Etoposide
Say it: eh-TOE-poh-side · Brand names: Etopophos
Etoposide is a chemotherapy medicine that stops cancer cells from copying their genes.
What it is
Cells use a protein called topoisomerase 2 to cut and rejoin their genetic code (DNA). Etoposide blocks this protein, so the DNA stays broken. The cancer cell then dies.
Often used for
- testicular cancer
- small cell lung cancer
- and sometimes lymphoma, leukemia, and other cancers
How you get it
Etoposide is usually given through a vein (IV) over 30 to 60 minutes. It is often given once a day for 3 to 5 days in a row, every 3 to 4 weeks. Some people take it as capsules instead. Your schedule may be different.
Common side effects and what helps
- Low blood counts. Your team will check your blood often.
- Hair loss. A soft hat or scarf can help.
- Upset stomach or throwing up. Take nausea medicine as your team tells you.
- Not feeling hungry. Eat small snacks during the day.
- Feeling tired. Rest and short walks can help.
- Mouth sores. Rinse often with a mild salt water or baking soda rinse.
Call your care team right away if you have
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher
- Chills, a sore throat, a cough, or burning when you pee (signs of infection)
- Bleeding or bruising that is unusual for you
- Feeling dizzy or faint during the infusion
- Itching, rash, swelling of the face or lips, or trouble breathing during or soon after the infusion
- Throwing up or diarrhea so bad you cannot keep fluids down
Before you start, tell your team
- If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
- If you have kidney or liver problems
- If you have had a reaction to etoposide before
- All the medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you take
Good to know
- You will have blood tests before each treatment to check your blood counts.
- Your nurse will give it slowly, because giving it too fast can lower your blood pressure.
- Rarely, years later, it can cause a new blood cancer, such as leukemia.
At home
- If you take capsules, swallow them whole with water.
- If you miss a dose or throw up after a dose, ask your team what to do. Do not take an extra dose on your own.
- Store the capsules as your pharmacist tells you. They are usually kept in the refrigerator.
- Wash your hands after touching the capsules. Caregivers should wear gloves if they handle them.
Questions to ask
- How many days in a row will I get this?
- Will I get it by IV or as capsules?
- What should I do if I get a fever at home?
- How long will my blood counts be low?
Part of these treatment plans
Side effect guides
Sources
Quick answers
- What is Etoposide?
- Etoposide is a chemotherapy medicine that stops cancer cells from copying their genes. Brand names: Etopophos.
- What is Etoposide used for?
- testicular cancer; small cell lung cancer; and sometimes lymphoma, leukemia, and other cancers.
- How is Etoposide given?
- Etoposide is usually given through a vein (IV) over 30 to 60 minutes. It is often given once a day for 3 to 5 days in a row, every 3 to 4 weeks. Some people take it as capsules instead. Your schedule may be different.
- What are the common side effects of Etoposide?
- Low blood counts. Hair loss. Upset stomach or throwing up. Not feeling hungry. Feeling tired. Mouth sores.
- When should I call my care team while taking Etoposide?
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher; Chills, a sore throat, a cough, or burning when you pee (signs of infection); Bleeding or bruising that is unusual for you; Feeling dizzy or faint during the infusion; Itching, rash, swelling of the face or lips, or trouble breathing during or soon after the infusion; Throwing up or diarrhea so bad you cannot keep fluids down.
- Which chemotherapy plans include Etoposide?
- BEAM, BEP, Carboplatin and etoposide, DA-EPOCH-R, RICE, VAC/IE, VIP.
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.