How is irinotecan given?
Irinotecan is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 90 minutes to complete. The irinotecan injection is usually followed by infusions with other cancer medications. These combination chemotherapy treatments are usually given at weekly intervals for several weeks. Before starting your irinotecan injection, you may be given medications to help prevent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other side effects. You may also need to use some of these medications for at least a day after your irinotecan injection.
