Vincristine

How do I say this name?

vin-KRIS-teen

What is this medicine used for?

Vincristine kills cancer cells.

This medicine may be called by the brand names, Oncovin^® and Vincasar PFS^®.

How is this medicine given?

Vincristine is injected into the veins.

Are there any special things I should do while on this medicine?

Vincristine can decrease the number of white blood cells in your body, cells that usually help you fight infections. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to reduce your risk of infection.

Tell the doctor or nurse right away if you have redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site. If vincristine leaks out of the vein it is injected into, it can damage the tissue and cause scarring.

What side effects are common with this medicine?

• Reversible hair loss
• Reversible nerve problems
• Tumor pain, burning, or stinging within 3 hours of dose
• Muscle or jaw pain
• Constipation with abdominal pain
• Increased risk of infection for 4-7 days after therapy
• Allergic reactions

When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if you are worried about a side effect or have questions about your medical care.

Call the doctor at once if you have any of these side effects:

• Convulsions or seizures
• Redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site
• Symptoms of allergic reactions:

  Skin rash, hives, or itching

  Shortness of breath, wheezing, or trouble breathing

  Tightness of throat or chest

• Symptoms of infection:

  Cough, hoarseness, or sore throat

  Fever above 100.5° Fahrenheit, or chills

  Pain in lower back or side

  Painful or difficult urination

  Urinating more often than normal

Call the doctor as soon as you can if you have any of these side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• Symptoms of nerve problems:

  Numbness, tingling, or pain in arms, legs, or face

  Dizziness or clumsiness

  Faintness or light-headedness

  Difficulty walking or loss of balance

  Unsteadiness or awkwardness

  Unusual weakness or tiredness

Are there side effects from this medicine after I finish my chemotherapy?

Vincristine may cause side effects that do not occur for months or years after you finish chemotherapy, including leukemia or decreased ability to have children. Discuss these long-term effects with your doctor if you are concerned.

These written patient information materials should be used in conjunction with verbal counseling. They are not intended as the sole source of information patients receive about their chemotherapy and other medications. The adverse effects listed are important and common ones that patients might experience; every possible adverse effect is not included. Long-term adverse effects, like secondary malignancy and infertility, are discussed for those drugs whose risk is well defined.