Vincristine
Cytostatic · Vinca alkaloid
Indications
Leukaemia and other malignant conditions.
Dosage
Adults & Elderly: Antineoplastic (typical dosages): IV: 0.4-1.4 mg/m², may repeat every wk or 0.4-0.5 mg/day continuous infusion for 4 days every 4 wk or 0.25-0.5 mg/m²/d continuous infusion for 5 days every 4 wk. Also refer individual protocols for dosages. Neuroblastoma: IV continuous infusion with doxorubicin: 1 mg/m²/day for 72 hr. Children: <10 kg or BSA<1 m²: Initial therapy: 0.05 mg/kg once wkly then titrate dose; max single dose: 2 mg. Children: >10 kg or BSA>1 m²: 1-2 mg/m², may repeat once wkly for 3-6 wk; max single dose: 2 mg.
Administration
IV: Usually administered as slow (1-2 min) push or short (10-15 min) infusion; 24 hours continuous infusions are occasionally used. Reconstitution: Solutions for IV infusion may be mixed in NS or D5W. Compatibility: Stable in D5W, LR, NS. Stability: Store refrigerated at 2°C-8°C (36°F-46°F). Protect from light.
Adverse Effects
Alopecia, hypotension, hypertension, seizures, headache, rash, hyperuricaemia, constipation, GI upsets.
Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)
Pregnancy: Positive evidence of risk: Use only when no safer alternative exists for a serious problem. Lactation: Contraindicated or not recommended. Contraindications: Patients with demyelinating form of Charcot- Marie- tooth syndrome. Precautions: Impaired hepatic function, elderly, pre-existing neuromuscular disease.
Interactions
Digoxin, CYP3A4 enzyme inhibitors, mitomycin C.
Advice to Patient
This medication is administered by infusion. Report immediately redness/swelling/pain/burning at infusion site. Contact prescriber if there is fever, chills, sore throat, burning on urination, fatigue, muscle pain or weakness, jaw pain or weakness, numbness or tingling in toes or fingers, unusual bruising or bleeding, dark coloured stool, blood in stool, urine or mouth, difficulty in breathing, skin rash, skin itching, unrelieved mouth sores. Take sufficient amount of fluids (2-3 litres per day) to maintain hydration, unless restricted by the prescriber. Take small, frequent meals to maintain good nutritional status. Avoid highly crowded places to prevent infection. Do not get vaccinated without consulting prescriber. Avoid direct sunlight, wear sunscreen, proper eyewear and protective clothing to prevent photosensitivity. Using soft toothbrush, cotton swabs, waxed dental floss, regular…
Pharmacokinetics
In pediatric patients, significant interpatient and intrapatient variability has been reported. Metabolism: Extensively hepatic. Half-life elimination: Terminal: 85 hours (range: 19 to 155 hours). Excretion: Feces (approx. 80%); urine (10% to 20%; <1% as unchanged drug).
Brands with this active ingredient
Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.