InjectionClinical Overview
Etoposide Injection (100mg/5ml) and Capsules (50mg) is a semisynthetic podophyllotoxin derivative on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It forms a ternary complex with DNA and topoisomerase II, preventing the re-ligation of cleaved DNA strands and causing permanent double-stranded breaks that arrest cells in late S and G2 phases. Indicated in combination chemotherapy for small cell lung cancer (SCLC), refractory testicular germ cell tumors, Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, and acute leukemias.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Injection: Administer by slow intravenous infusion diluted in 0.9% NaCl or 5% Dextrose over at least 30 to 60 minutes. NEVER administer as rapid IV push, which precipitates severe hypotension. Capsules: Take orally on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Store capsules in a refrigerator (2-8°C).
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Dose-limiting leukopenia/neutropenia (nadir at 7-14 days), alopecia (occurs in >60%), nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis. Rare/Severe: Severe hypotension with rapid IV infusion, secondary acute myeloid leukemia (t-AML with 11q23 translocations), and anaphylaxis.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black Box Warning: Dose-limiting bone marrow suppression; monitor complete blood counts before each cycle. Black Box Warning: Infuse IV slowly over >30-60 minutes to prevent acute severe hypotension. Secondary leukemia risk (treatment-related AML).
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, oncological diagnosis, or chemotherapy protocol guidance. Cancer therapies require specialized administration under the direct supervision of a registered medical oncologist in an accredited healthcare facility.
