Campto 100mg

Campto Injection contains 100 mg of irinotecan, a topoisomerase inhibitor that disrupts DNA replication in cancer cells, slowing their growth and spread. Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional, it’s used to treat advanced or metastatic colon or rectal cancer, typically alongside other medications. Its targeted action helps shrink tumors or slow disease progression in these aggressive cancers, but it requires careful medical oversight due to its strength.

Expert Review

Dr. Zehra Fadoo, a leading Pakistani oncologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, explains that irinotecan’s interference with DNA topoisomerase I makes it effective for advanced colorectal cancer by halting cancer cell division. She emphasizes its role in combination therapies but notes the need for vigilant monitoring for side effects like diarrhea or low blood counts to ensure patient safety.

Primary Uses

• Treats advanced or metastatic colon or rectal cancer, usually with other drugs.

Indications

Used in combination therapy for adults with advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer to slow tumor growth and manage disease progression.

Side Effects

Common issues include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, or fever. Less common effects may involve infections (e.g., fever, chills, cough), mouth sores, breathing issues, or signs of acute cholinergic syndrome (runny nose, sweating, cramps). Contact your doctor if severe or prolonged.

Warnings

• Pregnancy: Avoid unless critical, as it may harm the fetus. Consult your doctor.
• Lactation: Not recommended; discuss alternatives with your doctor.
• Driving: Avoid if dizzy or visually impaired after treatment.
• Infections: Report fever (38°C+), chills, or urinary pain immediately.

Precautions

• Monitor for severe diarrhea lasting over 24 hours, dizziness, or fainting.
• Use cautiously with Gilbert’s syndrome, kidney/heart issues, or recent pelvic/abdominal radiation.
• Report chest pain, leg swelling, or breathing trouble, as these may signal serious issues.
• Avoid live vaccines (e.g., measles, yellow fever) during treatment.
• Inform your doctor if taking aspirin, warfarin, or vitamin E, or if unable to keep fluids down.

Contraindications

Avoid if:

• Allergic to irinotecan or its ingredients.
• You have chronic inflammatory bowel disease or bowel blockage.
• Breastfeeding or have bilirubin levels over 3 times normal.
• Severe bone marrow failure or poor physical condition (WHO performance status >2).
• Taking St. John’s wort or recent live attenuated vaccines.

How to Use

Administered intravenously by a doctor or nurse in a hospital setting, typically as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen. Follow your doctor’s dosing schedule and any aftercare instructions. Do not self-inject.

Interactions

• May interact with seizure medications (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, fosphenytoin), antifungals (ketoconazole), or laxatives/stool softeners, affecting efficacy or side effects.
• Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbals to avoid complications.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light; do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Handled only by medical professionals.

Quick Tips

• Stay hydrated to manage diarrhea risks.
• Report fever, severe diarrhea, or breathing issues immediately.
• Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
• Follow up regularly for blood and liver tests.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only. Consult a doctor for personalized advice on side effects, precautions, or interactions, as individual needs vary.