Etopophos (Etoposide Phosphate) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Etopophos

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Etopophos

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Etopophos Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Etopophos

Generic Name: etoposide phosphate (Pronunciation: e TOE poe side FOS fate)

What is etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?

Etoposide phosphate is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Etoposide phosphate is used to treat cancer of the lung or testicles.

Etoposide phosphate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;
pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
feeling like you might pass out;
severe nausea and vomiting;
black, bloody, or tarry stools; or
coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Less serious side effects may include:

mild nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite;
constipation, diarrhea;
dizziness, tired feeling;
change in your sense of taste;
temporary hair loss; or
mild skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?

Do not receive etoposide phosphate without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

Before receiving etoposide phosphate, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or a weak immune system.

Etoposide phosphate can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. Avoid being near people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis.

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with etoposide phosphate. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), oral polio, chickenpox (varicella), BCG (Bacillus Calmette and Guérin), and nasal flu vaccine.

Using etoposide phosphate may increase your risk of developing other types of cancer, such as leukemia. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk.

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