Irinotecan

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Irinotecan

Irinotecan (pronounced as i-rin-oh-TE-kan) is a chemotherapy drug used in the treatment of cancer. It is a type of topoisomerase inhibitor, specifically a topoisomerase I inhibitor, and is derived from the natural alkaloid camptothecin.

Etymology

The name "Irinotecan" is derived from the words "Irin" and "otecan". "Irin" is a reference to the drug's use in treating cancer, while "otecan" is a suffix used in the names of chemotherapy drugs that are topoisomerase inhibitors.

Usage

Irinotecan is used primarily in the treatment of colorectal cancer. It is often used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs, such as fluorouracil and leucovorin. It may also be used in the treatment of other types of cancer, such as lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and stomach cancer.

Mechanism of Action

As a topoisomerase I inhibitor, Irinotecan works by blocking the action of an enzyme called topoisomerase I, which is needed by cancer cells to divide and grow. By inhibiting this enzyme, Irinotecan prevents the cancer cells from dividing, thereby slowing or stopping the growth of the cancer.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Irinotecan include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. More serious side effects can include neutropenia, a condition characterized by low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection.

Related Terms

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