Vinorelbine is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat certain types of non-small cell, lung cancer already diffused in the surrounding tissues or in other parts of the body. It also finds application in the treatment of breast cancer and of some types of sarcoma.
What is Vinorelbine?
Vinorelbine is a vinca alkaloid. It works by blocking the division of cancer cells and inducing cell death. In this way it slows or stops the growth of tumors.
How should Vinorelbine be taken?
Vinorelbine is administered by medical personnel through intravenous injection.
Generally, the treatment involves one administeration a week. Its duration depends on the body's response to therapy.
Side effects associated with Vinorelbine
Among the possible adverse effects of Vinorelbine are included:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Taste changes
- Pain in the mouth and throat
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Pain, numbness, burning or tingling in hands or feet
- Muscle, joint or bone pain
- Hair loss
You should immediately contact a doctor if taking Vinorelbine triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Constipation
- Stomach ache
- Chest pains
- Irregular heartbeat
- Pallor
- Tiredness or weakness
- Bruising or bleeding
- Urticaria
- Itching
- Rash
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Vinorelbine
Before starting treatment with Vinorelbine, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergy to the active substance, its excipients or other drugs
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, citing in particular antifungals, clarithromycin, HIV drugs and nefazodone
- You suffer (or have suffered) from lung, kidney or nerve disease
- You have ever undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
