Topotecan
Say it: toh-poh-TEE-kan · Brand names: Hycamtin
Topotecan is a chemotherapy medicine that stops cancer cells from copying their genes.
What it is
Cells use a protein called topoisomerase 1 to unwind their genetic code (DNA) before copying it. Topotecan blocks this protein. The DNA breaks and the cancer cell dies.
Often used for
- small cell lung cancer
- ovarian cancer
- cervical cancer
How you get it
Topotecan can be given through a vein (IV) over about 30 minutes, or as capsules you swallow. It is often taken once a day for 5 days in a row, every 3 weeks. Your schedule may be different.
Common side effects and what helps
- Low blood counts. Your team will check your blood often.
- Feeling tired or weak. Rest and short walks can help.
- Hair loss. A soft hat or scarf can help.
- Upset stomach or throwing up. Take nausea medicine as your team tells you.
- Diarrhea, mainly with the capsules. Drink plenty of fluids.
- Not feeling hungry. Eat small snacks during the day.
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
- A new cough or trouble breathing
- Diarrhea that does not stop, or diarrhea with fever
- 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 problems
- If you have lung problems
- 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 team may lower the dose if your kidneys are not working well.
- Rarely, it can cause serious lung inflammation. Tell your team about any new breathing trouble.
At home
- If you take capsules, swallow them whole with water. Do not open, crush, or chew them.
- If you throw up after a dose or miss a dose, ask your team what to do. Do not take an extra dose on your own.
- Keep the capsules in the box they came in, in the refrigerator, unless your pharmacist tells you otherwise.
- Wash your hands after touching the capsules. Caregivers should wear gloves if they handle them.
Questions to ask
- Will I get topotecan by IV or as capsules?
- What should I do if I miss a dose or throw up?
- How should I store the capsules?
- How often will my blood be checked?
Side effect guides
Sources
Quick answers
- What is Topotecan?
- Topotecan is a chemotherapy medicine that stops cancer cells from copying their genes. Brand names: Hycamtin.
- What is Topotecan used for?
- small cell lung cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer.
- How is Topotecan given?
- Topotecan can be given through a vein (IV) over about 30 minutes, or as capsules you swallow. It is often taken once a day for 5 days in a row, every 3 weeks. Your schedule may be different.
- What are the common side effects of Topotecan?
- Low blood counts. Feeling tired or weak. Hair loss. Upset stomach or throwing up. Diarrhea, mainly with the capsules. Not feeling hungry.
- When should I call my care team while taking Topotecan?
- 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; A new cough or trouble breathing; Diarrhea that does not stop, or diarrhea with fever; Throwing up or diarrhea so bad you cannot keep fluids down.
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.