Etoposide is a chemotherapy drug and in medical use since 1983. It is classified as a “plant alkaloid”.
Etoposide blocks an enzyme in cells called topoisomerase. This enzym is required for cell doubling and growth. All cells need this enzyme to keep their DNA stable during the process of dividing. Inhibiting this enzyme leads to breaks in the DNA, which leads to cancer cell death.
Etoposide is available in oral and intravenous forms. The application into the vein has to be done carefully. Etoposide may cause a feeling of burning and pain. In case that the medication may leak out of the vein at the injection site, severe tissue damage can be the result.
Inform your doctor, if the area of injection becomes red, swollen, or painful at any time during or after the injection.
Etoposide is used for a number of types of cancer, like testicular cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, lymphoma, leukemia, brain cancer, and ovarian cancer.
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Common side effects are:
- Low white blood cell count which can lead to infections
- Low platelet count, which can increase your risk of bleeding
- Mouth Ulcers (Mucositis)
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
Etoposide can stop sperm production and decrease the desire for sex during the treatment. Women may face hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Please avoid being pregnant while receiving Etoposide and at least 6 months after treatment. It can cause birth defects.