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What should I discuss with my health care provider before using etoposide phosphate (Etopophos)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to etoposide.

To make sure you can safely receive etoposide phosphate, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• kidney disease; or
• a weak immune system (from disease or from taking certain medicines).

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use etoposide phosphate if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether etoposide phosphate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are being treated with etoposide phosphate.

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

How is etoposide phosphate given (Etopophos)?

Etoposide phosphate is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine is sometimes given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 3-1/2 hours to complete.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when etoposide phosphate is injected.

Etoposide phosphate is usually given for 4 or 5 days in a row every 3 to 4 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Etoposide phosphate can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill.

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

Etoposide phosphate is used together with other cancer medications. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications.

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