Ertikan 40mg 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, with or without chills
- Severe diarrhoea (more than 6 stools per day) or diarrhoea with blood
- Signs of dehydration: dizziness, decreased urination, dry mouth
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling in legs
- Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine
- Severe abdominal pain
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is irinores 40mg injection used for?
This medicine contains Irinotecan 40 mg and is a chemotherapy injection used mainly for advanced colorectal cancer. It works by blocking an enzyme that cancer cells need to divide. It is given intravenously by a healthcare professional and can cause side effects like diarrhoea, low blood counts, and hair loss.
- Generic Name: Irinotecan (40mg)
- Manufacturer: Resonance Laboratories Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 irinores 40mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा इरिनोटेकान 40 मिलीग्राम इंजेक्शन के रूप में एक कीमोथेरेपी दवा है। इसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से उन्नत कोलोरेक्टल कैंसर (आंत के कैंसर) के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कैंसर कोशिकाओं को बढ़ने और विभाजित होने से रोकती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है। इसे घर पर स्वयं न लें। यह दवा अन्य कैंसर जैसे अग्नाशय और फेफड़ों के कैंसर में भी कभी-कभी उपयोग की जाती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, भूख न लगना, मुँह के छाले, बालों का झड़ना, थकान और रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गंभीर दस्त, बुखार के साथ कम श्वेत रक्त कोशिकाएं, रक्तस्राव, और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हैं। कोई भी दुष्प्रभाव होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य स्वास्थ्य पेशेवर द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इसे स्वयं न लें। उपचार के दौरान गर्भनिरोधक उपाय करें। स्तनपान न कराएं। पर्याप्त पानी पिएं। बुखार, ठंड लगना, गंभीर दस्त, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
💊 irinores 40mg injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Metastatic colorectal cancer","description":"Used as part of combination chemotherapy or as a single agent for advanced colorectal cancer after other treatments have failed.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Metastatic pancreatic cancer","description":"Sometimes used in combination regimens for advanced pancreatic cancer, though this is not a primary approved use in all regions.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Small cell lung cancer","description":"May be used in some chemotherapy regimens for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Gastric cancer","description":"Occasionally used in combination therapy for advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Ewing sarcoma","description":"Sometimes used in combination regimens for Ewing sarcoma, a rare bone cancer.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Brain tumors","description":"Investigated in some high-grade gliomas, but not standard of care.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Metastatic colorectal cancer
Also treats: Metastatic pancreatic cancer, Small cell lung cancer, Gastric cancer
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Irinotecan (40mg) |
| Brand Name | irinores 40mg injection |
| Manufacturer | Resonance Laboratories Pvt 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 for infusion, the solution should be used within a specified time as per institutional guidelines. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of the unopened vial is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the packaging. |
| 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
Irinotecan is a prodrug that is converted in the body to its active metabolite, SN-38. SN-38 binds to and inhibits topoisomerase I, an enzyme that relieves torsional stress in DNA during replication. By blocking topoisomerase I, SN-38 causes single-strand DNA breaks to accumulate, which leads to arrest of DNA replication and cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take irinores 40mg injection
Strength: Injection: 40 mg per vial (as irinotecan hydrochloride).
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is highly individualized and depends on the type of cancer, the treatment regimen, and the patient's overall health. It is usually given as an intravenous infusion over 90 minutes. Common regimens include 350 mg/m² every 3 weeks as a single agent, or 180 mg/m² every 2 weeks in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and blood counts. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients (65 years and older) may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially diarrhoea and bone marrow suppression. Doses may need to be reduced or given less frequently. Close monitoring is required. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is recommended for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. However, caution is advised in severe renal impairment, and close monitoring is necessary. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Patients with liver impairment may require dose reduction. For patients with bilirubin levels above the normal range, a reduced dose is often recommended. Consult the prescribing information for specific guidelines. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended dose varies by regimen. As a single agent, the maximum is 350 mg/m² every 3 weeks. In combination regimens, the dose is lower. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of irinores 40mg 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 | |
| Phenytoin | Major | |
| Carbamazepine | Major | |
| Clarithromycin | Major | |
| Gemfibrozil | Major | |
| Live vaccines | Major | |
| Diuretics | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin)
- UGT1A1 inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir, gemfibrozil)
- Live vaccines
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Warfarin
- Diuretics
- Other myelosuppressive agents
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may worsen liver toxicity and increase the risk of dehydration from diarrhoea. It is best to avoid alcohol while receiving 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 (unless potential benefit justifies risk)","Breastfeeding"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine should be administered only under the supervision of a qualified oncologist.","Severe diarrhoea can occur and may be life-threatening. Early recognition and treatment are essential.","Febrile neutropenia is a serious complication. Monitor for fever and signs of infection.","Patients with UGT1A1*28 polymorphism may be at higher risk of severe toxicity.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during and after treatment.","Caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment.","Elderly patients may be more susceptible to toxicity."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether irinotecan is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for a period after the last dose, as advised by the doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
There is no known antidote for irinotecan overdose. Management should be symptomatic and supportive, including monitoring of blood counts, liver and kidney function, and treatment of diarrhoea and dehydration. In case of overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting. If you miss an appointment for your dose, contact your doctor or treatment center as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer a missed dose.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be given only by a qualified healthcare professional in a properly equipped facility. Do not attempt to administer it yourself. Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, bone marrow problems, or a history of severe diarrhoea. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose, as advised by your doctor. Avoid live vaccines while on this medicine. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if you have diarrhoea. Do not breastfeed while receiving this medicine. Keep all appointments for blood tests and follow-up visits. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience fever, chills, severe diarrhoea, unusual bleeding, or difficulty breathing.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Patients over 65 years of age may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially diarrhoea and bone marrow suppression. Close monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can cause harm to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose. Men should also use contraception. Discuss pregnancy planning with your doctor before starting treatment.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently had surgery, inform your doctor. This medicine may affect wound healing and increase the risk of bleeding or infection. Your doctor will decide the appropriate timing to start treatment after surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are receiving this medicine before any dental procedure. You may be at increased risk of bleeding or infection. Your dentist may recommend postponing non-urgent procedures until your blood counts recover.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Mild to moderate exercise may help reduce fatigue, but avoid strenuous activities if you feel weak or dizzy. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that can affect your ability to work. Discuss with your employer about flexible hours or remote work options. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel unwell.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Treatment may be stopped or adjusted based on your response, side effects, or other medical conditions. Your doctor will decide the appropriate duration of therapy.
📅 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 effects such as secondary cancers, though this is rare. Discuss any long-term concerns with your oncologist.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Depending on your cancer type and prior treatments, other chemotherapy drugs or combinations may be options.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor some colorectal cancers, targeted therapies such as cetuximab or bevacizumab may be used.
Evidence: Well-establishedIn selected patients with certain genetic markers, immunotherapy may be an option.
Evidence: Limited💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine due to the risk of serious infections. 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 longer than recommended
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is given in a healthcare setting, so travel is not applicable for administration. However, if you are traveling between treatment cycles, carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. Keep the medicine in its original packaging and store it in a cool, dry place. Check with your doctor about any travel restrictions and ensure you have access to medical care at your destination.
💰 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 cells begin soon after infusion, but measurable tumor shrinkage may take several weeks to months. Your doctor will monitor your response with regular scans and tests.
A: This medicine can cause fatigue, dizziness, or blurred vision. It is best to arrange for someone else to drive you to and from your treatment sessions and avoid driving if you feel unwell.
A: No, this medicine can harm the developing baby. It is not recommended during pregnancy. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose.
A: Start taking loperamide as directed by your doctor and drink plenty of fluids. If diarrhoea is severe or persists beyond 24 hours, contact your doctor immediately.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for irinores 40mg injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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ertican 40mg injectionCipla Ltd ₹76.04 95.9% CHEAPER
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imtus 40mg injectionEmcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹301.88 83.7% CHEAPER
-
intensic 40mg injectionNeon Laboratories Ltd ₹414.38 77.6% CHEAPER
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irinotel 40mg injectionFresenius Kabi India Pvt Ltd ₹495.16 73.2% CHEAPER
-
iritero 40mg injectionHetero Drugs Ltd ₹617.00 66.6% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be taken at home like a pill.
Fact: This medicine is an injection that must be given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting. - Myth: This medicine cures all types of cancer.
Fact: This medicine is approved for specific cancers, mainly colorectal cancer, and is used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. - Myth: Side effects mean the medicine is not working.
Fact: Side effects are common with chemotherapy and do not indicate whether the medicine is working. Your doctor will monitor your response with tests.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Irinotecan generic injection
Brand Alternatives
- Ertikan
- Irinotel
- Campto