Cytostatic Therapy: Topoisomerase Inhibitors

Active ingredients Dosage Special features
Irinotecan 100 mg/m² i.v. over 90 minutes Irinotecan is a prodrug (inactive substance) that is cytotoxic only after activation in the liver.
Etoposide 200 mg/m² i. v. Etoposide has an allergenic effect and may lead to reduction in blood pressure
  • Mode of action: Inhibition of topoisomerase I or II induces apoptosis (programmed cell death). In many tumors, topoisomerase is upregulated (increased activity).
  • Side effects: Severe diarrhea (diarrhea), allergies, leukopenia (lack of white blood cells), thrombopenias (lack of platelets), nausea (nausea), vomiting – depending on the drug.

The effects, indications, side effects and substances listed above represent an overview and do not claim to be complete.