Uses

Indicated for the treatment of acute leukemia. Also used in combination chemotherapy regimens for Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphomas, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, and Wilms' tumor.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with the demyelinating form of Charcot–Marie–Tooth syndrome. Must not be given intrathecally as it is uniformly fatal by that route.

Side effects

The most common adverse reaction is alopecia. The most troublesome reactions are neuromuscular: peripheral neuropathy, paresthesias, loss of deep tendon reflexes, and ataxia. Constipation, paralytic ileus, cranial nerve palsies, and SIADH may also occur.

Warnings

Must be administered by experienced oncology personnel only via the intravenous route; intrathecal injection is fatal. Extravasation causes severe local tissue necrosis. Neurotoxicity is dose-limiting; monitor patients for peripheral neuropathy. Refrigerate between 2°C and 8°C; protect from light.

How it works

Vincristine is a vinca alkaloid that inhibits microtubule formation in the mitotic spindle, arresting dividing cells at the metaphase stage. This prevents chromosome segregation and halts cell division, particularly in rapidly proliferating malignant cells.

Storage

Refrigerate between 2°C and 8°C (36°F–46°F). Discard unused solution. Protect from light. Store upright.