Irinotecan - (Camptosar®)

This drug is commonly used to treat colorectal cancer and other cancers. 

Drug and side effects facts

Generic name: irinotecan (EYE-ri-noe-TEE-kan)

Brand names: Campto®, Camptosar®

Primary uses: Irinotecan is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of more serious forms of colorectal cancer in combination with other cancer medications, such as drugs called fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin. Irinotecan is also approved for treatment of colon cancer that recurs or progresses following fluorouracil-based therapy.

Secondary uses: Irinotecan can also be used to treat one form of lung cancer called non-small-cell lung cancer and other forms of cancers such as breast cancer. These additional uses, however, have not necessarily been approved by the FDA.

Side effects: Based on their genetic make-up, some people are at increased risk for severe side effects with this drug. These include diarrhea that can lead to hospitalization, and suppression of the immune system which can lead to increased susceptibility to infection. Other less severe side effects, which are not associated with a person’s specific genetic makeup, include hair loss (alopecia) and nausea.