Etoposide is a cell cycle-specific plant alkaloid that inhibits DNA synthesis in the S and G2 phases so that cells do not enter mitosis and prophase.

Refractory testicular tumors, small cell lung cancer.

Metabolized in the liver and rapidly excreted mostly by the kidneys and to a smaller extent in the bile. Half-life: 4 to 11 hours.

♦ Adult: In combination therapy for testicular cancer, 50 to 100 mg/m² IV on days 1 to 5 or 100 mg/m² IV on days 1, 3, and 5. In combination therapy for small cell lung cancer, 35 mg/m² day for 4 days or 50 mg/m² per day for 5 days. Repeat courses are given at 3- to 4-week intervals. PO, twice the IV dose, rounded to the nearest 50 mg.