Etovel 100 mg/5 ml contains Etoposide, a plant-derived chemotherapeutic agent (a podophyllotoxin derivative) that has been widely used for decades in treating various cancers.
It is administered as an intravenous infusion, allowing direct delivery into the bloodstream for systemic anti-cancer effect.
Etoposide is a cornerstone drug in many combination chemotherapy regimens, especially for cancers of the lung, testis, and blood.

Mechanism of Action

Etoposide works by interfering with DNA replication, targeting a critical enzyme called topoisomerase II.

• Normally, topoisomerase II helps unwind DNA strands so that cells can copy their genetic material during division.

• Etoposide binds to the enzyme-DNA complex, preventing it from sealing the breaks it makes in DNA. This leads to accumulation of DNA breaks.

• Cancer cells, which divide rapidly, are especially vulnerable to this damage, leading to their death (apoptosis).

  Uses / Indications

  Etovel (etoposide injection) is indicated in the treatment of various malignancies, including:

  • Small cell lung cancer (SCLC), often combined with cisplatin or carboplatin as part of first-line therapy.

  • Testicular cancer, usually in combination regimens like BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin).

  • Also used off-label or as part of protocols for lymphomas, acute leukemias, and certain brain tumours.

    Adverse Effects

    Etoposide, like many chemotherapies, affects both cancerous and healthy rapidly dividing cells, leading to a range of side effects.

    Common side effects include:

    • Bone marrow suppression, leading to low white blood cells (infection risk), low red cells (anemia), or low platelets (bruising, bleeding). Regular blood counts are essential.

    • Hair loss (reversible).

    • Nausea and vomiting, managed with modern antiemetics.