How is irinotecan liposomal given?
Irinotecan liposomal is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection. This medicine is usually given once every 2 weeks.
The IV infusion can take at least 90 minutes to complete. Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle.
If any of this medicine gets on your skin, wash right away with soap and water.
You may be given medicine to prevent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other side effects.
Irinotecan liposomal can cause severe diarrhea, which can be life-threatening if it leads to dehydration.
Your doctor may recommend you keep anti-diarrhea medicine (such as loperamide or Imodium) on hand at all times. Take the anti-diarrhea medicine at the first sign of loose or frequent bowel movements. Do not take loperamide for longer than 2 full days without your doctor's advice.
Call your doctor whenever you have diarrhea during your treatment with irinotecan liposomal.
Irinotecan liposomal can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. Your blood will need to be tested often. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using irinotecan liposomal.