Why is etoposide called VP-16?

Why is etoposide called VP-16?

Etoposide was first synthesized in 1966 and U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval was granted in 1983. The nickname VP-16 likely comes from a compounding of the last name of one of the chemists who performed early work on the drug (von Wartburg) and podophyllotoxin.

What is VP drug?

What is this medicine? ETOPOSIDE, VP-16 (e toe POE side) is a chemotherapy drug. It is used to treat testicular cancer, lung cancer, and other cancers. COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Etopophos, Toposar, VePesid.

What is etoposide used for?

Etoposide is used to treat small cell lung cancer. It is usually given in combination with other cancer medicines. Etoposide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What does topotecan hydrochloride do?

Topotecan hydrochloride blocks a certain enzyme needed for cell division and DNA repair, and it may kill cancer cells. It is a type of topoisomerase inhibitor and a type of camptothecin analog. Also called Hycamtin.

Is etoposide a chemotherapy drug?

Drug type: Etoposide is an anti-cancer (“antineoplastic” or “cytotoxic”) chemotherapy drug. This medication is classified as a “plant alkaloid” and “topoisomerase II inhibitor.” (For more detail, see “How this drug works” section below).

What medication is given with topotecan?

This medicine is also used to treat a certain type of lung cancer called small cell lung cancer. It is also used in combination with cisplatin to treat cancer of the cervix that has come back and cannot be treated with surgery or radiation. Topotecan belongs to the group of medicines called antineoplastics.

What does topotecan do in the body?

Topotecan is a type of chemotherapy drug called a topoisomerase 1 inhibitor. It works by blocking a chemical called topoisomerase 1. This chemical helps to separate and repair the DNA in cells when they divide. Cancer cells need to make and repair DNA in order to grow and multiply.