Irinotecan

Patients who suffer from colon or rectal cancer might receive irinotecan injections. This medication is injected directly into the veins over the course of 90 minutes once a week. Patients may receive the drug every week or every few weeks, depending on their symptoms and their general health.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication causes a variety of side effects for up to 24 hours after it is given, including:

• Stomach cramps
• Shrinking pupils
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Sweating
• Diarrhea

If you continue to have diarrhea more than 24 hours after receiving the medication, call your doctor. Continued diarrhea can cause dehydration and kidney problems. If you feel extremely dizzy, have a fever, shaking chills or nausea that prevents you from keeping liquids down, contact your doctor immediately.