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Etopophos

Generic name: etoposide phosphate [e-TOE-poe-side-FOS-fate]

Drug class: mitotic inhibitors

What is Etopophos?

Etopophos can be used to treat lung cancer or testicular cancer.Etopophos can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Etopophos

If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat, or a severe reaction to the skin (fever or sore throat with burning eyes, severe skin pain or blistering, or a red or purple rash), seek emergency medical attention.

Etopophos may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Pain, burning, irritation, or changes in the skin where the injection is given
  • Vomiting and severe nausea
  • If you notice bruising or bleeding under the skin, or if it is unusual, or if there are purple or red spots, or if your skin is prone to bruising or bleeding,
  • Low white blood cell count—fever, sores on the lips, throats, and skin, cough

Some of the common side effects associated with Etopophos include:

  • Nausea, vomiting;
  • Constipation;
  • Fever;
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.

Warnings

Etopophos may increase your risk of bleeding or infection. If you notice unusual bleeding or bruising, or if there are new signs of infection, such as fever, mouth sores, or sore throats, call your doctor.

Before you take this drug

This medication should not be used if you have an allergy to etoposide.

Tell your doctor about any of the following:

  • Kidney disease
  • If you are taking a blood thinner, such as Warfarin, and have regular "INR" tests or prothrombin times,

Etopophos can increase your risk for other cancers, including leukemia. Speak to your doctor about the specific risks you face.If either the mother or father uses Etopophos, Etoposide may harm the unborn child.

  • Do not take etoposide while pregnant if you're a woman. Use birth control during treatment and for 6 months following your last dose.
  • Use effective birth control if you're a man and your partner can get pregnant. Continue to use birth control for at least four months after your last dose.
  • Do not wait to tell your doctor if you become pregnant while using etoposide.

Both men and women may be affected by this medicine. It is still important to use birth control to avoid pregnancy, as etoposide may harm the unborn child.Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking etoposide.

How to take Etopophos?

Etoposide can be infused into a vein. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider.Etopophos can be given to patients with testicular cancer during the first five days of a treatment cycle lasting 21 or 28 days.Etopophos can be given to a lung tumor for 4 or 5 consecutive days.You will be told by your doctor for how long you should take this medication.If you experience any pain or swelling when Etopophos injections are given, tell your caregivers.Etoposide increases your risk of bleeding and infection. You will be required to undergo frequent medical testing. The results of your tests may delay cancer treatment.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you missed your Etopophos appointment, call your doctor to get instructions.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

You could get a serious infection if you receive a live vaccine while taking Etopophos. Live vaccines are available for measles (chickenpox), rubella (MMR), yellow fever, typhoid (typhoid), polio (rotavirus), typhoid (typhoid), varicella, zoster, and influenza (nasal flu).Avoid being around people who are sick. If you notice any signs of an infection, tell your doctor immediately.Avoid any activities that could increase your risk of injury or bleeding. Take extra precautions to avoid bleeding when shaving or brushing your teeth.

Interaction with other drug

Etoposide can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal supplements. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.