Etoposide
Vepesid (etoposide) is a prescription chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer, including small cell lung cancer and testicular cancer. It works by inhibiting cancer cell division, helping to slow or stop the growth of malignant cells. This medication is typically administered under the supervision of an oncologist in a clinical setting.
Vepesid is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain cancers by interfering with cancer cell division and growth.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203058
- Generic
- Vepesid
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Vepesid is primarily used to treat small cell lung cancer, testicular cancer, and is sometimes used in combination regimens for certain types of lymphomas and leukemias. It may be prescribed for other cancers as determined by an oncologist.
Vepesid contains etoposide, which inhibits an enzyme called topoisomerase II that cancer cells need to divide and multiply. By blocking this enzyme, the medication causes DNA strand breaks in cancer cells, preventing their replication and leading to cell death.
Vepesid is a potent chemotherapy agent with significant side effects, including bone marrow suppression, nausea, and hair loss. It should only be used under close medical supervision by healthcare providers experienced in cancer treatment. Patients should discuss all potential risks and benefits with their oncologist before starting therapy.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy