Irinotecan Injection (IRINOTECAN - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

Avoid getting medicine on the skin or in the eyes. If this happens, wash the skin with soap and water. For eyes, open eyelid and flush with plenty of water and tell your doctor right away.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting. Do not stand or sit up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not operate machinery or drive while on this medicine.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 1 week after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
• decreased appetite
• diarrhea
• drowsiness or sedation
• hair loss
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• mouth sores or irritation
• nausea and vomiting
• blurring or changes of vision

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• bleeding or bruising
• wheezing or difficulty breathing
• chest pain
• cough that does not go away
• severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
• dizziness
• fainting
• feeling of heat or flushing
• fever or chills
• numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• fast or irregular heart beats
• signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
• lightheadedness
• muscle cramps or weakness
• runny nose
• shortness of breath
• sore throat
• slurred speech
• stomach upset or abdominal pain
• bloody or dark, tarry stools
• sweating
• excessive thirst
• unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
• watering of the eyes
• weakness on one side of the body

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.