About topotecan hcl
Topoisomerase I inhibitor chemotherapy
Used for
- Ovarian cancer that has returned after chemotherapy
- Small-cell lung cancer that has returned
- Advanced cervical cancer with cisplatin
Usual adult dose
Usually 1.5 mg/m² intravenously daily for 5 days, repeated every 21 days; dose varies by cancer and blood counts.
Common side effects
- Low blood counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
- Hair loss
- Fatigue and fever
Important warnings
- Can cause severe bone-marrow suppression and serious infections.
- Blood tests are needed before treatment and during each cycle.
- May cause lung inflammation; report new cough or breathing difficulty.
- Avoid pregnancy; treatment can harm an unborn baby.
Pregnancy
Can harm an unborn baby. Avoid pregnancy during treatment; seek medical guidance about timing after treatment.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for one week after the final dose.
Interactions
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow may worsen low blood counts.
- Drugs affecting kidney function may alter topotecan levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.