irinotecan, an antineoplastic hormone. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is used to treat metastatic carcinoma of the colon or rectum. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy and known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibit its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Life-threatening effects include leukopenia, anemia, and neutropenia. Other adverse effects include fever, headache, chills, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, constipation, cramps, flatus, stomatitis, dyspepsia, site irritation, rash, sweating, dyspnea, increased cough, rhinitis, vasodilation, edema, asthenia, and weight loss.
