Topotecan (Hycamtin)

Topotecan is one of the newer chemotherapy drugs, and has been around, and in use for some years. It is a synthetic product, very similar to a natural compound, Camptothecin, which was driven from a Chinese tree. " Camptotheca acuminata".

Topotecan is normally given by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes, daily for five consecutive days. There is an oral product under investigation.    In certain conditions, specially in treatment of Leukemias, it issued as a continuous infusion for five days.  The treatment cycle is repeated every 3-4 weeks.  This drug is effective in treatment of the following cancers:

• Ovarian

• Small Cell Lung Cancer

• Leukemias ( AML, CML)

• Non Hodgkin's Lymphomas

• Myelodysplastic Syndrome

• Selected Pediatric Cancer

Topotecan is also used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs such as: Taxol,  Adriamycin, Cytoxan and  Cisplatinum. The type and extent of a cancer will determine the method and schedule of administration of this drug. This decision is made by the medical oncologist. Topotecan is normally given every three weeks.

Side effects:

The degree and severity of the side effects depend on the amount and schedule of the administration of Topotecan. Following are some of the most common and important ill effects:

• Low white blood counts

• Low platelet count

• Fatigue

• Anemia

• Hair loss

• Nausea, Vomiting

• Soreness of the mouth, difficulty swallowing

• Diarrhea

It is imperative that patients relay any side effects or problems to their medical oncologists. Topotecan is metabolized in the liver and excreted into bile.  Dose of Topotecan should be reduced in patients with Kidney or Liver dysfunction.