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Vinorelbine

This page provides concise information about the medication vinorelbine, including its indications, dosage and administration guidelines, mechanism of action, associated brands with their strengths, warnings, and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Vinorelbine is a chemotherapy medication that was approved to be used in 1994.

Mechanism of Action of Vinorelbine

Vinorelbine functions by impeding the microtubule structures within the cell. These structures play a crucial role in facilitating the division and multiplication of cancer cells. By inhibiting these structures, the medication slows down the growth and proliferation of cancer cells.

Uses of Vinorelbine

  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
  • Breast cancer

Vinorelbine Drug administaration and Dosage available

Vinorelbine is provided as an infusion solution, with available doses of 10mg and 50mg.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Vinorelbine

Warnings

Before initiating Vinorelbine treatment, disclose to your doctor any history of chest pain, heart attack, or liver issues. If you’ve undergone radiation therapy, especially involving the liver, notify your doctor. Be vigilant and report symptoms such as fever, chills, joint pain, or cough, as they could indicate an infection. Provide comprehensive information about any non-prescription medications used during Vinorelbine treatment. If you’ve received or plan to receive vaccinations, communicate this to your doctor before starting the medication. Regular blood cell counts will be conducted before and throughout Vinorelbine treatment.

Precautions

Both men and women of childbearing age should employ reliable contraceptive methods while undergoing Vinorelbine treatment. It is crucial to continue effective contraception for up to 3 months after the final dose. Refrain from using this medication if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy. Contact your doctor promptly if pregnancy occurs during Vinorelbine treatment. Breastfeeding is contraindicated during Vinorelbine use, and if a breastfeeding mother requires this medication, breastfeeding should be discontinued. Due to potential impacts on driving and machine operation, it is advised to abstain from such activities while undergoing Vinorelbine treatment.

Side Effects

Common side effects that may manifest during Vinorelbine treatment comprise nausea, vomiting, decreased blood cell counts, weakness, hair loss, throat or mouth swelling or sores, injection site reactions (redness, burning pain, vein discoloration), jaw, joint, and muscle pain, fatigue, and diarrhea.

Word Of Advice

Due to potential effects on fertility, male patients should seek advice on sperm conservation before undergoing treatment with Vinorelbine. Both men and women are advised to employ effective contraception throughout the course of Vinorelbine treatment. It is crucial to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before initiating treatment with this medicine.

Frequently Asked Question

No, Vinorelbine is not recommended for usage in children.
Vinorelbine may cause fertility problems, hence discuss any fertility issues you have with your doctor before beginning treatment with this medicine.
It is unsafe to become a father during and three months after treatment. Hence, effective contraceptives must be used, and get advice on sperm conservation before Vinoreline treatment. Because it may alter male fertility.
Effective contraception is to be used for up to 3 months after treatment with Vinorelbine.
Vinorelbine treats nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and breast cancer. It belongs to the group of medications called Vinca alkaloids.
No, you should not vaccinate with “live” or “attenuated” vaccinations. Hence, without consulting your healthcare provider, this medication should not be taken with any vaccinations.

References

  1. Pierre Fabre Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Nov 2022] [ Accessed on 1st Dec 2022], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3912.pdf
  2. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Cytotoxic agents, 12th edition, 2011, 1706.
  3. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 865.
  4. Pierre Fabre Medicament, US Food and Drug administration, [Revised on Jan 2022] [ Accessed on 1st Dec 2022],
  5. Anna Capasso; Vinorelbine in Cancer therapy; Cancer Drug Targets; Published on July 2012; Accessed on 01/12/2022; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22594474/
  6. Ying-Chun Xu et al; A systematic review of vinorelbine for the treatment of breast cancer; The Breast Journal; Published on April 2013; Accessed on 01/12/2022;

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.