Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
General Medication Fact Sheet for Vepesid
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Vepesid |
| Generic Name | Etoposide |
| Boxed/Label Warning | May cause myelosuppression, potentially leading to serious infections or bleeding. Secondary malignancies have also been reported. Administer under the supervision of a qualified physician experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents. |
| Purpose | Treatment of certain cancers, including small cell lung cancer, testicular cancer, and leukemia. |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits topoisomerase II, an enzyme involved in DNA replication and repair, leading to DNA strand breaks and cell death. |
| Dosage Forms | Capsules, Injection |
| Available Strengths | 50 mg capsules, 100 mg capsules, 20 mg/mL injection |
| Dosage Frequency | Oral: Typically once daily for several days or as directed by a healthcare provider. IV: Usually administered over 30-60 minutes for several days, repeated at intervals. |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, mouth sores, diarrhea, abdominal pain. |
| Serious Side Effects | Myelosuppression (decreased white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets), severe infections, bleeding, allergic reactions, liver problems, secondary malignancies. |
| Drug Interactions | Warfarin, phenytoin, methotrexate, cyclosporine, certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), drugs affecting liver enzymes. |
| Important Notes | Monitor blood counts regularly. Use effective contraception during and after treatment. May cause fetal harm. |
| Storage | Store capsules at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Follow specific instructions for storing and handling the injection solution. |
| Missed Dose | Consult your healthcare provider immediately for guidance. Do not take a double dose. |
| Alternatives | Doxorubicin, Cisplatin, Paclitaxel, Irinotecan |
Vepesid Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Doxorubicin | Intercalates into DNA and inhibits topoisomerase II. | Anthracycline antibiotic used in various cancers. |
| Cisplatin | Forms DNA adducts, disrupting DNA replication and transcription. | Platinum-based chemotherapy drug. |
| Paclitaxel (Taxol) | Promotes microtubule assembly and inhibits their disassembly. | Taxane chemotherapy drug. |
| Irinotecan (Camptosar) | Inhibits topoisomerase I, leading to DNA damage. | Topoisomerase inhibitor. |
Vepesid Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Myelosuppression (decreased white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets) |
| Vomiting | Severe infections |
| Hair loss | Bleeding |
| Fatigue | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Loss of appetite | Liver problems |
| Mouth sores | Secondary malignancies (e.g., leukemia) |
| Diarrhea | Tumor Lysis Syndrome |
Vepesid Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Cell Lung Cancer | Oral: 50-100 mg/m²/day for 10-14 days. IV: 35-50 mg/m²/day for 4-5 days. | Adjusted based on blood counts and tolerance. | Oral: Taken daily. IV: Administered over 30-60 minutes. Consult with your doctor. |
| Testicular Cancer | Oral: 50-100 mg/m²/day for 10-14 days. IV: 50-100 mg/m²/day for 5 days. | Adjusted based on blood counts and tolerance. | Oral: Taken daily. IV: Administered over 30-60 minutes. Consult with your doctor. |
| Leukemia | Dosage varies based on specific type and treatment protocol. | Adjusted based on response and tolerance. | Consult with your doctor for specific administration instructions. |
