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Vincristine

Chemotherapy

Brand names:

Vincasar PFS®, Oncovin®

Other names:

Vincristine sulfate

Often used for:

Leukemia, lymphoma, brain tumors, kidney tumor, Wilms tumor, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, soft tissue tumor, Ewing sarcoma, other solid tumors

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What is vincristine?

Vincristine is a type of chemotherapy. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cells. This medicine may be given in the clinic or hospital. It is usually used along with other medicines.

Your care team will order certain tests to check blood counts and monitor liver and kidney function. 

Vincristine can cause tissue damage, blisters, or skin irritation if it leaks from the vein. Tell your care team if your child has pain, burning, redness, or swelling around the IV site.

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May be given as a liquid into a vein by IV 

 
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Possible side effects

  • Constipation
  • Abdominal (belly) pain
  • Jaw pain
  • Difficulty walking
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands or feet
  • Muscle pain or weakness
  • Bone or joint pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Problems chewing
  • Problems with swallowing (rare)
  • Weak or hoarse voice (rare)
  • Pain when urinating
  • Blurry vision
  • Dizziness
  • Seizures
  • Hair loss
  • Skin irritation at the IV site
  • Low sodium levels in the blood

Not all patients who take vincristine will have these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report any symptoms or side effects to your doctor or pharmacist. Find more information on side effects.

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Possible long-term or late effects

Vincristine may cause medical problems that continue or develop months or years after therapy ends. They may include peripheral neuropathy.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Your care team may suggest a stool softener or laxative for constipation.
  • While taking this medicine, your child should not eat grapefruit or Seville (bitter) oranges or drink juice or beverages containing grapefruit or Seville orange.
  • It is important that patients tell the care team if they are sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • Sexually active patients should take steps to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 6 months after treatment is complete.
  • Certain medicines can interact with vincristine. These include itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, warfarin, digoxin, phenytoin, and calcium-channel blockers (such as amlodipine, nifedipine, diltiazem, or verapamil). Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines your child takes.
  • Take steps to protect caregivers and family members from drug hazards. Avoid contact with patient body fluids as instructed. Patient body fluids can contain the drug for 48 hours after it is given.

Learn more about vincristine

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.