How do you take Etoposide?

Etoposide is given in a hospital setting — either as a drip into your vein (IV) or as capsules taken by mouth. The dose depends on your body size, the type of cancer, and your treatment plan. Your oncologist (cancer doctor) will determine exactly how much and how often you need it. If taking capsules like Etoglob 100, swallow them whole on an empty stomach as directed by your doctor.

What are the side effects of Etoposide?

Nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss (your hair will usually grow back after treatment), feeling very tired and weak, diarrhea or stomach upset

Who should not take Etoposide?

People who are allergic to etoposide, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with very low blood cell counts (severe bone marrow suppression), and people with severe liver or kidney problems unless closely monitored by a specialist.

Prescription

Chemotherapy (Topoisomerase inhibitor / Anti-cancer drug)

Etoposide

Q: What is Etoposide used for?

Lung cancer, testicular cancer, lymphoma (cancer of the blood/lymph nodes), leukemia (blood cancer), ovarian cancer

Last reviewed June 2026

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Etoposide is a strong cancer-fighting drug (chemotherapy) that works by damaging the DNA inside cancer cells so they cannot grow and multiply.

What is it used for?

Lung cancertesticular cancerlymphoma (cancer of the blood/lymph nodes)leukemia (blood cancer)ovarian cancer

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Cancer Treatment

How it works

Inhibits topoisomerase II, preventing the religation of DNA strands after they have been cleaved during replication and transcription, leading to accumulation of DNA breaks and apoptosis of rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Only use etoposide under the direct care of a cancer specialist — never buy or use it on your own from any pharmacy or market. Report any fever, unusual bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor immediately as your immune system will be weakened. Do not share this medication with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.

Common Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting
loss of appetite
hair loss (your hair will usually grow back after treatment)
feeling very tired and weak
diarrhea or stomach upset

Serious Side Effects

Very low blood count — which can cause high fever
serious infections
or unusual bleeding and bruising (go to the hospital immediately). Severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing
swelling of the face
or sudden rash during or after the drug is given. Severe mouth sores or signs of liver problems like yellowing of the eyes.

Drug Interactions

Blood-thinning drugs like warfarin — etoposide can increase the risk of bleeding. Other chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy may increase side effects on your blood cells. Avoid alcohol as it can put extra stress on your liver while on this treatment.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Etoposide is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can seriously harm an unborn baby, and both men and women should use reliable contraception during treatment and for some months after.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to etoposide
pregnant or breastfeeding women
people with very low blood cell counts (severe bone marrow suppression)
and people with severe liver or kidney problems unless closely monitored by a specialist.

How to Store

Store Etoglob 100 capsules at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat — this is especially important in hot Nigerian weather. Keep in a cool, dry place and far out of reach of children. Do not store in the bathroom or near water.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.