Irinotecan Hydrochloride 40 mg/2 mL

What is this medication? Irinotecan hydrochloride is a chemotherapy drug specifically indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic cancer of the colon or rectum. It is commonly used as a first-line therapy in combination with other anti-cancer medications or as a single agent for patients whose cancer has returned or progressed after receiving initial treatments. The 40 mg/2 mL formulation is a concentrated liquid meant to be diluted and administered through an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional.

The medication belongs to a class of drugs known as topoisomerase I inhibitors. It works by targeting and blocking an enzyme that cancer cells need to copy their DNA, which is a necessary step for the cells to divide and grow. By interrupting this process, the medication helps slow down or stop the spread of the disease. Because it is a potent systemic treatment, it is administered in a clinical setting where medical staff can monitor the patient for response and potential side effects during the treatment cycle.