Vinblastine Injection

Tablets Capsule Injection Birth Control Device Ointments Syrups

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
  • Constipation
  • Sensory loss
  • Weight loss
  • Convulsions
  • Malnutrition
  • Skin ulceration
Disclaimer:The above information is for general understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.
Tablets Capsule Injection Birth Control Device Ointments Syrups