| "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path - and leave a trail." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~ |
| Chemotherapy Drugs - Vincristine |
| ORPHANS OF THE CANCER STORM |
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| What other names does this drug have? Oncovin, VCR. What does it look like? Vincristine is a clear fluid after being dissolved from powder How is it given? intravenous (IV) injection. How does it works? Vincristine is an alkaloid derived from the periwinkle plant that causes cells to stop dividing. Are there any precautions? Care should be taken to prevent leakage of vincristine from the IV site. The child may need to start on a program to prevent constipation. What are the common side effects? Constipation Pain in jaw, face, back, joints, bones (may be severe) Foot drop (child has trouble lifting front part of foot) Peripheral neuropathy (numbing or tingling in fingers or toes) Extreme weakness and loss of muscle mass Blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids Hair loss (alopecia) Pain and blisters if drug leaks into tissues What are the infrequent side effects? Loss of appetite (anorexia) Nausea and vomiting Weight loss Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness Convulsions Difficulty urinating (dysuria) Rash Difficulty sleeping Itchiness For More information The British Columbia Cancer Agency has comprehensive patient and professionals info sheets about vincristine. Go back to CHEMOTHERAPY main page. Go back to GENERAL TREATMENT index. Go back to ORbIT TREATMENT index. Go back to SONGS TREATMENT index. |
| Disclaimer This information page has been prepared by an individual who does not have medical training. However its contents have been reviewed by appropriately qualified medical professionals for accuracy and quality. This page is intended for information purposes only and should not be used as a guide to diagnosis or treatment. If this information raises any concerns about your child’s condition or care protocol, discuss them with his or her paediatrician, oncologist, or other appropriate medical professional who has knowledge of the case. |