Often used for:
Leukemia and other cancers
What is teniposide?
Teniposide is an IV chemotherapy agent that may cause tissue damage if extravasated. Body fluids can contain the drug for 48 hours after administration.
Possible side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Allergic reactions (flushing, rash, itching, swelling, blood pressure changes, cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills)
- Low blood counts with infection, bleeding, and fatigue risk
- Diarrhea
- Mouth or lip sores
- Hair loss
- Skin rash
- Peripheral neuropathy symptoms
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Not all patients experience these effects. Report all symptoms.
Tips for families
- Discuss instructions with the care team.
- Blood pressure is monitored before and after infusions; report symptoms immediately.
- Nurses observe for at least one hour after dosing for allergic reactions.
- Caregivers should wear gloves when handling patient body fluids for 48 hours after treatment.
