GNH USA

Europe — EMA

Irinotecan Cell Pharm

GNH USA supplies Irinotecan Cell Pharm (Irinotecan), a topoisomerase I inhibitor for metastatic colorectal cancer and adjuvant treatment.

Irinotecan

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What is Irinotecan?

Irinotecan, the active ingredient in Irinotecan Cell Pharm, is a topoisomerase I inhibitor presented as an intravenous solution for intravenous use. It is employed in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer, as adjuvant therapy for colorectal cancer, and in other solid tumours as determined by clinical judgment.

GNH USA supplies Irinotecan Cell Pharm as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, oncology centres and pharmacies worldwide.

What is Irinotecan used for?

Irinotecan is indicated for colorectal cancer and related solid tumours, acting on the topoisomerase I pathway.

- Metastatic colorectal cancer: improves overall survival when used in combination chemotherapy regimens. - Adjuvant treatment of colorectal cancer: reduces risk of disease recurrence after surgical resection. - Other solid tumours (clinical judgment): may be incorporated into protocols for selected gastrointestinal or pancreatic cancers.

What are the side effects of Irinotecan?

Irinotecan may cause a range of adverse reactions, which are categorised by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects: - Neutropenia: reduced white‑blood‑cell count increasing infection risk. - Diarrhoea: often delayed and may be severe. - Nausea and vomiting: typical chemotherapy‑related symptoms. - Alopecia: temporary hair loss. - Fatigue: generalized tiredness during treatment. - Abdominal cramping: related to gastrointestinal irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Febrile neutropenia: fever with low neutrophil count requiring urgent care. - Severe diarrhoea (colitis): can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. - Cholinergic syndrome: sweating, lacrimation, bradycardia, and bronchospasm. - Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, urticaria, or anaphylaxis. - Hepatic dysfunction: elevated transaminases or bilirubin. - Severe electrolyte disturbances: especially hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.

What precautions apply to Irinotecan?

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should assess patient‑specific risk factors and monitor for toxicity. - Monitor blood counts: perform regular complete blood counts to detect neutropenia. - Assess liver function: evaluate hepatic enzymes and bilirubin prior to each cycle. - Evaluate gastrointestinal status: avoid use in patients with active bowel obstruction. - Pregnancy risk: contraindicated in pregnancy (Category D) due to fetal toxicity. - Dose adjustment: consider reduced dosing in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. - Store at ambient temperature: keep in original container, protect from light and moisture.

What does Irinotecan interact with?

Irinotecan interacts with several drug classes that can alter its metabolism or increase toxicity.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): raise SN‑38 levels and risk of severe neutropenia. - UGT1A1 inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir, indinavir): impair SN‑38 glucuronidation, increasing toxicity. - Concurrent myelosuppressive agents: additive bone‑marrow suppression.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): enhanced bleeding risk due to mucosal injury. - Antidiarrhoeal agents (e.g., loperamide): may mask early signs of severe diarrhoea. - Electrolyte‑altering drugs (e.g., diuretics): monitor for hypokalaemia and hypomagnesaemia.

Frequently asked questions

What is Irinotecan Cell Pharm used for?+
Irinotecan Cell Pharm is an intravenous chemotherapy used primarily for metastatic colorectal cancer, as adjuvant therapy after surgical resection of colorectal tumours, and in selected solid tumours where a topoisomerase I inhibitor is indicated. It is administered under the supervision of an oncologist as part of a combination regimen.
How does Irinotecan work?+
Irinotecan is a pro‑drug that is metabolised to SN‑38, an active compound that binds to the DNA‑topoisomerase I enzyme. This binding prevents the re‑ligation of single‑strand DNA breaks during replication, leading to accumulation of DNA damage and triggering apoptosis of rapidly dividing cancer cells.
What is the usual dose of Irinotecan?+
The dose of Irinotecan is individualized by the prescribing oncologist based on factors such as tumour type, patient weight, performance status, liver function and prior chemotherapy exposure. The prescriber determines the exact amount, infusion rate and schedule for each treatment cycle.
Is Irinotecan safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?+
Irinotecan is classified as Pregnancy Category D, indicating evidence of fetal risk. It should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the risk. Breast‑feeding is also contraindicated because the drug is excreted in milk and may harm the infant.
How do I order Irinotecan Cell Pharm from GNH USA?+
To place an order, submit an enquiry on the Irinotecan Cell Pharm product page at gnh-usa.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH USA works with hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details (including any cold‑chain requirements) and necessary import documentation.
How does Irinotecan compare with the main alternative drug or class?+
The primary alternative to Irinotecan in colorectal cancer regimens is topotecan, another topoisomerase I inhibitor, though it is less commonly used for this indication. Compared with oxaliplatin‑based regimens, Irinotecan offers a different toxicity profile, with more pronounced diarrhoea and neutropenia but less peripheral neuropathy.
What are the storage and handling requirements for Irinotecan Cell Pharm?+
Irinotecan Cell Pharm should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in its original packaging to protect it from moisture and light. The solution must be inspected for particulate matter before use and should be administered shortly after reconstitution according to aseptic technique.
How is Irinotecan administered?+
Irinotecan is given as an intravenous infusion, typically over 30 to 90 minutes depending on the protocol. The infusion is performed in a clinical setting by qualified healthcare personnel, with monitoring for acute reactions and vital signs throughout the administration.
What are the most serious risks to watch for while receiving Irinotecan?+
The most critical adverse events include severe neutropenia (especially febrile neutropenia), life‑threatening diarrhoea or colitis, cholinergic syndrome (characterised by sweating, bradycardia and bronchospasm), and rare hypersensitivity reactions. Prompt medical attention is required if any of these symptoms develop.
Who should not use Irinotecan?+
Irinotecan is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components, in pregnant women, and in individuals with severe hepatic impairment (elevated bilirubin >1.5 ×  ULN). Caution is also advised for patients with pre‑existing severe neutropenia or uncontrolled infections.
Information provided on this page is for educational use by procurement and clinical professionals. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for medical advice and prescribing decisions. GNH USA supplies this product subject to applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.

Product details

Drug
Irinotecan
Route
Intravenous Use
Manufacturer
Stadapharm Gmbh
Origin
EU

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