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camptosar

Pharmaranks rates Camptosar 3.2/5 for recall safety — an independent score from its FDA recall history and its manufacturer's record. Camptosar (Irinotecan Hydrochloride) is a topoisomerase inhibitor used to treat Breast Neoplasms, Non-Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma, Colonic Neoplasms, Leukemia.

Irinotecan Hydrochloride · by Pfizer

Available as a generic: Irinotecan Hydrochloride

64/100Limited · 1 source

Based on 1 source · Recall-safety score from FDA recall history — this product's own recalls and its manufacturer's record. Not an efficacy or quality rating. methodology →

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 22, 2026·How we rate
Verified againstopenFDANIH DailyMedRxClass

Key facts

Active ingredient
Irinotecan Hydrochloride
Form
Injectable
Strength
Irinotecan Hydrochloride 100MG/5ML (20MG/ML) · Irinotecan Hydrochloride 300MG/15ML (20MG/ML) · Irinotecan Hydrochloride 40MG/2ML (20MG/ML)
Type
Prescription (Rx)
Brand or generic
Brand-name
Manufacturer
Pfizer
FDA application
NDA020571

What is Camptosar?

From the FDA label:Injection (irinotecan hydrochloride injection) is an antineoplastic agent of the topoisomerase I inhibitor class. CAMPTOSAR is supplied as a sterile, pale yellow, clear, aqueous solution. Each milliliter of solution contains 20 mg of irinotecan hydrochloride (on the basis of the trihydrate salt), 45 mg of sorbitol, NF, and 0.9 mg of lactic acid, USP. The pH of the solution has been adjusted to 3.5 (range, 3.0 to 3.8) with sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid. CAMPTOSAR is intended for dilution with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP (D5W), or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, prior to intravenous infusion. The preferred diluent is 5% Dextrose Injection, USP. Irinotecan hydrochloride is a semisynthetic derivative of camptothecin, an alkaloid extract from plants such as Camptotheca acuminata or is chemically synthesized . The chemical name is ( S ) -4,11-diethyl-3,4,12,14-tetrahydro-4-hydroxy-3,14-dioxo1 H -pyrano[3',4':6,7]-indolizino[1,2-b]quinolin-9-yl-[1,4'bipiperidine]-1'-carboxylate, monohydrochloride, trihydrate. Its empirical formula is C 33 H 38 N 4 O 6 ∙HCl∙3H 2 O and molecular weight is 677.19. It is slightly soluble in water and organic solvents. Its structural formula is as follows: Chemical Structure

How to use

Colorectal cancer combination regimen 1: CAMPTOSAR 125 mg/m 2 intravenous infusion over 90 minutes on days 1, 8,15, 22 with LV 20 mg/m 2 intravenous bolus infusion on days 1, 8, 15, 22 followed by 5-FU intravenous bolus infusion on days 1, 8, 15, 22 every 6 weeks. ( 2.1 ) • Colorectal cancer combination regimen 2: CAMPTOSAR 180 mg/m 2 intravenous infusion over 90 minutes on days 1, 15, 29 with LV 200 mg/m 2 intravenous infusion over 2 hours on days 1, 2, 15, 16, 29, 30 followed by 5-FU 400 mg/m 2 intravenous bolus infusion on days 1, 2, 15, 16, 29, 30 and 5-FU 600 mg/m 2 intravenous infusion over 22 hours on days 1, 2, 15, 16, 29, 30. ( 2.1 ) • Colorectal cancer single agent regimen 1: CAMPTOSAR 125 mg/m 2 intravenous infusion over 90 minutes on days 1, 8, 15, 22 then 2-week rest. ( 2.2 ) • Colorectal cancer single agent regimen 2: CAMPTOSAR 350 mg/m 2 intravenous infusion over 90 minutes on day 1 every 3 weeks. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Colorectal Cancer Combination Regimens 1 and 2 Administer CAMPTOSAR as a 90-minute intravenous infusion followed by LV and 5-FU. The currently recommended regimens are shown in Table 1. A reduction in the starting dose by one dose level of CAMPTOSAR may be considered for patients with any of the following conditions: prior pelvic/abdominal radiotherapy, performance status of 2, or increased bilirubin levels. Dosing for patients with bilirubin >2 mg/dL…

Side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥30%) observed in combination therapy clinical studies are: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, anorexia, mucositis, neutropenia, leukopenia (including lymphocytopenia), anemia, thrombocytopenia, asthenia, pain, fever, infection, abnormal bilirubin, alopecia. ( 6.1 ) Common adverse reactions (≥30%) observed in single agent therapy clinical studies are: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, anorexia, neutropenia, leukopenia (including lymphocytopenia), anemia, asthenia, fever, body weight decreasing, alopecia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc, at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Studies Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Common adverse reactions (≥30%) observed in combination therapy clinical studies are: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, anorexia, mucositis, neutropenia, leukopenia (including lymphocytopenia), anemia, thrombocytopenia, asthenia, pain, fever, infection, abnormal bilirubin, and alopecia. Common adverse reactions (≥30%) observed in single agent…

FDA Boxed Warning (the FDA’s most serious warning)

Boxed (black-box) warning — from the FDA label

DIARRHEA and MYELOSUPPRESSION • Early and late forms of diarrhea can occur. Early diarrhea may be accompanied by cholinergic symptoms which may be prevented or ameliorated by atropine. Late diarrhea can be life threatening and should be treated promptly with loperamide. Monitor patients with diarrhea and give fluid and electrolytes as needed. Institute antibiotic therapy if patients develop ileus, fever, or severe neutropenia. Interrupt CAMPTOSAR and reduce subsequent doses if severe diarrhea occurs [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . • Severe myelosuppression may occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . WARNING: DIARRHEA and MYELOSUPPRESSION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning . • Early and late forms of diarrhea can occur. Early diarrhea may be accompanied by cholinergic symptoms which may be prevented or ameliorated by atropine. Late diarrhea can be life threatening and should be treated promptly with loperamide. Monitor patients with diarrhea and give fluid and electrolytes as needed. Institute antibiotic therapy if patients develop ileus, fever, or severe neutropenia. Interrupt CAMPTOSAR and reduce subsequent doses if severe diarrhea occurs. ( 2.2 , 5.1 ) • Severe myelosuppression may occur. ( 5.2 )

Warnings

Important safety information

Diarrhea and Cholinergic Reactions : Early diarrhea (occurring during or shortly after infusion of CAMPTOSAR) is usually transient and may be accompanied by cholinergic symptoms. Consider prophylactic or therapeutic administration of 0.25 mg to 1 mg of intravenous or subcutaneous atropine (unless clinically contraindicated). Late diarrhea (generally occurring more than 24 hours after administration of CAMPTOSAR) can occur. Monitor and replace fluid and electrolytes. Treat with loperamide. Use antibiotic support for ileus and fever. Interrupt CAMPTOSAR and reduce subsequent doses if severe diarrhea occurs. ( 5.1 ) • Myelosuppression : Manage promptly with antibiotic support. Interrupt CAMPTOSAR and reduce subsequent doses if necessary. ( 5.2 ) • Increased Risk of Neutropenia in Patients With Reduced UGT1A1 Activity: Individuals with UGT1A1*28/*28, or *6/*6, or *6/*28 genotypes are at increased risk for severe neutropenia during CAMPTOSAR treatment. ( 5.3 ) • Hypersensitivity: Hypersensitivity reactions including severe anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reactions have been observed. Discontinue CAMPTOSAR if this occurs. ( 5.4 ) • Renal Impairment/Renal Failure: Rare cases of renal impairment and acute renal failure have been identified, usually in patients who became volume depleted from severe vomiting and/or diarrhea. ( 5.5 ) • Pulmonary Toxicity: Interstitial Pulmonary Disease (IPD)-like events, including fatalities, have occurred. Interrupt for new or progressive dyspnea, cough, and fever pending evaluation. If IPD diagnosed, discontinue and institute appropriate treatment as needed. ( 5.6 ) • Toxicity of the 5 Day Regimen: CAMPTOSAR should not be used in combination with a regimen of 5-FU/LV administered for 4–5 consecutive days every 4 weeks outside of a clinical study. ( 5.7 ) • Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: CAMPTOSAR can cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and to use effective contraception. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use condoms. ( 5.9 , 8.1 , 8.3 ) • Patients With Hepatic Impairment: In clinical trials, CAMPTOSAR has not been administered to patients with serum bilirubin > 2.0 mg/dL, or transaminases > 3 times ULN if no liver metastases, or transaminases > 5 times ULN if liver metastases. With the weekly dosage schedule, patients with total bilirubin levels 1.0–2.0 mg/dL had greater likelihood of grade 3–4 neutropenia. ( 5.10 ) 5.1 Diarrhea and Cholinergic Reactions Early diarrhea (occurring during or shortly after infusion of CAMPTOSAR) is usually transient and infrequently severe. It may be accompanied by cholinergic symptoms of rhinitis, increased salivation, miosis, lacrimation, diaphoresis, flushing, and intestinal hyperperistalsis that can cause abdominal cramping. Bradycardia may also occur. Early diarrhea and other cholinergic symptoms may be prevented or treated. Consider prophylactic or therapeutic administration of 0.25 mg to 1 mg of intravenous or subcutaneous atropine (unless clinically contraindicated). These symptoms are expected to occur more frequently with higher irinotecan doses. Late diarrhea (generally occurring more than 24 hours after administration of CAMPTOSAR) can be life threatening since it may be prolonged and may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or sepsis. Grade 3–4 late diarrhea occurred in 23–31% of patients receiving weekly dosing. In the clinical studies, the median time to the onset of late diarrhea was 5 days with 3-week dosing and 11 days with weekly dosing. Late diarrhea can be complicated by colitis, ulceration, bleeding, ileus, obstruction, and infection. Cases of megacolon and intestinal perforation have been reported. Patients should have loperamide readily available to begin treatment for late diarrhea. Begin loperamide at the first episode of poorly formed or loose stools or the earliest onset of bowel movements more frequent than normal. One dosage regimen for loperamide is 4 mg at the first onset of late diarrhea and then 2 mg every 2 hours until the patient is diarrhea-free for at least 12 hours. Loperamide is not recommended to be used for more than 48 consecutive hours at these doses, because of the risk of paralytic ileus. During the night, the patient may take 4 mg of loperamide every 4 hours. Monitor and replace fluid and electrolytes. Use antibiotic support for ileus, fever, or severe neutropenia. Subsequent weekly chemotherapy treatments should be delayed in patients until return of pretreatment bowel function for at least 24 hours without anti-diarrhea medication. Patients must not be treated with CAMPTOSAR until resolution of the bowel obstruction. If grade 2, 3, or 4 late diarrhea recurs, subsequent doses of CAMPTOSAR should be decreased [see Dosage and Administration (2) ] . Avoid diuretics or laxatives in patients with diarrhea. 5.2 Myelosuppression CAMPTOSAR can cause severe myelosuppression. Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections have occurred in patients treated with CAMPTOSAR. Deaths due to sepsis following severe neutropenia have been reported in patients treated with CAMPTOSAR. In the clinical studies evaluating the weekly dosage schedule, neutropenic fever (concurrent NCI grade 4 neutropenia and fever of grade 2 or greater) occurred in 3% of the patients; 6% of patients received G-CSF for the treatment of neutropenia. Manage febrile neutropenia promptly with antibiotic support [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Hold CAMPTOSAR if neutropenic fever occurs or if the absolute neutrophil count drops <1000/mm 3 . After recovery to an absolute neutrophil count ≥1000/mm 3 , subsequent doses of CAMPTOSAR should be reduced [see Dosage and Administration (2) ] . When evaluated in the trials of weekly administration, the frequency of grade 3 and 4 neutropenia was higher in patients who received previous pelvic/abdominal irradiation than in those who had not received such irradiation (48% [13/27] versus 24% [67/277]; p=0.04). Patients who have previously received pelvic/abdominal irradiation are at increased risk of severe myelosuppression following the administration of CAMPTOSAR. Based on sparse available data, the concurrent administration of CAMPTOSAR with irradiation is not recommended. Patients with baseline serum total bilirubin levels of 1.0 mg/dL or more also had a greater likelihood of experiencing first-cycle grade 3 or 4 neutropenia than those with bilirubin levels that were less than 1.0 mg/dL (50% [19/38] versus 18% [47/266]; p<0.001). Patients with deficient glucuronidation of bilirubin, such as those with Gilbert's syndrome, may be at greater risk of myelosuppression when receiving therapy with CAMPTOSAR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . 5.3 Increased Risk of Neutropenia in Patients With Reduced UGT1A1 Activity Published studies have shown that individuals who are homozygous for either the UGT1A1*28 or *6 alleles (*28/*28, *6/*6) or who are compound or double heterozygous for the UGT1A1*28 and *6 alleles (*6/*28) are at increased risk for severe or life-threatening neutropenia during treatment with CAMPTOSAR. These individuals are UGT1A1 poor metabolizers and experience increased systemic exposure to SN-38, an active metabolite of irinotecan. Individuals who are heterozygous for either the UGT1A1*28 or *6 alleles (*1/*28, *1/*6) are intermediate metabolizers and may also have an increased risk of severe or life-threatening neutropenia [see Dosage and Administration (2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3 , 12.5) ] . Consider UGT1A1 genotype testing for the *28 and *6 alleles to determine UGT1A1 metabolizer status [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.5) ] . When administering CAMPTOSAR, consider a reduction in the CAMPTOSAR starting dose by at least one level for patients known to be homozygous or compound heterozygous for the UGT1A1*28 and/or *6 alleles (*28/*28, *6/*6, *6/*28). Closely monitor patients with UGT1A1 *28 or *6 alleles for neutropenia during and after…

Who should not take Camptosar

CAMPTOSAR Injection is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug or its excipients. • Hypersensitivity to CAMPTOSAR or its excipients ( 4 )

Overdose — what happens if you take too much

In U.S. phase 1 trials, single doses of up to 345 mg/m 2 of irinotecan were administered to patients with various cancers. Single doses of up to 750 mg/m 2 of irinotecan have been given in non-U.S. trials. The adverse events in these patients were similar to those reported with the recommended dosage and regimen. There have been reports of overdosage at doses up to approximately twice the recommended therapeutic dose, which may be fatal. The most significant adverse reactions reported were severe neutropenia and severe diarrhea. There is no known antidote for overdosage of CAMPTOSAR. Maximum supportive care should be instituted to prevent dehydration due to diarrhea and to treat any infectious complications.

U.S. Poison Control: call or text 1-800-222-1222 (free, 24/7). In an emergency call 911. From the FDA label; not medical advice.

Interactions

Strong CYP3A4 Inducers: Do not administer strong CYP3A4 inducers with CAMPTOSAR. ( 7.2 ) • Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Do not administer strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with CAMPTOSAR. ( 7.3 ) 7.1 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and Leucovorin (LV) In a phase 1 clinical study involving irinotecan, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and leucovorin (LV) in 26 patients with solid tumors, the disposition of irinotecan was not substantially altered when the drugs were co-administered. Although the C max and AUC 0–24 of SN-38, the active metabolite, were reduced (by 14% and 8%, respectively) when irinotecan was followed by 5-FU and LV administration compared with when irinotecan was given alone, this sequence of administration was used in the combination trials and is recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2) ] . Formal in vivo or in vitro drug interaction studies to evaluate the influence of irinotecan on the disposition of 5-FU and LV have not been conducted. 7.2 Strong CYP3A4 Inducers Exposure to irinotecan or its active metabolite SN-38 is substantially reduced in adult and pediatric patients concomitantly receiving the CYP3A4 enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, or St. John's wort. The appropriate starting dose for patients taking these or other strong inducers such as rifampin and rifabutin has not been defined. Consider substituting non-enzyme inducing therapies at least 2 weeks prior to initiation of CAMPTOSAR therapy. Do not administer strong CYP3A4 inducers with CAMPTOSAR unless there are no therapeutic alternatives. 7.3 Strong CYP3A4 or UGT1A1 Inhibitors Irinotecan and its active metabolite, SN-38, are metabolized via the human cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme (CYP3A4) and uridine diphosphate-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1), respectively, [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Patients receiving concomitant ketoconazole, a CYP3A4 and UGT1A1 inhibitor, have increased exposure to irinotecan and its active metabolite SN-38. Coadministration of CAMPTOSAR with other inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g., clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, lopinavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, voriconazole) or UGT1A1 (e.g., atazanavir, gemfibrozil, indinavir) may increase systemic exposure to irinotecan or SN-38. Discontinue strong CYP3A4 inhibitors at least 1 week prior to starting CAMPTOSAR therapy. Do not administer strong CYP3A4 or UGT1A1 inhibitors with CAMPTOSAR unless there are no therapeutic alternatives.

Drug class

How this class works, per Topoisomerase Inhibitors - LiverTox - NCBI Bookshelf.

May treat (source: NIH RxClass)

See how Camptosar ranks — best-rated topoisomerase inhibitor for:

Dosage forms

Injectable

The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.

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Frequently asked questions

What does Camptosar treat?
Camptosar (Irinotecan Hydrochloride) may be used to treat breast neoplasms, non-small-cell lung carcinoma, colonic neoplasms, leukemia, lymphoma, neoplasm metastasis, based on NIH RxClass drug-classification data (conditions a drug may treat — not a verbatim copy of the FDA-approved label). This is general reference, not medical advice.
How does Camptosar work?
Camptosar is a topoisomerase inhibitor. Topoisomerase inhibitors target enzymes that cells rely on to cut and rejoin their DNA during cell division. By trapping these enzymes after they cut the DNA but before they can reseal it, the drugs leave the DNA broken, which halts cell division and kills rapidly dividing cancer cells.
How is Camptosar rated?
pharmaranks gives Camptosar a composite score of 3.2 out of 5, currently based on 1 weighted source (FDA regulatory recall-safety data weighted highest). See our methodology at /how-we-rate.
Is there a coupon or discount for Camptosar?
pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Camptosar. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
Who makes Camptosar?
Camptosar is marketed by Pfizer. You can see Pfizer's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
Is Camptosar a brand-name or generic drug?
Camptosar is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Irinotecan Hydrochloride. Lower-cost generic equivalents containing Irinotecan Hydrochloride are available — ask your pharmacist.
Is Camptosar available over the counter?
No. Camptosar is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
What forms does Camptosar come in?
Camptosar is currently marketed as injectable, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
What class of drug is Camptosar?
Camptosar is classified as topoisomerase inhibitor, per the FDA's Established Pharmacologic Class.
Is Camptosar FDA-registered?
Camptosar is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA020571. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
Has Camptosar been recalled by the FDA?
Camptosar has no FDA recalls recorded under its own application in the openFDA enforcement database. Its recall-safety score reflects its manufacturer's overall recall record. This is general reference, not medical advice — check the FDA recall database for the latest alerts.
Is Camptosar safe?
There's no single safe-or-not verdict. pharmaranks gives Camptosar a recall-safety score of 64/100, based on its FDA recall history (no recalls under its own FDA application) — not an efficacy or side-effect rating. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings before use, and always consult a licensed professional.
What are the side effects of Camptosar?
Camptosar's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: Common adverse reactions (≥30%) observed in combination therapy clinical studies are: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, anorexia, mucositis, neutropenia, leukopenia (including lymphocytopenia), anemia, thrombocytopenia, asthenia, pain, fever, infection, abnormal bilirubin,… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.

Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.

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camptosar

64/100