Iretrol-Taj 20mg 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, chills, or sore throat
- Severe diarrhoea (more than 6 stools per day) or diarrhoea with blood
- Vomiting that prevents keeping fluids down
- Signs of dehydration: dizziness, reduced urine output, dry mouth
- Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or palpitations
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Severe abdominal pain or swelling
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is irnozen 20mg injection used for?
This medicine is a chemotherapy injection containing irinotecan, used mainly for metastatic colorectal cancer. It works by blocking an enzyme called topoisomerase I, which cancer cells need to divide. It is given intravenously by a healthcare professional and can cause side effects like diarrhoea, low blood counts, and fatigue.
- Generic Name: Irinotecan (20mg)
- Manufacturer: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 irnozen 20mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा इरिनोटेकन नामक सक्रिय तत्व वाला एक कीमोथेरेपी इंजेक्शन है, जिसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से मेटास्टेटिक कोलोरेक्टल कैंसर (आंत के कैंसर) के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कैंसर कोशिकाओं को बढ़ने और विभाजित होने से रोकने में मदद करता है। यह दवा केवल अस्पताल या कैंसर देखभाल केंद्र में एक स्वास्थ्य पेशेवर द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है। यह पेट के कैंसर, फेफड़ों के कैंसर और अन्य ठोस ट्यूमर के इलाज में भी कभी-कभी उपयोग की जाती है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, थकान, बालों का झड़ना, और रक्त कोशिकाओं की संख्या में कमी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में बुखार के साथ न्यूट्रोपेनिया, गंभीर दस्त, संक्रमण, और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएं शामिल हो सकती हैं। किसी भी असामान्य लक्षण को तुरंत अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य स्वास्थ्य पेशेवर द्वारा अस्पताल में दी जानी चाहिए। इसे स्वयं न लें। अपने डॉक्टर को सभी दवाओं, हर्बल सप्लीमेंट्स और विटामिन के बारे में बताएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। उपचार के दौरान प्रभावी गर्भनिरोधक का उपयोग करें। संक्रमण से बचने के लिए हाथ धोएं और भीड़-भाड़ वाली जगहों से बचें। पर्याप्त पानी पिएं। नियमित रक्त परीक्षण कराएं।
💊 irnozen 20mg injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Metastatic colorectal cancer","description":"This medicine is used as first-line or subsequent-line treatment for advanced colorectal cancer, often in combination with fluorouracil and leucovorin (FOLFIRI regimen) or as a single agent.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Metastatic pancreatic cancer","description":"Sometimes used in combination regimens for advanced pancreatic cancer after other treatments have failed.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Small cell lung cancer","description":"Used in some chemotherapy combinations for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Gastric cancer","description":"Investigated and sometimes used in combination therapy for advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Glioblastoma","description":"Used in some regimens for recurrent glioblastoma, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Ovarian cancer","description":"Occasionally used off-label in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cervical cancer","description":"Sometimes used off-label in advanced cervical cancer after standard treatments fail.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Esophageal cancer","description":"Rarely used off-label in advanced esophageal cancer.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Metastatic colorectal cancer
Also treats: Metastatic pancreatic cancer, Small cell lung cancer, Gastric cancer, Glioblastoma
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Irinotecan (20mg) |
| Brand Name | irnozen 20mg injection |
| Manufacturer | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Topoisomerase Inhibitor |
| Route of Administration | Parenteral (intravenous infusion) |
| Storage | Store this medicine in its original packaging, refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Once diluted for infusion, use as per the manufacturer's instructions and institutional guidelines. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the product label for the exact shelf life. Typically, the unopened vial has a shelf life of 24 to 36 months 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 inhibits the enzyme topoisomerase I, which is responsible for relieving torsional stress in DNA during replication. By binding to the topoisomerase I-DNA complex, SN-38 stabilises the cleavable complex and prevents re-ligation of the DNA strand. This leads to irreversible DNA damage, cell cycle arrest in the S phase, and apoptosis of cancer cells. The cytotoxic effect is most pronounced in rapidly dividing cells, which is why cancer cells are particularly sensitive to this medicine.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take irnozen 20mg injection
Strength: Injection: 20 mg per vial (as irinotecan).
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is highly individualized and depends on the specific cancer type, stage, combination regimen, and patient factors such as age, performance status, and organ function. It is given as an intravenous infusion, usually over 90 minutes. Common regimens include 180 mg/m² every two weeks or 350 mg/m² every three weeks when used as a single agent. When combined with other chemotherapy drugs, the dose is often lower. 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 (above 65 years) may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression and diarrhoea. Close monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary. Individualized dosing by a qualified clinician is essential. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for renal impairment. However, caution is advised, and close monitoring of renal function and hydration status is recommended. Consult the prescribing oncologist for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. For patients with bilirubin levels above the upper limit of normal, a reduced dose is often recommended. Individualized dosing by a qualified clinician is essential. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum tolerated dose varies by regimen. As a single agent, doses up to 350 mg/m² every three weeks have been used. Doses above this are not recommended without clinical supervision. Always follow the prescribed regimen. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of irnozen 20mg 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 | |
| Rifampicin | Major | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| Atazanavir | Major | |
| Live vaccines | Major | |
| Diuretics | Moderate | |
| Other chemotherapy agents | Moderate | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor | |
| St. John's Wort | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, 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 and gastrointestinal side effects. 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","Active serious infection","Severe diarrhoea","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 by healthcare professionals experienced in cancer chemotherapy.","Severe diarrhoea can occur and may be life-threatening. Early diarrhoea (within 24 hours) and late diarrhoea (after 24 hours) require different management.","Febrile neutropenia is a serious risk. Monitor blood counts closely and treat infections promptly.","Patients with UGT1A1*28 polymorphism may have reduced glucuronidation of SN-38 and increased risk of toxicity.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after treatment.","Caution in patients with hepatic impairment; dose reduction may be necessary.","Caution in elderly patients who may be more sensitive to side effects."]
🤱 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 a period after treatment as advised by the doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
There is no specific antidote for overdose with this medicine. Management should be symptomatic and supportive, including close monitoring of blood counts, hydration, and electrolyte balance. In case of suspected overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a controlled setting. If you miss an appointment for your infusion, contact your oncology team as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer or double the dose.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be given only by a qualified healthcare professional in a hospital or cancer care setting. Do not attempt to self-administer this injection. Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, because many can interact with this medicine. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as this medicine can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after treatment as advised by your doctor. Avoid close contact with people who have infections, and practice good hand hygiene. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if you have diarrhoea or vomiting. Do not receive any live vaccines while on this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor your blood counts, liver function, and kidney function. Report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, severe diarrhoea, or difficulty breathing immediately.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medicine, particularly bone marrow suppression and diarrhoea. Close monitoring and dose adjustments are often necessary. Comprehensive geriatric assessment may help guide treatment decisions.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Men should use condoms during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose. Discuss pregnancy planning with your doctor before starting treatment.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently undergone surgery, inform your surgeon and oncologist. This medicine may affect wound healing and increase the risk of bleeding or infection. Treatment may need to be delayed until you have recovered from surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are receiving this medicine. It can increase the risk of bleeding and infection. Dental procedures may need to be postponed until your blood counts have recovered. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or other precautions.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program. Light activities like walking may be beneficial, but avoid strenuous exercise if you have fatigue, low blood counts, or other side effects. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that can affect your ability to work. You may need to take time off during treatment cycles. Discuss your work schedule with your employer and doctor to make necessary adjustments. Driving may be unsafe if you experience dizziness or fatigue.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Treatment may be stopped or adjusted if you experience severe side effects, your blood counts do not recover, or the cancer progresses. Your doctor will decide the appropriate time to discontinue based on your overall condition.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may lead to persistent fatigue, increased risk of infections, and potential organ toxicity. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver function, 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 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 used.
Evidence: Well-establishedIn selected patients with certain genetic markers, immunotherapy may be an option.
Evidence: Moderate💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should be avoided 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 refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze
✅ DO
Keep in original packaging
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Protect from light
❌ DON'T
Do not store at room temperature for prolonged periods
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is administered in a hospital setting, so travel is not applicable for self-administration. If you need to travel for treatment, carry your prescription and medical records. Store the medicine as directed by your healthcare provider. When traveling, keep the medicine in its original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription to avoid customs issues. Plan your travel around your treatment schedule to avoid missing doses.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working soon after infusion, but its effects on the cancer may take weeks to become apparent. Your doctor will monitor your response with regular scans and tests.
A: No, this medicine must be given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or cancer care setting.
A: Contact your doctor immediately. They may prescribe anti-diarrhoeal medication and advise on hydration. Severe diarrhoea can be dangerous.
A: No, this medicine can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after treatment as advised by your doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for irnozen 20mg injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Irinotecan injection can be self-administered at home.
Fact: This medicine must be given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or cancer care setting. - Myth: Irinotecan injection is a painkiller.
Fact: This medicine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat cancer, not a painkiller. - Myth: All patients experience severe side effects.
Fact: Side effects vary; many are manageable with proper monitoring and supportive care.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Irinotecan injection
Brand Alternatives
- Iretrol-Taj 20mg injection