What are the side effects of Irinotecan Hydrochloride Liposomal Injection (Onivyde)?

Irinotecan Hydrochloride Liposomal Injection (Onivyde) is an important drug for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. It is widely used in first-line treatment, especially when combined with oxaliplatin, fluorouracil, and leucovorin. However, although the use of drugs can improve patient prognosis, it also comes with a certain risk of side effects.

For patients with untreated metastatic pancreatic cancer, common side effects of irinotecan hydrochloride liposome injection include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness, which can seriously affect the patient's quality of life. In addition, neutropenia and anemia are also common side effects. The former may lead to an increased risk of infection, while the latter may cause fatigue and other health problems. Among these side effects, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting are the most common serious reactions and may lead to dehydration, which requires prompt rehydration and adjustment of electrolyte balance.

The side effect profile of irinotecan hydrochloride liposome injection is slightly different for those patients whose disease has progressed after receiving gemcitabine. In addition to the previously mentioned symptoms, stomatitis (inflammation of the oral mucosa) and fever are common complaints. Serious side effects include febrile neutropenia, fever, sepsis, pneumonia, septic shock, dehydration, renal failure, and thrombocytopenia, which require close monitoring and management during treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.

When using irinotecan hydrochloride liposome injection, special attention should be paid to the fact that this drug is contraindicated for patients who have had severe allergic reactions to irinotecan and for lactating women. The existence of these contraindications reminds clinicians to carefully evaluate the patient's past medical history and medication status when formulating treatment plans. The drug's combination of effectiveness and safety will help optimize treatment outcomes for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer.

Reference materials:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irinotecan