of alkaloid camptothecin. Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is a pro-drug and is effective in the treatment of different cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancererous or abnormal cells. Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is used in combination of different anticancer drugs to achieve best results and to reduce toxicity or side effects. It has been recently approved for clinical use.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Dipiperidine.
It belongs to DNA Strand Breakage pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antineoplastic Agent, Plant Derivative , Antineoplastic Agent, Plant Derivative pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 677.2 · Solubility in Water: soluble · Non-proprietary name: Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate).

Pharmacokinetics
Distribution: Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) has a volume of distribution is 263. plasma protein binding is 30 - 68 %.
Elimination: it is metabolised via hepatic, plasma half-life is 10 hr, renal excretion is 16.7(15.7-17.7)%.
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Indications
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is primarily indicated in conditions like Carcinoma of colon.
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is also indicated for secondary conditions like Metastatic colorectal cancer.
Contraindications
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is contraindicated in conditions like Bone marrow failure, Bowel obstruction.
Dosage
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 125 – 350 mg/sq.meter | — | — | IV Inf | As recomemnted,Over30-90 min., every 3-4 week |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended in this age group | |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended in this age group | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Thrombocytopenia , Neutropenia , Cholinergic crises , Diarrhea, Anaemia .
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Anorexia , Constipation , Diarrhea, Fever, Hypersalivation , Mucositis, Nausea and vomiting, Neutropenia, Sweating .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Irinotecan (HCl Trihydrate) may interfere in the diagnosis of Monitoring of hematologic profile.
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.8.2 — Cytotoxic (anti-neoplastic) drugs