Etopophos
Etopophos is in a class of drugs known as podophyllotoxin derivatives; it slows or
stops the growth of cancer cells in your body. The length of treatment depends on the
types of drugs you are taking, how well your body responds to them, and the type of cancer
you have.
Etopophos is used to treat
- testicular cancer
- lung cancer
Etopophos also is used to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, mycosis fungoides, Hodgkin's
disease, acute myelogenous leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, chronic myelogenous
leukemia, Wilms' tumor, neuroblastoma, Kaposi's sarcoma related to acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), gestational trophoblastic tumors, ovarian germ-cell
tumors, hepatoma, Ewing's sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, brain tumors, and refractory advanced
breast cancer. High doses of etoposide along with other chemotherapy drugs have been used
with autologous bone marrow transplant for refractory advanced malignant neoplasms. Talk
to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.
Side effects of Etopophos
Temporary reduction in the production of blood cells by the bone marrow.
This can result in anaemia, risk of bruising or bleeding and infection. The reduction in
the number of blood cells in your blood can begin about seven days after the treatment has
been given, and usually reaches its lowest point at 10-14 days after the chemotherapy. The
number of blood cells will then increase steadily and will usually return to normal within
21-28 days.
The extent to which your number of blood cells is reduced depends on the dose of
chemotherapy you have and which other chemotherapy drugs, if any, are given in
combination. Your doctor can advise you how likely it is that your blood cells will be
lowered by the chemotherapy. Your blood will be checked regularly to see how well your
bone marrow is working.
If your temperature goes above 38°C (100.5°F), or you develop any unexplained
bruising or bleeding, or you suddenly feel unwell, even with a normal temperature, contact
your doctor or the hospital straight away.
Hair loss. This usually starts 3-4 weeks after the first dose of
etoposide, although it may happen earlier. Hair may be lost completely. You may also have
thinning and loss of eyelashes, eyebrows and other body hair. This is temporary and the
hair will regrow once the treatment is finished. CancerBACUP's section on coping with hair
loss has further information.
Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting. There are now very effective
anti-sickness drugs to prevent or greatly reduce this. If it does happen it may begin
after the treatment is given and can last for up to five days. It is more common when
etoposide is given as capsules rather than into the vein. If it is not controlled, or
continues, tell your doctor. They can prescribe other drugs that may be more effective.
CancerBACUP's section on managing nausea and vomiting has further information.
Less common side effects of Etopophos
Diarrhoea. This can usually be easily controlled with medicine but
tell your doctor if it is severe or continues. It is important to drink plenty of fluids
if you do have diarrhoea.
Loss of appetite. A dietician or specialist nurse at your hospital can
give advice. CancerBACUP's information on diet and the cancer patient has tips on boosting
appetite, coping with eating difficulties and maintaining weight.
Sore mouth and taste change. Your mouth may become sore, or you
may notice small ulcers during this treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids and cleaning your
teeth regularly and gently with a soft toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of this
happening. Tell your doctor if you do have any of these problems as they can prescribe
special mouthwashes and medicine to prevent or clear any mouth infection.
You may notice that your food tastes different. Normal taste will come back after the
treatment finishes.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness. It is important to allow
yourself plenty of time to rest. CancerBACUP has further information on coping with
fatigue.
Skin changes. Etoposide can cause a rash, which may be itchy. Your
doctor can prescribe medicine to help with this. Let your doctor know if this happens.
Your skin may darken, due to excess production of pigment. It usually returns to normal a
few months after the treatment has finished.
Sleeplessness, headache and confusion. These effects are very rare and
only occur with high dose treatment. If you have any of these side effects let your doctor
know straightaway.
Allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include skin rashes
and itching, a high temperature, shivering, redness of the face, a feeling of dizziness,
headache, breathlessness, anxiety and a desire to pass urine. You will be monitored for
any signs of an allergic reaction during the treatment. Tell your doctor or nurse if you
have any of these symptoms. |