FOLFOXIRI

FOLFOXIRI is a chemotherapy regimen for treatment of colorectal cancer. It is a combination of three chemotherapy drugs: 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan.

Mechanism of Action

Each drug in the FOLFOXIRI regimen has a unique mechanism of action. 5-fluorouracil is an antimetabolite that inhibits DNA synthesis by mimicking the building blocks of DNA. Leucovorin enhances the effectiveness of 5-fluorouracil by stabilizing the bond between the drug and the enzyme it targets. Oxaliplatin is a platinum-based drug that forms covalent bonds with DNA, leading to DNA damage and cell death. Irinotecan inhibits topoisomerase I, an enzyme involved in DNA replication, leading to DNA damage and cell death.

Indications

FOLFOXIRI is indicated for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. It is typically used in patients who have not responded to other treatments or in those with aggressive disease.

Side Effects

Like all chemotherapy regimens, FOLFOXIRI has potential side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, neuropathy, and alopecia.

Contraindications

FOLFOXIRI is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the drugs in the regimen. It should also be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, as these conditions can affect the metabolism and excretion of the drugs.

See Also

• Chemotherapy
• Colorectal cancer
• 5-fluorouracil
• Leucovorin
• Oxaliplatin
• Irinotecan