Vincristine sulphate is a chemotherapy medication containing the active constituent vincristine sulphate. It belongs to a class of drugs called vinca alkaloids, which inhibit the growth of cancer cells. This medication treats blood, head, breast, neck, kidney, bone, or lung cancers. It treats rhabdomyosarcoma (cancer that affects muscle tissue) and neuroblastoma (cancer that develops from immature nerve cells). It may also treat multiple myeloma (cancer of plasma cells), thyroid cancer, and a blood disorder known as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Cancer is a disorder in which cells multiply uncontrolled and abnormally.
Vincristine sulphate was first approved by the FDA in 1963 for treating acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Since then, it has received additional approvals for treating other types of cancer. Like all chemotherapy drugs, it can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, hair loss, and fatigue. Patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks of treatment with their doctor.

Vincristine sulphate is used to treat various types of cancer, including blood cancers such as acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), head and neck cancers, breast cancer, kidney cancer, bone cancer, and lung cancer. It is also used to treat idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (a condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys platelets cells) and multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells). In addition, this medication is used to treat rhabdomyosarcoma (cancer that forms in the body's soft tissues) and neuroblastoma (cancer that develops in certain nerve cells). It may also be used to treat thyroid cancer.

A healthcare professional usually administers vincristine sulphate intravenous injection (IV) in a hospital or clinical setting. It should not be taken orally or applied topically to the skin. If you miss a dose, do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Vincristine sulphate can cause a range of side effects, which may vary depending on the individual patient and their treatment regimen. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite, fatigue, and hair loss. Some patients may also experience nerve damage, which can cause symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hands and feet. Other potential side effects include low blood cell counts, fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms that may indicate an infection or other complications. Rarely, this medication can cause serious side effects such as allergic reactions, seizures, or liver damage.

There are several important warnings associated with the use of vincristine sulphate. First and foremost, this medication should only be used under the close supervision of a qualified healthcare provider because it can be toxic if not administered properly. It can also cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects like nerve and liver damage. Sometimes this medication can cause reduced blood cell count, which can cause anemia and thrombocytopenia. Patients should be aware that this medication increases the risk of infection and causes rashes and skin problems when it comes to the sun.

Several precautions should be taken when using vincristine sulphate. First, this medication should not be used in patients who are allergic to it or any of its components. Patients with pre-existing nerve damage or other conditions that affect nerve function may be at increased risk for nerve damage, and caution should be taken when using this medication in these patients. Patients require careful monitoring for any signs of infection, bleeding, or anemia.  Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this medication. Women of reproductive age should use effective contraception while taking this medication to avoid contraception. You should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking before starting treatment.

If you are receiving vincristine sulphate, it's important to be proactive in managing your treatment and monitoring your symptoms. Keep a close line of communication with your healthcare provider and report any concerns or side effects as soon as possible. Avoid getting pregnant and breastfeeding during treatment. Take steps to care for yourself physically and emotionally during treatment, and seek support from loved ones and professionals as needed. Maintain a healthy and balanced diet during treatment to support your overall health and well-being. By being informed and engaged in your treatment, you can help ensure the best possible outcomes and manage any potential risks or complications.

1. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Cytotoxic agents, 12th edition, 2011, 1707.
2. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 865.
3. Hospira UK Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on March 2022] [ Accessed on 18 April 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1501.pdf
4. Hospira, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on July 2013] [ Accessed on 18th April 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/071484s042lbl.pdf
5. Jan Skubnik et al; Vincristine in Combination Therapy of Cancer: Emerging Trends in Clinics; Biology; Published on 31/08/2021;  Accessed on 18th April 2023; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8468923/

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.