| "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path - and leave a trail." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~ |
| Chemotherapy Drugs - Etoposide |
| ORPHANS OF THE CANCER STORM |
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| What other names does this drug have? VP-16, VePesid, Etopophos, Toposar What does it look like? A clear fluid. It is also available as pale pink capsules of 50mg and 100mg How is it given? Intraveinous (IV), or as capsules which should be swallowed whole with plenty of water. How does it work? Etoposide prevents DNA from reproducing, and also causes death of dividing cells. What are the common side effects? Low blood cell counts (myelosuppression) Loss of appetite (anorexia) Nausea and vomiting Hair loss (alopecia) Fatigue What are the infrequent side effects? Hypotension (low blood pressure) Shortness of breath (dyspnea) Difficulty in walking Peripheral neuropathy (numbing or tingling in fingers or toes) Fever or chills Rash Secondary cancers (new cancers that occur later in life) Additional information about Etoposide capsules. - It is important that your child take the capsules at the right times. She must take them as directed by your doctor. - Keep the capsules in a safe place where children cannot reach them. - If your child's doctor decides to stop the treatment, return any remaining capsules to the pharmacist. Do not flush them down the toilet or throw them away. - If your child is sick just after taking the capsules, let his doctor know as he may need to take another dose. Do not give another capsule without first informing the doctor. - If you forget to give your child a capsule, do not take a double dose. Let the doctor know and keep to your child's regular dose schedule. For More information The British Columbia Cancer Agency has comprehensive professionals and patient (capsules / injection) info sheets about etoposide. Go back to CHEMOTHERAPY main page. Go back to GENERAL TREATMENT index. Go back to ORbIT TREATMENT index. Go back to SONGS TREATMENT index. |
| Disclaimer This information page has been prepared by an individual who does not have medical training. However its contents have been reviewed by appropriately qualified medical professionals for accuracy and quality. This page is intended for information purposes only and should not be used as a guide to diagnosis or treatment. If this information raises any concerns about your child’s condition or care protocol, discuss them with his or her paediatrician, oncologist, or other appropriate medical professional who has knowledge of the case. |