How does this medicine work?
Vinblastine (vin-blass-teen) is a chemotherapy medicine that destroys cancer cells by interfering with a specific phase of cell life.
How is the medicine given?
Vinblastine is given into a vein (IV) in the hospital or clinic.
What are the side effects?
Expected
- low blood cell counts
Common
- hair loss
Occasional
- constipation
- muscle weakness
Rare
- skin rash
- headache
- jaw pain
- tingling of hands and feet
- loss of appetite
- nausea, vomiting
Vinblastine can cause severe tissue burn if the medicine leaks from a vein.
When should I call the clinic?
Call hematology helpline 982403210 if:
- fever or chills
- sore throat
- no stool (bowel movement) for 2 days or more
- jaw pain not helped by paracetamol
- sunburn
- bleeding
- unusual bruising
- tingling or weakness of hands or feet
- signs of allergic reaction:
- sudden rash or hives
- itching
- wheezing
- trouble breathing – call 112