VINCRISTINE - INJECTION (Oncovin, Vincasar) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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GENERIC NAME: VINCRISTINE - INJECTION (vin-CRISS-teen)

BRAND NAME(S): Oncovin, Vincasar

WARNING: If vincristine accidentally leaks into surrounding tissue, the skin and/or muscle may be severely damaged. Notify your doctor immediately if you feel pain or irritation at the injection site. Fatalities have occurred when vincristine was injected into the spine. This drug is for intravenous (IV) use only.

USES: Vincristine is one of a large group of drugs known as "antineoplastics"; these drugs are also known as cancer drugs, chemotherapy, or "chemo". They are used in the treatment of various cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. A combination of different types of cancer drugs will often be used to achieve a greater effect and minimize side effects.

HOW TO USE: This is a potent medication. Use it exactly as prescribed. Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience pain, burning or redness at the place where injected. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects. Check with your doctor before using any medication for stomach cramps or constipation.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of weight, diarrhea, rash or bloating are common side effects. Not eating before your treatment may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Temporary hair loss is another common side effect; normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. Contact your doctor, without delay, if you experience any of the following symptoms: constipation, stomach cramps, lack of sweating, painful or difficult urination, decrease or increase in urination, bed-wetting, joint pain, lower back or side pain, blurred or double vision, difficulty walking, headache, pain in jaw or testicles, pain or numbness in fingers or toes, nervousness, trouble sleeping, confusion, dizziness, fever or chills, hallucinations, loss of appetite, cough, unusual bleeding or bruising, black, tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, small red spots on the skin. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.