Efficacy studies were limited to trials with at least 20 evaluable patients. Relevant data were extracted from published reports and abstracts. Irinotecan is an effective agent for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer. Activity against lung cancer has also been demonstrated. Limited data indicate activity against cancers of the ovary, cervix, stomach, and in non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
Major toxicity consists of myelosuppression and diarrhea.
Irinotecan is a useful addition to the antineoplastic drug family and offers significant efficacy for treatment of patients with fluorouracil-refractory colorectal cancer.