Etoposide

Written By Dr. Anuj Saini

Reviewed By Dr. Lalit Kanodia

Last updated 28 Mar 2025 | 06:00 AM (UTC)

Etoposide Uses

Etoposide is used in the treatment of testicular cancer and small cell lung cancer.

How Etoposide works

Etoposide is an anti-cancer medication. It works by suppressing the activity of an enzyme (topoisomerase II) involved in DNA multiplication of the cancer cells. This slows the growth of cancer cells and eventually kills them.

Common side effects of Etoposide

Diarrhea, Hair loss, Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Constipation, Decreased appetite, Dizziness, Infection, Liver toxicity, Skin pigmentation, Weakness, Leukemia (blood cancer), Anaphylactic reaction, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), Myocardial infarction, High blood pressure, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Mucositis

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Medicine brands for Etoposide

Posid

Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd

United Biotech Pvt Ltd

₹175 to ₹175

1 variant(s)

Etoplast

Neon Laboratories Ltd

₹108 to ₹441

2 variant(s)

Etoglob

Globela Pharma Pvt Ltd

₹375 to ₹416

2 variant(s)

Ethopul

Vhb Life Sciences Inc

₹55 to ₹55

1 variant(s)

Etopa

Getwell Pharma (I) Pvt Ltd

₹180 to ₹446

2 variant(s)

Celoside

Celon Laboratories Ltd

Expert advice for Etoposide

Etoposide is given as a slow infusion in the vein by a healthcare provider only.
Do not skip any dose and complete the course as suggested by your doctor.
Use an effective method of birth control to avoid pregnancy while taking this medication.
Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your electrolyte levels, liver function, blood cell count in your blood.
Let your doctor know if you notice a skin rash, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and swelling of the tongue.