English | Spanish
Vincristine ( vin-KRIS-teen ) (Oncovin®) What is this medication used for? Vincristine is used to treat leukemias, lymphomas, brain tumors, and solid tumors.
• Drooping of the eyelids (ptosis) • Blurred or double vision • Voice hoarseness or vocal cord paralysis
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given?
• Seizures • Dizziness • Paralysis • Difficulty with balance • Difficulty urinating or retaining urine Special instructions: • This medicine can cause irritation or burning if it leaks out of the vein. Tell the person giving the medicine immediately if burning or pain is felt while the medicine is being given. If the skin becomes red or swollen, call a healthcare provider. If there is a blister or scab, do not pop or pick it. • A stool softener or laxative may be needed to prevent or treat constipation caused by vincristine. Increasing fiber and fluids also can help prevent or treat constipation. • Continue regular activities as much as possible.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • Constipation (hard stools) • Hair loss (alopecia) • Stomach (abdominal) pain • Nausea and vomiting • Numbness, tingling, or pain in the fingers and toes (peripheral neuropathies) • Clumsiness or unusual walk (gait), and being more likely to fall • Jaw pain • Loss of deep tendon reflexes, (wrist or foot drop), difficulty lifting front of foot or difficulty lifting wrists What are the less common side effects?
• Headache • Weakness
• Burning, pain, or tissue damage in the skin around where the medicine is given if it leaks out of the vein (extravasation) • Mild, brief decrease in blood counts (white blood cells, hemoglobin, or platelets • Muscle pain
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
Powered by FlippingBook