It's normal to feel overwhelmed and scared when you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer. At such a time, you may have many questions about the treatments your doctor prescribes, especially chemotherapy. Being clear about the treatment you are receiving will give you great strength to face this difficult journey. Today we are talking about one such important medicine, the Irinotecan Liposomal (brand name: Onivyde) vaccine.
What kind of medicine is this?
Simply put, Irinotecan Liposomal is a type of chemotherapy drug that kills cancer cells. In particular, it is most commonly used to treat pancreatic cancer . Your doctor may also recommend it for other types of cancer.
You might be a little confused by the word "liposomal." What it means is that the drug molecule is covered in a special coating, like a little fat bubble. This technology helps the drug reach the cancer cells more specifically and effectively.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment
To ensure that this treatment is safe and most effective for you, it is essential that your doctor knows your complete health history. If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell them before starting treatment.
| Your situation | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | This medicine may harm an unborn baby and may be passed to the baby through breast milk. |
| Any liver disease | Because the liver helps remove drugs from the body, it is important to know about its function. |
| Decreased number of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets in the blood | This medication can further reduce blood cell counts, so it is essential to be aware of the current situation. |
| An infectious condition (especially viral infections such as chickenpox and herpes) | This drug, which suppresses immunity, may exacerbate existing infections. |
| Lung or respiratory disease (such as asthma) | This is important for managing breathing difficulties that may be caused by the medication. |
| If you have recently received or are currently receiving radiation therapy | Combining radiation therapy and chemotherapy may increase side effects. |
| If you have an allergic reaction to other medicines, foods or substances | This helps assess the risk of developing an allergy to this drug as well. |
How is this medicine given?
This medicine is not something you can take at home. It is an infusion (a type of saline solution) given through a vein. It is given in a hospital or clinic by a doctor or nurse who has been specially trained for this purpose.
Important: This treatment is for you only. Do not share this medicine with anyone else for any reason.
What if I miss a medication appointment?
If you are unable to attend your scheduled appointment, don't worry. Call your doctor or the hospital where you are being treated as soon as possible to let them know and get advice on what to do next.
What if the dose increases?
As this is administered in a hospital setting by trained staff, the chances of receiving more than the prescribed dose are very low. However, if you suspect that this has happened in any way, inform the medical staff immediately. Alternatively, inform the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
Things to consider during treatment
Your body becomes more sensitive during chemotherapy, so it's important to be especially careful about these things.
Pregnancy and childbirth
- For women: Do not become pregnant for any reason while taking this medicine and for 1 month after your last dose. This medicine can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Therefore, talk to your doctor about a reliable method of birth control.
- For men: If you are receiving this treatment, it is imperative that your partner use condoms to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.
- Breastfeeding: Avoid breastfeeding your baby during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose.
Protection from infections
Chemotherapy can reduce the number of white blood cells in your body that fight disease. This means you may get infections more easily.
- If you develop symptoms such as fever, cold, sore throat, or cough , do not self-medicate and inform your doctor immediately.
- Minimize contact with crowded places and sick people as much as possible.
- Wash your hands often with soap.
Risk of bleeding
This medicine may also reduce the number of platelets, which help blood clot.
- Be very careful when brushing and flossing your teeth. Your gums may bleed.
- If you need to have any emergency dental treatment, tell the dentist that you are undergoing chemotherapy.
- Tell your doctor if you notice any unusual bruising, red spots under the skin, or unusual bleeding from the nose or elsewhere.
Diarrhea and dehydration
Severe diarrhea and vomiting are common side effects of this treatment. This can cause dehydration, which can be dangerous, so seek medical advice immediately if you experience severe diarrhea or vomiting.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any chemotherapy drug, this one can cause side effects. But not everyone gets them all. Some are minor, while others require immediate medical attention.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergy symptoms | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, sore throat, cough, urinary tract infection. |
| Bleeding symptoms | Black, tarry stools, red/dark brown urine, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, red spots on the skin, unusual bruising. |
| Other serious symptoms | Severe diarrhea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, extreme fatigue, fainting. |
| Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (but should be reported if they persist) | |
| Hair loss | Hair will grow back after treatment is complete. |
| Mouth sores | It can be controlled by taking care of oral hygiene and using the ointments prescribed by the doctor. |
| Anorexia | Try to eat small, frequent meals. |
Take-Home Message
- Irinotecan Liposomal (Onivyde) is a chemotherapy injection for pancreatic cancer. It is given through a vein in a hospital.
- Tell your doctor about all medical conditions you have and all medications you are taking before starting treatment.
- Avoid pregnancy completely during and for the prescribed period of treatment. Use reliable birth control.
- Be aware of warning signs such as fever, bleeding, and severe diarrhea. If you notice any of these, seek medical advice immediately.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any concerns or fears you may have. You are not alone in this battle.
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