What is the most important information I should know about teniposide?
Teniposide should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare
provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Serious side effects have been reported with the use of teniposide including: allergic reactions
(difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); decreased
bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black,
bloody or tarry stools; fever or chills; or signs of infection); and others. Talk to your doctor about the
possible side effects from treatment with teniposide.
What is teniposide?
Teniposide is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. Teniposide interferes with the growth of
cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.
Teniposide is used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (blood cancer) in
children.
Teniposide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not use teniposide?
Do not use teniposide without first talking to your doctor if you have
The use of teniposide may be dangerous if you have any of the conditions
listed above.
Teniposide is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that teniposide is known to
be harmful to an unborn baby.
Do not use teniposide without first talking to your
doctor if you are
pregnant. Discuss with your doctor the appropriate use of
birth control during
treatment with teniposide if necessary.
It is not known whether teniposide passes into breast milk. Do not take teniposide
without first talking to your doctor if you are
breast feeding a baby.
The safety and effectiveness of teniposide in children has not been established.
How should I use teniposide?
Teniposide should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare
provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with teniposide
depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have
any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.
Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other
medical evaluations during treatment with teniposide to monitor progress and side effects.
Skin accidentally exposed to teniposide should be rinsed thoroughly with soap and warm
water.
Your healthcare provider will store teniposide as directed by the manufacturer. If you are
storing teniposide at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.
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