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Topotecan

Basics

Name

Topotecan

Pronunciation

(toe poe TEE kan)

Brand Names: US

  • Hycamtin

Therapeutic Category

  • Antineoplastic Agent, Camptothecin
  • Antineoplastic Agent, Topoisomerase Inhibitor

Medication Safety Issues

Sound-alike/look-alike issues:

Hycamtin may be confused with Mycamine

Topotecan may be confused with irinotecan

High alert medication:

The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes this medication among its list of drug classes (chemotherapeutic agent, parenteral and oral) which have a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error (High-Alert Medications in Acute Care, Community/Ambulatory Care, and Long-Term Care Settings).

Other safety concerns:

Topotecan overdoses have been reported; potential causes include omission of the leading zero and missing the decimal point when prescribing, preparing, and administering. Recommended intravenous doses should generally not exceed 4 mg; verify dose prior to administration.

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