Brand Names: Etopophos

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

• What is etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?
• What are the possible side effects of etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?
• What is the most important information I should know about etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before using etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?
• How is etoposide phosphate given (Etopophos)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Etopophos)?
• What happens if I overdose (Etopophos)?
• What should I avoid while receiving etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?
• What other drugs will affect etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?
• Where can I get more information?

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 not 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 a serious side effect such as:

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, sores in your mouth and throat;
• easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin;
• pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating;
• pain, burning, irritation, or skin changes where the injection was given;
• feeling like you might pass out; or
• severe nausea and vomiting.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite;
• constipation, diarrhea;
• dizziness, feeling tired or weak;
• 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.

Read the Etopophos (etoposide phosphate) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

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

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 are sick or have infections. Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding or injury. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

Your blood will need to be tested often. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests. Visit your doctor regularly.

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