Generic name: Vinblastine - injection
Brand name: Velban, Velsar
Description
Vinblastine is a drug used to treat certain types of cancer. Vinblastine is
available under the trade names Velban and Velsar, and may also be referred
to as vinblastine sulfate. It is a naturally occurring compound that is
extracted from periwinkle plants. It belongs to a group of chemicals called
alkaloids. Vinblastine prevents the formation of microtubules in cells. One
of the roles of microtubules is to aid in the replication of cells. By
disrupting this function, vinblastine inhibits cell replication, including
the replication the cancer cells.
Uses
- It is used in treatment of cancer to slow or stop the growth of
cancer cells.
- Helps in removing drug from body and some side effect in kidneys
- Vinblastine is a cytotoxic drug that arrests cell growth at the
metaphase. Its actions are more pronounced on the rapidly dividing cell
than on the normal cell.
- Vinblastine is excreted slowly in urine and in faeces via the bile.
- Vinblastine is rapidly cleared from the blood and distributed into
the body tissues. It crosses the blood-brain barrier poorly and does not
appear in the CSF in therapeutic concentrations
- Vinblastine is extensively metabolised by the liver. It is converted
to desacetyl-vinblastine which is more active on a weight basis than the
parent compound.
How to use
This medication is a potent medication. Use it exactly as prescribed. Tell
your doctor immediately if you experience burning or redness, pain at the
place where injected. It inhibits microtubule formation in the mitotic
spindle thus arresting cell division in metaphase. As vinblastine is
administered intravenously, the site of infusion and surrounding tissue
should be monitored for signs of inflammation and irritation.
Safety tips
If vinblastine is accidentally leaked, the skin or muscle can be severely damaged.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you feel pain or irritation at the
injection site.
- Fatalities have occurred when vinblastine was injected into the
spine. This drug is for intravenous (IV) use only.
- While taking this medication drink plenty of fluids.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following
symptoms:
- Joint pain
- Swelling of feet or lower legs
- Black/ tarry stools
- Fever
- Cough
- Painful or difficulty in urination
- Dizziness
- Sores in mouth or lips
Side effects
Some common effects are :
- Muscle pain
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Temporary hair loss
- Lowers resistance power
- Difficulty in walking
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- Constipation
- Sensory loss
- Weight loss
- Convulsions
- Malnutrition
- Skin ulceration
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Disclaimer:The above information is for general
understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical
practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.