Irinotel 100mg Injection (Irinotecan): Comprehensive Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Severe diarrhea (more than 6 stools per day) or diarrhea with dehydration
- Signs of severe allergic reaction: rash, hives, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
- New or worsening cough or shortness of breath
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is iretrol-taj 100mg injection used for?
This medicine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer and other cancers. It works by blocking an enzyme needed for cancer cell DNA replication, leading to cell death. It is given by intravenous infusion under medical supervision.
- Generic Name: Irinotecan (100mg)
- Manufacturer: Taj Pharma India Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 iretrol-taj 100mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा इरिनोटेकन का इंजेक्शन है, जिसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से मेटास्टेटिक कोलोरेक्टल कैंसर (आंत के कैंसर) के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कीमोथेरेपी की दवा है जो कैंसर कोशिकाओं के डीएनए को नष्ट करके उन्हें मरने में मदद करती है। यह दवा अस्पताल में डॉक्टर की देखरेख में नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है। यह फेफड़ों के कैंसर, पेट के कैंसर और अग्नाशय के कैंसर में भी कभी-कभी उपयोग की जाती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, थकान, बुखार और रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दस्त और संक्रमण का खतरा हो सकता है। अगर दस्त गंभीर हों या बुखार आए तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल कैंसर रोग विशेषज्ञ की देखरेख में अस्पताल में ही दी जानी चाहिए। इसे घर पर स्वयं न लें। इलाज के दौरान नियमित रक्त परीक्षण करवाएं। गर्भवती महिलाओं और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। इलाज के दौरान शराब और अंगूर का सेवन न करें।
💊 iretrol-taj 100mg injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Metastatic colorectal cancer","description":"Used as first-line therapy in combination with other chemotherapy agents for metastatic colorectal cancer.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Metastatic colorectal cancer (second-line)","description":"Used as a single agent for patients whose disease has progressed after initial chemotherapy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Small cell lung cancer","description":"Sometimes used in combination with other agents for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Pancreatic cancer","description":"Used in some regimens for advanced pancreatic cancer.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Gastric cancer","description":"Investigated in combination regimens for advanced gastric cancer.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Esophageal cancer","description":"Occasionally used in combination chemotherapy for advanced esophageal cancer.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cervical cancer","description":"Sometimes used in recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Glioblastoma","description":"Investigated in some brain tumor protocols.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Metastatic colorectal cancer
Also treats: Small cell lung cancer, Pancreatic cancer, Gastric cancer
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Irinotecan (100mg) |
| Brand Name | iretrol-taj 100mg injection |
| Manufacturer | Taj Pharma India Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Topoisomerase Inhibitor |
| Route of Administration | Parenteral (intravenous infusion) |
| Storage | Store vials in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze. Once diluted, the infusion should be used within a specified time as per institutional guidelines. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the product packaging for the exact shelf life. Typically 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored properly. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine is a prodrug that is converted in the body to its active metabolite, SN-38. SN-38 binds to the topoisomerase I enzyme and stabilizes the enzyme-DNA complex, preventing the re-ligation of single-strand DNA breaks. This leads to DNA damage, inhibition of DNA replication, and ultimately cancer cell death. The medicine is cell cycle phase-specific, acting primarily in the S phase.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take iretrol-taj 100mg injection
Strength: 100 mg/5 mL concentrate for solution for infusion
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is individualized based on the type of cancer, combination with other drugs, and patient factors such as age, body surface area, liver function, and UGT1A1 genotype. Common regimens include 180 mg/m² or 125 mg/m² given intravenously over 90 minutes every 2 weeks, or 350 mg/m² every 3 weeks as a single agent. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially diarrhea and bone marrow suppression. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on individual tolerance and organ function. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is recommended for renal impairment, but caution is advised. Monitor kidney function closely. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Dose reduction is recommended in patients with liver impairment. For patients with bilirubin 1.0-2.0 mg/dL, a reduced dose is advised. For bilirubin >2.0 mg/dL, further reduction or avoidance may be needed. Consult a specialist. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum tolerated dose varies by regimen. As a single agent, up to 350 mg/m² every 3 weeks may be used. In combination, doses are lower. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your oncologist. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of iretrol-taj 100mg injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Ketoconazole | Major | |
| Rifampin | Major | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| Atazanavir | Major | |
| Live vaccines | Major | |
| Diuretics | Moderate | |
| Ondansetron | Minor | |
| Carbamazepine | Major | |
| Clarithromycin | Major | |
| Phenytoin | Major |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)
- UGT1A1 inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir)
- Live vaccines
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Warfarin
- Diuretics
- Other myelosuppressive agents
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may worsen liver toxicity and increase the risk of dehydration from diarrhea. It is advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment with this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Severe bone marrow suppression","Severe liver impairment","Known severe hypersensitivity to irinotecan or any component of the formulation","Pregnancy","Breastfeeding"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine should be administered only by a qualified oncologist.","Severe diarrhea can occur and may be life-threatening. Prompt treatment is essential.","Neutropenia is common; monitor blood counts closely.","Patients with UGT1A1*28 allele may be at increased risk of severe neutropenia and diarrhea.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during and after treatment.","Avoid grapefruit and St. John's Wort.","Report any signs of infection, bleeding, or allergic reaction immediately."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose.
💊 Overdose Management
There is no known antidote for overdose with this medicine. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Patients should be monitored closely for bone marrow suppression, severe diarrhea, and dehydration. Hospitalization may be required.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given as an intravenous infusion in a hospital setting. If a scheduled dose is missed, contact your oncology team immediately to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be given only under the supervision of a qualified oncologist in a hospital or cancer care center. Patients should not attempt to self-administer this medicine. Regular blood tests are essential to monitor blood cell counts, liver function, and kidney function. Patients should inform their doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products they are taking. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose. Men should also use contraception. Breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment. Patients should avoid close contact with people who have infections and should practice good hand hygiene. Adequate hydration and prompt treatment of diarrhea are important. Patients should not receive live vaccines during treatment.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medicine, especially diarrhea, dehydration, and bone marrow suppression. Close monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can cause fetal harm. Women should avoid becoming pregnant during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Men should avoid fathering a child during treatment and for at least 3 months after. Discuss contraception with your doctor.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine may increase the risk of bleeding and infection after surgery. Inform your surgeon that you are receiving this medicine. Your treatment may need to be temporarily interrupted around the time of surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine can increase the risk of bleeding and infection. Inform your dentist that you are receiving this medicine. Dental procedures may need to be postponed until your blood counts recover.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Exercise may need to be modified based on your energy levels and blood counts. Avoid strenuous activity if you have low blood counts or are feeling fatigued. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea, which may affect your ability to work. You may need to take time off during treatment cycles. Discuss your work schedule with your employer and healthcare team. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or fatigued.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Treatment may be stopped or adjusted based on your response, side effects, or disease progression. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term effects of this medicine may include persistent fatigue, increased risk of infections, and potential organ toxicity. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is essential. Some patients may experience delayed diarrhea. Long-term survivors should have regular follow-up with their oncologist.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Depending on the cancer type and stage, other chemotherapy drugs or combinations may be used.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor some colorectal cancers, targeted therapies such as cetuximab or bevacizumab may be options.
Evidence: Well-establishedIn selected patients with certain genetic markers, immunotherapy may be considered.
Evidence: Moderate💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should not be administered during treatment with this medicine due to the risk of infection. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but their effectiveness may be reduced. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store in refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze
✅ DO
Keep in original carton to protect from light
❌ DON'T
Do not use if the solution is discolored or contains particles
✅ DO
Follow institutional guidelines for diluted solution storage
❌ DON'T
Do not store diluted solution for extended periods
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is administered in a hospital setting, so travel should be planned around treatment cycles. If you need to travel, carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. Ensure that your destination has access to appropriate medical care. Store the medicine as directed by your healthcare provider. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medications.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: The effects of this medicine on cancer may take several weeks to become apparent. Your doctor will monitor your response with regular scans and tests.
A: This medicine can cause fatigue and dizziness. It is advisable to have someone else drive you to and from your appointments.
A: This medicine is given in a hospital setting. If you miss an appointment, contact your oncology team to reschedule as soon as possible.
A: No, this medicine can harm the fetus. It is not recommended during pregnancy. Use effective contraception during treatment.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for iretrol-taj 100mg injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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intensic 100mg injectionNeon Laboratories Ltd ₹485.40 87.7% CHEAPER
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irinotel 100mg injectionFresenius Kabi India Pvt Ltd ₹948.29 75.9% CHEAPER
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iritero 100 injectionHetero Drugs Ltd ₹1,197.00 69.6% CHEAPER
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imtus 100mg injectionEmcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹1,267.00 67.8% CHEAPER
-
iricip 100mg injectionCipla Ltd ₹1,500.00 61.9% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Irinotecan is a targeted therapy with no side effects.
Fact: Irinotecan is a chemotherapy agent and can cause significant side effects, including severe diarrhea and low blood counts. - Myth: Irinotecan can be taken as a pill at home.
Fact: Irinotecan is given as an intravenous infusion in a hospital or clinic setting. - Myth: Irinotecan is safe during pregnancy.
Fact: Irinotecan can harm the fetus and is not recommended during pregnancy.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Irinotecan injection
Brand Alternatives
- Irinotel 100mg injection