Uses of undefined

Vinblastine is used to treat Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, testicular cancer, breast cancer, and kaposi’s sarcoma.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

The medicine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. Vinblastine is given as an injection into a vein (intravenous infusion) over a period of 30 minutes, once a day for up to 5 days. The dose, route of administration, and frequency will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

It is not recommended to take this injection if you are allergic to Vinblastine or any of its ingredients. This injection should be used with caution in patients with a history of nerve damage, respiratory disease, or gastrointestinal disorders. Special care is needed if you are taking other medicines, as some could interact with this drug. For example the use of erythromycin may increase the side effects of this drug. In case if you are undergoing radiotherapy in the liver area, your doctor will delay giving you this medicine.During the treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your white blood cell counts, platelets, blood sugar, electrolytes and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. This medicine has the potential to cause heart problems when combined with other anticancer medicine like bleomycin or cisplatin.

Precautions

As there is a risk of birth defects, women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception methods during treatment with this drug. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding women, you may plan to have a baby or think you may be pregnant. Please consult with your doctor for more advice before taking this medicine. Do not drive or use machines if you experience any side effects which may lessen your ability to do so. It is advised not to use this injection if you are allergic to this drug or any of its ingredients, in case you have a bacterial infection which is not under control, and if your blood tests show that you do not have enough WBC to fight infection. This drug may lead to changes in your blood cells, so your doctor will take blood samples to monitor for these and also to check how well your liver is working. Inform to the doctor if you have been diagnosed with liver disorders, heart failure, high blood cholesterol levels, or hypertension before starting this treatment.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Vinblastine are tiredness, diarrhoea, hair loss, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Some serious side effects also include swelling or pain at the injection site. If you experience any allergic or unusual reactions after taking this medicine, report to your doctor immediately.

Word Of Advice

This medicine can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. Patients should take steps to avoid contact with sick people and practise good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently. Patients should also avoid activities that could increase their risk of injury or bleeding, such as contact sports or using sharp objects. This drug makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight, leading to sunburn, blistering, or skin discoloration. It's important to use sunscreen and protective clothing while being exposed to sunlight. It is recommended to limit your alcohol intake or avoid it altogether while taking Vinblastine injection. This medication increases the chances of bruising, so it is important to be careful when using sharp objects or participating in activities that may result in injury.

Frequently Asked Question

• Can I drink alcohol while taking a Vinblastine injection?
• It is generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Vinblastine injection, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and liver damage.

• Does Vinblastine injection cause hair loss?
• Hair loss from vinblastine is usually temporary, and hair growth typically resumes after treatment is completed.

• What happens to cancer cells when given vinblastine?
• Vinblastine works by stopping the cancer cells from separating into 2 new cells. So it blocks the growth of cancer.

• What are the precautions of vinblastine?
• Check with your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising, black stools, blood in urine, or pinpoint red spots on your skin. Be careful when using sharp objects or participating in activities that may result in injury.

• How is vinblastine excreted?
• Vinblastine is primarily metabolised in the liver, and its elimination from the body is mainly through the bile and faeces. Only a small amount of the drug is eliminated through the urine.

• What are the side effects of vinblastine on skin?
• This drug can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, leading to sunburn, blistering, or skin discoloration. It's important to use sunscreen and protective clothing while being exposed to sunlight.