Irinotecan: A Chemotherapy Drug
Irinotecan is a chemotherapy drug used to treat colorectal cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called camptothecin derivatives, which work by interfering with the growth and repair of cancer cells.
Working:
Irinotecan blocks an enzyme called topoisomerase I, which is involved in the process of DNA replication. By inhibiting this enzyme, Irinotecan can damage the DNA of cancer cells, leading to their death.
Uses of Irinotecan
Irinotecan is primarily used to treat:
- Colorectal cancer: It can be used as a first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer or as a second-line treatment after other therapies have failed.
- Small cell lung cancer: Irinotecan can be used in combination with other drugs to treat small cell lung cancer.