Celoside (Etoposide) is a chemotherapy drug that belongs to the class of topoisomerase II inhibitors. It is widely used in the treatment of various cancers by preventing cancer cells from dividing and growing.

Uses

1. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
2. Testicular cancer.
3. Lymphomas and certain leukemias.
4. Ovarian and other solid tumors (off-label in some cases).

Etoposide inhibits the enzyme topoisomerase II, which is critical for DNA replication and repair. By interfering with this process, it induces DNA breaks, leading to apoptosis (programmed cell death) in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Dosage and Administration

• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): 35–50 mg/m²/day intravenously for 4–5 days or orally.
• Testicular Cancer: Typically combined with other agents such as cisplatin or bleomycin.
• Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal or hepatic impairment.

Side Effects

• Common: Nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, low blood cell counts (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia).
• Serious: Severe myelosuppression, infections, hypersensitivity reactions, secondary leukemia.

Precautions

1. Bone Marrow Suppression: Monitor blood counts regularly.
2. Infections: Avoid exposure to infections due to immunosuppression.
3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended; can harm the fetus or infant.
4. Drug Interactions: Avoid using with live vaccines and drugs that interact with CYP3A4 enzymes.

Storage
Store at 15–25°C (room temperature) and protect from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.