Etoposide
Etoposide is a chemotherapy medication classified as a topoisomerase II inhibitor. It works by causing DNA damage in cancer cells, preventing their replication and leading to cell death. This medication is used to treat various malignancies including small cell lung cancer, testicular cancer, and certain types of lymphoma.
Etoposide is an antineoplastic agent that treats various cancers by inhibiting topoisomerase II to cause DNA damage in rapidly dividing cells.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01CB01
- RxNorm
- 4179
- Generic
- Etoposide
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Vepesid, Toposar, Avopef, Etopophos
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- injection, capsule, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Etoposide is used to treat small cell lung cancer, testicular cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and acute myeloid leukemia. It may also be used in combination with other chemotherapy agents for other malignancies as determined by an oncologist.
Etoposide inhibits topoisomerase II, an enzyme essential for DNA replication and repair. By inhibiting this enzyme, it causes DNA strand breaks, preventing cancer cells from dividing and multiplying, ultimately leading to cell death.
Etoposide can cause significant bone marrow suppression, requiring regular blood count monitoring. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and increased risk of infection. It is typically administered intravenously but is also available in oral form. Close monitoring by an oncology specialist is essential during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy