Etoposide: how to take it safely
VePesid, Etopophos
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats lung and testicular cancer, lymphoma and some leukaemias.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- It is given as a slow drip into a vein, or as capsules taken at home.
- You will have regular blood tests.
When to take it
Given for a few days each cycle, as your specialist plans.
Take it with
Capsules on an empty stomach or with food, as your team says.
What to avoid
- Tell your team if you have liver or kidney problems.
- Pregnancy and fathering a child during treatment. Use reliable contraception and ask your team how long to continue it.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Nausea, vomiting, hair loss, tiredness, low blood counts.
Get help if
Trouble breathing, a rash or low blood pressure during the drip: tell the staff straight away. Fever, signs of infection or unusual bleeding: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.