Brand
name: GENERIC
NAME: ETOPOSIDE - ORAL (eh-TOE-poh-side)
BRAND NAME(S): Vepesid
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions
| Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: This medication may decrease your body's ability to fight
infections (due to bone marrow suppression). Immediately notify your
doctor if you develop symptoms of an infection (persistent sore throat,
fever); easy bruising or bleeding, or unusual fatigue. Your doctor
will closely monitor you while you are using this medication.
USES ETOSID (Etoposide, VP-16, VePesid Oral) without prescriprions:
Etoposide is used in combination with other medicines to treat
various forms of cancer.
HOW TO USE:
This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed.
Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or
experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose or if you miss
a dose,
contact your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea or tiredness
are common side effects. Taking the medication on an empty stomach
with a full glass of water may help relieve vomiting. Changes in
diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help
lessen
some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary
to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Temporary hair loss is
another common side effect. Normal hair growth should return after
treatment
has ended. Contact your doctor without delay if you experience any
of the following symptoms: fever, chills, cough, lower back or side
pain, painful or difficult urination, unusual bleeding or bruising,
black/tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, small red spots on
skin, sores in mouth or on lips, fast heartbeat, difficulty walking,
numbness
or tingling in fingers/toes, weakness. In the unlikely event you
have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling,
dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: any
infections, blood disorders, liver or kidney problems, heart disease,
any allergies. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors
or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order
to
lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. This medication
can lower your body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your
doctor if you develop any signs of an infection such as: fever, sore
throat,
rash, chills. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent
of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received
oral polio vaccine. Avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose
without first washing your hands. Caution is advised when using this
drug in
the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of
the drug. Etoposide is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult
your doctor before using this medication. Etoposide is excreted into
breast milk and may harm the nursing infant. Do not breast-feed without
first consulting your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
medications you may use, especially: cyclosporine, mibefradil, St
John's wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
OVERDOSE ETOSID (Etoposide, VP-16, VePesid Oral):
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US
national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should
call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: Regular doctor visits are important. Frequent blood tests will
be done to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE:
Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it
is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double
the dose to catch up. Contact your doctor.
STORAGE: ETOSID (Etoposide, VP-16, VePesid Oral)
