Etoposide – Intravenous

Etoposide – Intravenous
(e-TOE-poe-side)

Also Known As: VP-16, Vepesid

How It Is Given:

Intravenously (IV, by vein)

Early Side Effects (beginning within one week) Can Include:

  • Damage to your skin if it leaks outside the vein into nearby tissue. Tell your nurse right away if you have any of these at the injection area while you are getting the drug:
    -Pain,
    -Burning,
    – Any change in sensation.
  • A metallic taste while you are receiving the drug. It lasts for a short rime.
  • Mild nausea or loss of appetite lasting for one to two days.
  • Facial flushing during the infusion.
  • Allergic reactions, but they are rare.
  • Low blood pressure while you are receiving the drug.
  • Mouth sores within four to seven days.

Late Side Effects (beginning after one week) Can Include:

  • A temporary decrease in blood cell counts one to two weeks after each treatment. Whire blood cells and platelets are mostly affected.
  • Thinning or loss of hair is common. Your hair will grow back when your treatment is done.
  • Numbness and tingling in hands and feet. It usually starts after several treatments.

Special Points:

  • This drug c.an harm an unborn child. You must use birth control to prevent pregnancy. Tell your doctor immediately if you think you or your partner could be pregnant.
  • You may have a metallic taste in your mouth for a few days. Suck on hard candy to lessen the taste.
  • Aspirin, NSAIDs (e.g., Motrin®, Aleve®), and vitamin E can add to bleeding problems. Do not take medicine that has them unless your doctor says it is okay. Your nurse will give you a fact card that tells you what drugs you cannot take and what you can use instead.
  • Tell your docror or nurse if you are taking any other medicines or have changed medicines. Some may change the way this drug works. Include:
    -Medicines that do and do not require a prescription.
    – Herbal remedies.
    -Vitamins.
    – Dietary supplements.
Call Your Doctor or Nurse If You:
  • Have a fever of 100.4° F (38° C) or higher.
  • Cannot keep anything you ear or drink down for 24 hours.
  • Have any sign of bleeding. This includes:
    – Black bowel movements.
    – Bruising.
    – Faint red rash.
    – Other signs of bleeding.
  • Have mouth sores that prevent you from eating or drinking.
  • Any questions or concerns.
  • Any unexpected, unexplained problems.

The information on this card is selective and does nor cover all possible side effects; others may occur. Please report any problems co your doctor.