Onivyde (Irinotecan Hydrochloride Trihydrate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Onivyde Used For?
Onivyde is a specialized formulation of irinotecan designed to treat pancreatic cancer. It is delivered in tiny lipid particles called nanoliposomes, which help the drug accumulate in tumors and release slowly over time.
Primary Uses
Onivyde is used to treat pancreatic cancer, particularly in patients who have not been previously treated or those who have been treated with gemcitabine.
How It Works
Onivyde works by blocking the enzyme topoisomerase I, which is essential for DNA replication in cancer cells. This action prevents the cancer cells from multiplying and leads to their death.
Good to know: Onivyde is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Onivyde
Onivyde is administered only by trained healthcare professionals in a hospital setting. The dosage and treatment schedule will be determined by your doctor based on your specific condition.
Dosage Instructions
Your doctor will decide the appropriate dose of Onivyde based on your body weight, overall health, and response to treatment. Treatment may involve several courses, typically administered every two weeks.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance on how to proceed.
Important: Never double up on doses of Onivyde. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Increased risk of severe infections
- Anemia
- Diarrhea (loose or watery and frequent stools)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Swelling under the skin (angioedema)
- Symptoms of anaphylactic reactions (shortness of breath, flushing, headache, tightness in the chest)
- Fever, chills, and signs of infection
- Persistent severe diarrhea
Important Warnings
Before starting Onivyde, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and contraindications associated with its use.
Who Should Not Take Onivyde
Do not use Onivyde if you are allergic to irinotecan or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have liver, kidney, lung, or heart disease, have undergone radiation therapy, have difficulty urinating, or have chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Onivyde is not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, discuss the risks with your doctor. Do not breastfeed while taking Onivyde, as it may pass into breast milk.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Onivyde and affect its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit products while taking Onivyde, as they may increase its effects.
- Grapefruit juice
- Ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole (fungal treatments)
- Clarithromycin (antibiotic)
- Indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, atazanavir (HIV medications)
- Telaprevir (hepatitis C treatment)
- Nefazodone (depression treatment)
- Gemfibrozil (high fat levels treatment)
- Phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine (seizure medications)
- Rifampicin, rifabutin (tuberculosis treatments)
- St. John's wort (depression treatment)
Alcohol & Driving
Exercise caution regarding alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Onivyde.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while taking Onivyde.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Onivyde may moderately affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Use caution until you know how it affects you.
Storage
Store Onivyde in a refrigerator at 2-8°C, protected from light. Do not freeze and keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include severe side effects listed above.
Frequently Asked Questions
The effects of Onivyde may vary, and it is typically administered in cycles every two weeks, allowing your doctor to monitor your response.
Onivyde is administered as an infusion in a hospital setting, so food intake is not directly related to its administration.
No, Onivyde is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Onivyde, as they will provide guidance based on your treatment plan.
It's best to consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Onivyde.
Weight changes are not specifically mentioned, but discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Elderly patients should discuss their health status with their doctor to ensure Onivyde is safe for them.
Contact your healthcare provider immediately for instructions if you miss a dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.