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Etoposide
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About etoposide
| Type of medicine | Anti-neoplastic |
| Used for | Some types of lung cancer Lymphomas (cancers of the lymphatic system, a network of tubes, glands and organs which form part of the body's defence against infection) Testicular cancer |
| Also called | Vepesid® Eposin® Etopophos® |
| Available as | Capsules Injection |
Cancers form when some cells within the body multiply in an uncontrollable and abnormal manner. These cells spread, and destroy nearby tissues. Etoposide works by stopping the cancer cells from multiplying.
Before taking etoposide
Before taking etoposide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
- If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
- If you have had an infection recently.
- If you are currently taking a medicine called ciclosporin.
How to take etoposide
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Try to take etoposide at the same time of day to avoid missing any doses.
- If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
- Courses of etoposide should not be repeated within a 21 day period.
- Etoposide should be taken with a glass of water, on an empty stomach.
Getting the most from your treatment
- If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
- Keep your regular doctor's appointments so your progress can be monitored.
- Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
- Women should avoid getting pregnant while taking etoposide; speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on contraception.
- You will need to have regular blood tests while taking etoposide.
Can etoposide cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Diarrhoea | Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids |
| Temporary hair loss | This should be temporary and cease when treatment ends |
| Soreness of the mouth and tongue | Try sucking pieces of ice Avoid citrus fruit/drink as these may aggravate the soreness |
| Feeling or being sick | Eat little and often Stick to simple foods such as dry toast If you are sick, drink small amounts of liquid frequently |
Other, more rare, side effects you may notice are itching and rash, or pins and needles.
Important: If you experience problems with your sight, tiredness or sleepiness, make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
How to store etoposide
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Vepesid® capsules, Bristol-Myers Pharmaceuticals, 8 August 2005, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised July 2005, accessed 14 Febrary 2008.
- British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
- Manufacturer's PIL, Vepesid® capsules, Bristol-Myers Pharmaceuticals, June 2006, electronic Medicines Compendium. Accessed 14 February 2008.
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