irinotecan liposomal

What is the most important information I should know about irinotecan liposomal?

What is irinotecan liposomal?

Irinotecan liposomal is used to treat pancreatic cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic). Irinotecan liposomal is usually given in combination with other cancer medicines.

Irinotecan liposomal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving irinotecan liposomal?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver or kidney disease;
• lung disease; or
• an intestinal disorder or obstruction.

• If you are a woman, you may need to have a negative pregnancy test. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 1 month after your last dose.
• If you are a man, use condoms if your sex partner is able to get pregnant. Keep using condoms for at least 4 months after your last dose.
• Tell your doctor right away if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using irinotecan liposomal.

How is irinotecan liposomal given?

Irinotecan liposomal is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take up to 90 minutes to complete.

Your doctor may recommend keeping anti-diarrhea medicine on hand at all times (such as loperamide or Imodium). Take this 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.

You may need frequent medical tests to be sure this medicine is not causing harmful effects. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results.

What happens if I miss a dose?

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while receiving irinotecan liposomal?

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

What are the possible side effects of irinotecan liposomal?

• severe or ongoing vomiting or diarrhea;
• black or bloody stools;
• sores or white patches in or around your mouth;
• new or worsening cough or shortness of breath;
• dehydration symptoms --feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin;
• low blood cell counts --fever, tiredness, skin sores, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, pale skin, cold hands and feet, feeling light-headed; or
• symptoms of sepsis --confusion, fever or chills, severe drowsiness, fast heartbeats, rapid breathing, feeling very ill.

Common side effects may include:

• fever, mouth sores, or other signs of infection;
• diarrhea;
• nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite; or
• feeling weak or tired.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect irinotecan liposomal?

Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medications at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you take, which may increase side effects or make the medications less effective.

Many drugs can affect irinotecan liposomal. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about irinotecan liposomal.