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Irinotecan (Camptosar)

Irinotecan: Possible Side Effects

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Immediate Side Effects (start wtihin 24 hours of infusion)

  • Early onset diarrhea.  Diarrhea which occurs during infusion or soon after is referred to as "early onset diarrhea" as compared to "late onset diarrhea" which is diarrhea which occurs later. It is not advisable to treat early onset diarrhea because it usually clears up on its own. Treating such diarrhea can lead to constipation.
  • Abdominal cramping (stomach pain) while the drug is being given
  • Mild sweating, wtihout or without feeling warm
  • Nausea/Vomiting.
  • Dizziness and/or trouble with eyesight. If you experience this side effect, do not drive or operate machinery while it continues.

Common Side Effects That Start Later

  • Diarrhea - Diarrhea must be treated immediately to prevent dehydration and other serious complications. In addition to an over the counter medication such as Imodium, it is advisable to get a prescription from  your doctor to have on hand in case you need something more effective to help control this side effect. That medication as prescribed as soon as ou notice anay loose stools.
  • Runny nose, increased salive, excess tears in the eyes, sweating, flushing and abdominal cramps (due to the fact that drug may affect part  of your nervous sytem that controls body secretions. This is known as cholinergic syndrome. Medications from your doctor can help control these symptoms.
  • Nausea/vomiting. As you will see if you click on the link, medication for nausea should always be kept on hand so you can take the medication on the first sign of nausea. Nausea can lead to vomiting which can lead to dehydration and complications.
  • Lowered white blood cell count with increased risk of infection. To learn how to avoid infection, click here.
  • Lowered platetlet count which can increase your risk of bleeding. Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen such as Mortin or Advil, products containing them, warafin (Coumadin), or vitamin E without checking with your doctor first. Tell your doctor right away if you have unusual bruising, or bleeding such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums when you brush your teeth, or black, tarry stools.
  • Temporary hair thinning or loss, including face and body hair
  • Abdominal (belly) pain (cramping)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue

According to the American Cancer Society, the following symptoms are less common 

  • Cholinergic syndrome (may include runny nose, increased saliva, sweating, tearing in the eyes, flushing, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea)
  • Sores in the mouth or on the lips*
  • Constipation
  • Skin rash
  • Abnormal blood tests which suggest that the drug is affecting the liver (Your doctor will discuss the importance of this finding, if any.)

According to the American Cancer Society, the following symptoms are rare

  • Llowered blood platelet count with increased risk of bleeding
  • Major blood clots in the veins of the legs or lungs which can travel to other parts of the body. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, pain, redness or warmth in an arm or leg.
  • Lowered red blood cell count (anemia)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cough
  • Feeling sleepy
  • Allergic reaction with shortness of breath, itching, hives, swelling in the mouth or throat, or dizziness, which can happen with the first dose or later doses of this drug
  • Death due to infection, bleeding, severe diarrhea, lung disease, or other problems

There are some other side effects not listed above that can also occur in some patients. Tell your doctor or nurse if you develop the above or any other problems.


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