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Etoposide ( ee-toe-POE-syd ) (VP-16, VePesid®) What is this medication used for? Etoposide destroys cancer cells by interfering with their growth cycle.
• Low blood pressure or shortness of breath may occur while the medicine is being given, so blood pressure and heart rate will be checked while this medicine is being taken. • Dizziness or difficulty breathing should be reported to the person administering the medicine. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
What does it look like? • Clear fluid • Capsule How is it given? • Into the vein (IV) • By mouth What are the common side effects? • Mild nausea or vomiting • Loss of appetite • Hair loss • Low blood counts 1–2 weeks after treatment What are the less common side effects? • Low blood pressure during the infusion • Allergic reaction during the infusion • Mouth sores (mucositis) • Fatigue • Abnormal liver function tests • Change in the color of the nail beds • Secondary cancer (for example, leukemia) • Decrease in fertility in female patients Special instructions:
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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