Oncovin IV

Oncovin IV Warning

This drug is to be given only into a vein (IV). It must not be injected into the spine. Fatal reactions occur if vincristine is injected into the spine.

If vincristine leaks out of the vein into the surrounding area, it may cause serious skin and tissue damage. Tell your health care professional immediately if you experience pain, irritation, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Prompt treatment of the leakage will help reduce discomfort and possible skin damage.

Oncovin IV Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Nausea, vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, bloating, stomach/abdominal pain or cramps, mouth sores, dizziness, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Vincristine may also affect the nerves in the intestines, causing gut movement to slow down. This effect can result in constipation, which in some cases may become serious. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about how you can prevent constipation (e.g., maintain a diet adequate in fiber, drink plenty of water, exercise, choose the right type of laxative with a stool softener, avoid bulk-forming laxatives). Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if you develop constipation.

Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.

Many people using this medication have serious side effects. However, your doctor has prescribed this drug because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk.

This medication commonly affects the nerves and muscles in your body. Most of these side effects go away after this medication is stopped, however some effects may persist for a long time. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:

• painful/difficult urination
• change in the amount of urine
• pain (e.g., in the joints, back, muscles, jaw)
• numbness/tingling/pain of the arms/legs
• weakness
• difficulty walking
• loss of coordination/balance
• inability to move your muscles (e.g., muscles of the face, other parts of your body)
• drooping eyelids
• hoarseness
• trouble speaking
• mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, hallucinations, confusion)

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Drug Interactions