Products
Irinotecansucrosofate was approved in many countries in 2017 as a concentrate for the preparation of an infusion solution (Onivyde).
Structure and properties
Irinotecansucrosofate is a nanoliposomal formulation of irinotecan. The drug is present enclosed in liposomes and therefore has a much longer half-life than irinotecan. The formulation may also contribute to lower toxicity and better targeting, according to the literature.
Effects
Irinotecan (ATC L01XX19) has cytotoxic and antitumor properties. The effects are due to selective inhibition of topoisomerase I. This causes single-strand breaks in DNA, ultimately leading to cancer cell death.
Indications
For the treatment of metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreas in combination with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin in adult patients whose disease has progressed on gemcitabine-based therapy.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Breastfeeding
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects of combination therapy include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, neutropenia, fatigue, weakness, anemia, stomatitis, and fever.