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Vincristine is chemotherapy that is given as a treatment for some types of cancer including leukaemia, lymphoma, breast, and lung cancer. This section describes vincristine, how it is given and some of its possible side effects. It should ideally be read with CancerBACUP's general information on chemotherapy, which gives more information and advice.
You will see your doctor regularly while you have this treatment so that he or she can monitor the effects of the chemotherapy. This section should help you to discuss any queries about your treatment and its side effects with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse, as they are in the best position to help and advise you.
Vincristine is a clear fluid after being dissolved from powder.
Vincristine may be given:
Each person's reaction to chemotherapy is unique. Some people have very few side effects, while others may experience more. The side effects described in this section will not affect everyone who is given vincristine, and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.
We have outlined the most common and the less common side effects, so that you can be aware of them if they occur. However, we have not included those that are very rare and therefore extremely unlikely to affect you. If you notice any effects which you think may be due to the drug, but which are not listed here, please discuss them with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.
Abdominal cramps and constipation It usually helps to drink plenty of fluids, eat a high fibre diet and take gentle exercise. Sometimes you may need to take medicines to stimulate your bowel. These can be prescribed by your doctor.
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet This is due to the effect of vincristine on nerves and is known as peripheral neuropathy. You may also notice that you have difficulty doing up buttons or similar fiddly tasks. Tell your doctor if you notice any numbness or tingling in your hands or feet. This usually improves slowly a few months after the treatment is finished. Very rarely other nerves may be affected (such as the neck nerves) which may cause pain in the jaw or double vision.
Hair loss Hair may thin, or may occasionally be lost completely. If this happens it usually begins about 3-4 weeks after starting treatment, although it may occur earlier. It is temporary, and the hair will regrow once the treatment is finished.
Temporary taste changes A dietitian or specialist nurse at your hospital can give advice.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Temporary reduction in the production of blood cells by the bone marrow This can result in anaemia leading to tiredness; an increased risk of bruising or bleeding and an increased risk of infection. The number of cells in your blood may begin to reduce from about seven days after the treatment has been given and usually reaches its lowest point at 10-14 days after the chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily and will usually return to normal within 21-28 days.
The extent to which your blood cells are reduced depends on the dose of chemotherapy you have and which other chemotherapy drugs, if any, are given in combination. Your doctor can advise you how likely it is that your blood cells will be lowered by the chemotherapy. Your blood will be checked regularly to see how well your bone marrow is working.
If your temperature goes above 38°C (100.5°F); you develop any unexplained bruising or bleeding; or you suddenly feel unwell, even if you have a normal temperature, contact your doctor or the hospital straight away.
If vincristine leaks into the tissue around the vein it can damage the tissue in that area. If you notice any stinging or burning around the vein while the drug is being given, or any leakage of fluid from the cannula site it is very important that you tell the doctor or nurse.
If the area around the injection site becomes red or swollen at any time you should either tell the doctor or nurse on the ward, or if you are at home, ring the clinic or ward and ask to speak to the doctor or nurse.
Some medicines can be harmful to take when you are having chemotherapy. Always tell your doctor about any other medicine you are taking.
Fertility Your ability to become pregnant or father a child may be affected by taking this drug. Discuss this with your doctor before starting treatment.
Contraception It is not advisable to become pregnant or father a child while taking vincristine, as vincristine may harm the developing foetus. It is important to use effective contraception whilst taking this drug, and for at least a few months afterwards. Again, discuss this with your doctor.
This section has been compiled using information from a number of reliable sources including;
For futher references, please see general bibliography.