What are vinca alkaloids. How do they work in cancer treatment. What are the common side effects of vinca alkaloids. How are vinca alkaloids administered. Which cancers are treated with vinca alkaloids. How can patients manage side effects of vinca alkaloid treatment.

Understanding Vinca Alkaloids: A Powerful Class of Chemotherapy Drugs

Vinca alkaloids are a class of chemotherapy drugs derived from the Madagascar periwinkle plant (Catharanthus roseus). These compounds have been pivotal in cancer treatment since their discovery in the 1950s. The most well-known vinca alkaloids include vincristine, vinblastine, vinorelbine, and vindesine.

These drugs work by interfering with cell division, specifically by binding to tubulin proteins and preventing the formation of microtubules. This action halts the process of mitosis, effectively stopping cancer cells from multiplying.

How do vinca alkaloids differ from other chemotherapy drugs?

Unlike many other chemotherapy agents that damage DNA directly, vinca alkaloids target the cell’s structural components. This unique mechanism of action makes them effective against a wide range of cancers and also contributes to their specific side effect profile.

The Mechanism of Action: How Vinca Alkaloids Combat Cancer

Vinca alkaloids are classified as antimicrotubule agents. They bind to tubulin, a protein essential for forming microtubules during cell division. By disrupting this process, vinca alkaloids prevent cancer cells from separating into two new cells, effectively halting tumor growth.

What happens at the cellular level when vinca alkaloids are introduced?

When vinca alkaloids enter a cell, they:

1. Bind to tubulin molecules
2. Prevent microtubule formation
3. Disrupt the mitotic spindle
4. Arrest cell division in metaphase
5. Induce cell death (apoptosis)

This process not only stops cancer cell proliferation but can also lead to the shrinkage of existing tumors.

Common Uses of Vinca Alkaloids in Cancer Treatment

Vinca alkaloids have proven effective against various types of cancer. Their versatility makes them valuable components of many chemotherapy regimens.

Which types of cancer are most commonly treated with vinca alkaloids?

Vinca alkaloids are used to treat:

• Leukemias (especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia)
• Lymphomas (Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s)
• Neuroblastoma
• Rhabdomyosarcoma
• Wilms’ tumor
• Brain tumors
• Testicular cancer
• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer (particularly small cell lung cancer)

The specific vinca alkaloid used depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and other individual patient factors.

Administration Methods: How Vinca Alkaloids Are Given to Patients

Vinca alkaloids are typically administered intravenously, meaning they are injected directly into the bloodstream. This method ensures that the drug is distributed throughout the body to target cancer cells wherever they may be located.

What are the common methods of administering vinca alkaloids?

Patients may receive vinca alkaloids through:

1. A peripheral intravenous line (IV) in the arm or hand
2. A central line, such as a PICC line or port-a-cath, for longer-term treatment
3. Rarely, as an intrathecal injection (into the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord) for certain brain cancers

The frequency and duration of treatment depend on the specific cancer type, stage, and overall treatment plan. Patients typically receive vinca alkaloids as part of a chemotherapy cycle, which includes periods of treatment followed by rest periods to allow the body to recover.

Side Effects of Vinca Alkaloids: What Patients Can Expect

While vinca alkaloids are effective cancer treatments, they can cause a range of side effects. The severity and types of side effects can vary depending on the specific drug, dosage, and individual patient factors.

What are the most common side effects of vinca alkaloid treatment?

Common side effects include:

• Increased risk of infection due to lowered white blood cell count
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in fingers and toes)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Changes in eyesight
• Bladder problems
• Muscle or bone pain

It’s crucial for patients to report any side effects to their healthcare team promptly. Many side effects can be managed effectively with proper care and medication.

Managing Side Effects: Strategies for Patients and Caregivers

While side effects of vinca alkaloids can be challenging, there are numerous strategies to help manage them and improve quality of life during treatment.

How can patients mitigate the side effects of vinca alkaloid treatment?

Here are some strategies for managing common side effects:

1. Infection risk: Practice good hygiene, avoid crowds, and report any signs of infection immediately.
2. Hair loss: Consider wigs, scarves, or hats. Remember that hair typically grows back after treatment ends.
3. Peripheral neuropathy: Report symptoms early. Physical therapy and certain medications may help.
4. Fatigue: Balance rest with light exercise. Prioritize activities and ask for help when needed.
5. Nausea and vomiting: Take anti-nausea medications as prescribed. Eat small, frequent meals and stay hydrated.
6. Constipation: Increase fiber intake, stay hydrated, and use laxatives as recommended by your doctor.
7. Eye problems: Report any vision changes promptly. Avoid driving if vision is affected.

Always consult with your healthcare team before starting any new medications or supplements to manage side effects, as these may interact with your cancer treatment.

Monitoring and Follow-up: Ensuring Safe and Effective Treatment

Close monitoring is essential during vinca alkaloid treatment to ensure its effectiveness and manage any potential complications.

What types of tests and follow-ups are typical during vinca alkaloid treatment?

Patients undergoing vinca alkaloid therapy can expect:

• Regular blood tests to check blood cell counts and organ function
• Physical examinations to assess overall health and side effects
• Imaging studies (such as CT scans or MRIs) to evaluate tumor response
• Neurological exams to check for signs of peripheral neuropathy
• Eye exams if vision changes occur

The frequency of these tests and follow-ups will depend on the individual treatment plan and any side effects experienced. Patients should keep all scheduled appointments and report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.

Future Directions: Advancements in Vinca Alkaloid Research

Research into vinca alkaloids continues to evolve, with scientists exploring ways to enhance their effectiveness and reduce side effects.

What are some promising areas of research in vinca alkaloid therapy?

Current research focuses on:

1. Developing new synthetic analogues with improved efficacy and reduced toxicity
2. Exploring combination therapies to enhance anti-cancer effects
3. Investigating targeted delivery methods to reduce systemic side effects
4. Studying mechanisms of drug resistance and ways to overcome it
5. Exploring the potential of vinca alkaloids in treating non-cancer conditions

These advancements hold promise for improving outcomes and quality of life for patients undergoing vinca alkaloid treatment in the future.

Vinca alkaloids remain a cornerstone of cancer treatment, offering hope to patients with a wide range of malignancies. While side effects can be challenging, ongoing research and improved management strategies continue to enhance the therapeutic potential of these powerful drugs. As with any cancer treatment, patients should work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that balances effectiveness with quality of life considerations.

Vincristine | Cancer information | Cancer Research UK

Vincristine is a type of chemotherapy. It is a treatment for a number of different cancer types. You usually have vincristine with other cancer drugs.

How does vincristine work?

Vincristine is a chemotherapy drug that belongs to a group of drugs called vinca alkaloids. 

Vincristine works by stopping the cancer cells from separating into 2 new cells. So, it stops the growth of the cancer.

How you have vincristine?

You have vincristine into your bloodstream (intravenously). 

You might have the treatment through a drip into your arm or hand. A nurse puts a small tube (a cannula) into one of your veins and connects the drip to it.

Or you might need a central line. This is a long plastic tube that gives the drugs into a large vein, either in your chest or through a vein in your arm. It stays in while you’re having treatment, which may be for a few months.

How often do you have vincristine?

You have chemotherapy as cycles of treatment. This means you have the cancer drug or drugs and then a rest to allow your body to recover. Your treatment plan depends on which cancer you have. Your doctor or nurse will talk to you about this, so you know what to expect.

Tests

You have blood tests before and during your treatment. They check your levels of blood cells and other substances in the blood. They also check how well your liver and kidneys are working.

What are the side effects of vincristine?

How often and how severe the side effects are can vary from person to person. They also depend on what other treatments you’re having. 

When to contact your team

Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist will go through the possible side effects. They will monitor you during treatment and check how you are at your appointments. Contact your advice line as soon as possible if:

• you have severe side effects 
• your side effects aren’t getting any better
• your side effects are getting worse

Early treatment can help manage side effects better.  

Contact your advice line immediately if you have signs of infection, including a temperature above 37.5C or below 36C.

We haven’t listed all the side effects here. Remember it is very unlikely that you will have all of these side effects. But you might have some of them at the same time.

You might have one or more of these side effects. They include:

Increased risk of getting an infection

Increased risk of getting an infection is due to a drop in white blood cells. Symptoms include a change in temperature, aching muscles, headaches, feeling cold and shivery and generally unwell. You might have other symptoms depending on where the infection is.

Infections can sometimes be life threatening. You should contact your advice line urgently if you think you have an infection. 

Hair loss

You could lose all your hair. This includes your eyelashes, eyebrows, underarm, leg and sometimes pubic hair. Your hair will usually grow back once treatment has finished but it is likely to be softer.

Numbness or tingling in fingers or toes

Numbness or tingling in fingers or toes is often temporary and can improve after you finish treatment. Tell your healthcare team if you’re finding it difficult to walk or complete fiddly tasks such as doing up buttons. 

Tiredness and weakness (fatigue) during and after treatment 

Tiredness and weakness (fatigue) can happen during and after treatment. Doing gentle exercises each day can keep your energy up. Don’t push yourself, rest when you start to feel tired and ask others for help.

Feeling or being sick

Feeling or being sick is usually well controlled with anti sickness medicines. Avoiding fatty or fried foods, eating small meals and snacks, drinking plenty of water, and relaxation techniques can all help.

It is important to take anti sickness medicines as prescribed even if you don’t feel sick. It is easier to prevent sickness rather than treat it once it has started.

Constipation

Constipation is easier to sort out if you treat it early. Drink plenty of fluids and eat as much fresh fruit and vegetables as you can. Try to take gentle exercise, such as walking. Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you are constipated for more than 3 days. They can prescribe a laxative.

Also tell your doctor about any changes to your bowel habits.

Tummy (abdominal) pain

Tell your treatment team if you have this. They can check the cause and give you medicine to help. 

Changes to your eyesight

Tell the team looking after you if you notice any changes or have pain. This is usually rare and temporary. 

Problems with your bladder

Let your doctor know if you are having this. Let your treatment team know if you are having problems passing urine or have pain.

Muscle or bone pain

You might feel some pain from your muscles and bones, including pain in your jaw or back. Speak to your doctor or nurse about what painkillers you can take to help with this.

Sore mouth

You might get a sore mouth and mouth ulcers.  It may be painful to swallow drinks or food. You will have mouth washes to keep your mouth healthy.

You can have painkillers to reduce the soreness. Take them half an hour before meals to make eating easier.

Swelling and pain at the drip site

Tell your nurse straight away if you have any pain, redness, swelling or leaking around your drip site.

Allergic reaction

A small number of people have an allergic reaction while having this treatment. Symptoms can include a rash, shortness of breath, redness or swelling of the face, feeling hot, dizziness, and a sudden need to pass urine.

Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you have any of these symptoms or feel unwell at all while you are having the treatment or shortly afterwards.

Hearing changes

You might have some hearing loss, especially with high pitched sounds. Tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any changes.

These changes are due to damage to one of the cranial nerves. You may also have difficulty with balance including dizziness, feeling like the room is spinning (vertigo) and uncontrolled eye movement (nystagmus).

Loss of appetite and weight loss

You might not feel like eating and may lose weight. It is important to eat as much as you can. Eating several small meals and snacks throughout the day can be easier to manage. You can talk to a dietitian if you are concerned about your appetite or weight loss. 

Skin rash

Tell your doctor or nurse if you have a skin rash. They can prescribe medicine to soothe your skin.

Headaches

Let your doctor or nurse know if you have headaches. They can give you painkillers.

Diarrhoea

This is a rare side effect.

Contact your advice line if you have diarrhoea, such as if you’ve had 4 or more loose watery poos (stools) in 24 hours. Or if you can’t drink to replace the lost fluid. Or if it carries on for more than 3 days.

Your doctor may give you anti diarrhoea medicine to take home with you after treatment. Eat less fibre, avoid raw fruits, fruit juice, cereals and vegetables, and drink plenty to replace the fluid lost.

Heart problems

This includes coronary heart disease and a heart attack. This is a possible side effect if you have had radiotherapy to part of the chest before (the mediastinum), and you have had vincristine with other chemotherapy drugs. It is not clear if this side effect is directly caused by the vincristine.

Tell your doctor or nurse immediately, or call 999, if you have symptoms of a heart attack. These include: chest pain, pain spreading from the chest to your arms, jaw, back or tummy, feeling dizzy, sweaty, short of breath, coughing or wheezing, being sick or an overwhelming feeling of anxiety.

Bruising, bleeding gums or nose bleeds

This is due to a drop in the number of platelets in your blood. These blood cells help the blood to clot when we cut ourselves. You may have nosebleeds or bleeding gums after brushing your teeth. Or you may have lots of tiny red spots or bruises on your arms or legs (known as petechiae).

Low sodium levels

You may develop low sodium levels in your blood. This is due to your body making too much anti diuretic hormone. This means your body holds on to too much water. As your blood becomes more dilute, your levels of sodium drop. This is rare, but you have regular blood tests to check for this.

Fits (seizures)

Tell your doctor or nurse straight away if this happens.

Muscle weakness

Your muscles may get weaker. This can make it difficult to walk and cause difficulty with your speech.

Changes in blood pressure

During treatment, your blood pressure may be lower or higher than normal. Tell your nurse if you feel dizzy or faint. Or if you have headaches, nosebleeds, blurred or double vision, or shortness of breath.

Your blood pressure usually goes back to normal while you are on treatment or when treatment ends.

Second cancers

There is a small risk that you may get a second cancer some years after this treatment. Your doctor will discuss this with you.

Coping with side effects

We have more information about side effects and tips on how to cope with them.

What else do I need to know?

Other medicines, foods and drink

Cancer drugs can interact with some other medicines and herbal products. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any medicines you are taking. This includes vitamins, herbal supplements and over the counter remedies.

Pregnancy and contraception

This treatment might harm a baby developing in the womb. It is important not to become pregnant or father a child while you’re having treatment and for a few months afterwards.

Talk to your doctor or nurse about effective contraception before starting treatment. Let them know straight away if you or your partner falls pregnant while having treatment.

Fertility

You may not be able to become pregnant or father a child after treatment with this drug. Talk to your doctor before starting treatment if you think you may want to have a baby in the future.

Men might be able to store sperm before starting treatment. And women might be able to store eggs or ovarian tissue. But these services are not available in every hospital, so you would need to ask your doctor about this.    

Breastfeeding

Don’t breastfeed during this treatment because the drug may come through into your breast milk.

Treatment for other conditions

Always tell other doctors, nurses, pharmacists or dentists that you’re having this treatment. For example, if you need treatment for anything else, including teeth problems.

Immunisations

Don’t have immunisations with live vaccines while you’re having treatment and for up to 12 months afterwards. The length of time depends on the treatment you are having. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how long you should avoid live vaccinations.

In the UK, live vaccines include rubella, mumps, measles, BCG, yellow fever and one of the shingles vaccines called Zostavax.

You can have:

• other vaccines, but they might not give you as much protection as usual
• the flu vaccine (as an injection)
• the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine – talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best time to have it in relation to your cancer treatment

Members of your household who are aged 5 years or over are also able to have the COVID-19 vaccine. This is to help lower your risk of getting COVID-19 while having cancer treatment and until your immune system recovers from treatment.

Contact with others who have had immunisations – You can be in contact with other people who have had live vaccines as injections. Avoid close contact with people who have recently had live vaccines taken by mouth (oral vaccines) such as the oral typhoid vaccine. Sometimes people who have had the live shingles vaccine can get a shingles type rash. If this happens they should keep the area covered.

If your immune system is severely weakened, you should avoid contact with children who have had the flu vaccine as a nasal spray as this is a live vaccine. This is for 2 weeks following their vaccination.

Babies have the live rotavirus vaccine. The virus is in the baby’s poo for about 2 weeks and could make you ill if your immunity is low. Get someone else to change their nappies during this time if you can. If this isn’t possible, wash your hands well after changing their nappy.

More information about this treatment

For further information about this treatment go to the electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) website.

You can report any side effect you have to the Medicines Health and Regulatory Authority (MHRA) as part of their Yellow Card Scheme.

• Electronic Medicines Compendium
  Accessed January 2019

• Immunisation against infectious disease: Chapter 6: General contraindications to vaccination
  Public Health England
  First published: March 2013 and regularly updated on the Gov. UK website

Last reviewed: 

12 Aug 2022

Next review due: 

12 Aug 2025

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Vinblastine (Velban®, Alkaban AQ) | OncoLink

Vinblastine is a member of the vinca alkaloids family of chemotherapy agents. These medications work by interfering with cell division, which leaves the tumor unable to grow and spread. Vinblastine was developed from the Madagascar periwinkle plant.

How to Take Vinblastine

This medication is administered intravenously (IV, into a vein), by a trained professional. Specific dosage and dosing schedule depends on the person’s size and the type of cancer being treated.

This medication is a vesicant. Even when carefully and correctly administered by trained personnel, this drug may cause a feeling of burning and pain. There is a risk that this medication may leak out of the vein at the injection site, resulting in tissue damage that can be severe. If the area of injection becomes red, swollen, or painful at any time during or after the injection, notify your doctor or nurse immediately. Do not apply anything to the site unless instructed by your doctor or nurse.

The blood levels of this medication can be affected by certain foods and medications, so they should be avoided. These include: grapefruit, grapefruit juice, ketoconazole, rifampin, phenytoin, St. John’s wort, and many anti-fungal medications. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take.

Possible Side Effects of Vinblastine

There are a number of things you can do to manage the side effects of vinblastine. Talk to your care team about these recommendations. They can help you decide what will work best for you. These are some of the most common or important side effects:

Constipation

Vinblastine can cause serious constipation, abdominal pain and can even lead to a blockage or stoppage of the bowel (called paralytic ileus) if not treated promptly. There are several things you can do to prevent or relieve constipation. Include fiber in your diet (fruits and vegetables), drink 8-10 glasses of non-alcoholic fluids a day, and keep active. A stool softener once or twice a day may prevent constipation. If you do not have a bowel movement for 2-3 days, you should contact your healthcare team for suggestions to relieve the constipation.

Neurotoxicity

This is a toxicity that affects the nerves. The most common effect is called peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the hands and feet, causing causes numbness or tingling, often in the pattern of a stocking or glove. This can get progressively worse with additional doses of the medication and can lead to difficulty with balance or walking. In some people, the symptoms slowly resolve after the medication is stopped, but for some, it never goes away completely. You should let your healthcare provider know if you experience numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, as they may need to adjust the doses of your medication.

The vinca alkaloid chemotherapies are known to cause neuropathy, but they can also cause neurologic toxicity that presents as mental depression, headache, malaise, dizziness, and seizures. It can also cause toxicity of the cranial nerves, which affects the vocal cords (changes in voice), eyes (visual changes) or facial nerves (drooping of the face or mouth). Patients can develop severe pain in the jaw soon after the first treatment with vincristine, which is caused by the medication affecting the nerves. If you notice any of these problems, notify your healthcare team right away.

Low White Blood Cell Count (Leukopenia or Neutropenia)

White blood cells (WBC) are important for fighting infection. While receiving treatment, your WBC count can drop, putting you at a higher risk of getting an infection. You should let your doctor or nurse know right away if you have a fever (temperature greater than 100.4°F or 38°C), sore throat or cold, shortness of breath, cough, burning with urination, or a sore that doesn’t heal.

Tips to preventing infection:

• Washing hands, both yours and your visitors, is the best way to prevent the spread of infection.
• Avoid large crowds and people who are sick (i.e.: those who have a cold, fever or cough or live with someone with these symptoms).
• When working in your yard, wear protective clothing including long pants and gloves.
• Do not handle pet waste.
• Keep all cuts or scratches clean.
• Shower or bath daily and perform frequent mouth care.
• Do not cut cuticles or ingrown nails. You may wear nail polish, but not fake nails.
• Ask your oncology care team before scheduling dental appointments or procedures.
• Ask your oncology care team before you, or someone you live with, has any vaccinations.

Mouth Ulcers (Sores)

Certain cancer treatments can cause sores or soreness in your mouth and/or throat. Notify your doctor or nurse if your mouth, tongue, inside of your cheek or throat becomes white, ulcerated or painful. Performing regular mouth care can help prevent or manage mouth sores. If mouth sores become painful, your doctor or nurse can recommend a pain reliever.

• Brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush or cotton swab twice a day.
• Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol. A baking soda and/or salt warm water mouth rinse (2 level teaspoons of baking soda or 1 level teaspoon salt in an eight-ounce glass of warm water) is recommended 4 times daily.
• If your mouth becomes dry, eat moist foods, drink plenty of fluids (6-8 glasses), and suck on sugarless hard candy.
• Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, drinking alcoholic beverages, and citrus juices.

Loss or Thinning of Scalp and Body Hair (Alopecia)

Your hair may become thin, brittle, or may fall out. This typically begins two to three weeks after treatment starts. This hair loss can be all body hair, including pubic, underarm, legs/arms, eyelashes, and nose hairs. The use of scarves, wigs, hats, and hairpieces may help. Hair generally starts to regrow soon after treatment is completed. Remember your hair helps keep you warm in cold weather, so a hat is particularly important in cold weather or to protect you from the sun.

High Blood Pressure

This medication can cause high blood pressure (hypertension). Patients should have their blood pressure checked regularly during therapy. Any hypertension should be treated appropriately.

Decrease in Appetite or Taste Changes

Nutrition is an important part of your care. Cancer treatment can affect your appetite and, in some cases, the side effects of treatment can make eating difficult. Ask your oncology care team about nutritional counseling services at your treatment center to help with food choices.

• Try to eat five or six small meals or snacks throughout the day, instead of 3 larger meals.
• If you are not eating enough, nutritional supplements may help.
• You may experience a metallic taste or find that food has no taste at all. You may dislike foods or beverages that you liked before receiving cancer treatment. These symptoms can last for several months or longer after treatment ends.
• Avoid any food that you think smells or tastes bad. If red meat is a problem, eat chicken, turkey, eggs, dairy products, and fish without a strong smell. Sometimes cold food has less of an odor.
• Add extra flavor to meat or fish by marinating it in sweet juices, sweet and sour sauce, or dressings. Use seasonings like basil, oregano, or rosemary to add flavor. Bacon, ham, and onion can add flavor to vegetables.

Fatigue

Fatigue is very common during cancer treatment and is an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion that is not usually relieved by rest. While on cancer treatment, and for a period after, you may need to adjust your schedule to manage fatigue. Plan times to rest during the day and conserve energy for more important activities. Exercise can help combat fatigue; a simple daily walk with a friend can help. Talk to your healthcare team for helpful tips on dealing with this side effect.

Nausea and/or Vomiting

Talk to your doctor or nurse so they can prescribe medications to help you manage nausea and vomiting. In addition, dietary changes may help. Avoid things that may worsen the symptoms, such as heavy or greasy/fatty, spicy or acidic foods (lemons, tomatoes, oranges). Try antacids, (e.g. milk of magnesia, calcium tablets such as Tums), saltines, or ginger ale to lessen symptoms.

Call your doctor or nurse if you are unable to keep fluids down for more than 12 hours or if you feel lightheaded or dizzy at any time.

Less common, but important side effects can include:

• Urinary retention: Some patients may experience an inability to urinate (even when you feel that you need to). If you notice you are unable to urinate, you should call your healthcare team right away or go to the emergency room to be evaluated.
• Pain in tumor-containing tissue: Some patients may experience pain in tumor-containing tissue. This is thought to occur due to swelling of that area during its response to treatment.
• Radiation Recall: This medication may cause radiation recall. It may present as a skin reaction that looks like a sunburn (redness, swelling, soreness, peeling skin) in areas where radiation was previously given. Notify your oncology care team if you notice this side effect. Treatment can include topical steroid ointments and a delay in your next chemotherapy dose. 

Sexual & Reproductive Concerns

This drug may affect your reproductive system, resulting in the menstrual cycle or sperm production becoming irregular or stopping permanently. In addition, the desire for sex may decrease during treatment.

Exposure of an unborn child to this medication could cause birth defects, so you should not become pregnant or father a child while on this medication. Effective birth control is necessary during treatment, even if your menstrual cycle stops or you believe you are not producing sperm. You may want to consider sperm banking or egg harvesting if you may wish to have a child in the future. Discuss these options with your oncology team. You should consult with your healthcare team before breastfeeding while receiving this medication.

23.2. Vinca alkaloid derivatives

Vinpocetine
(cavinton*) – semi-synthetic derivative
vincamine alkaloid found in
periwinkle plant (Vinca
minor L. and Vinca
erecta), expands
predominantly cerebral vessels. Myotropic
antispasmodic effect of the drug
associated with inhibition of phosphodiesterase,
which contributes to the accumulation
cAMP smooth muscle cells. Vinpocetine
does not cause the phenomenon of “robbing”;
without affecting the blood supply of intact
areas, it enhances the blood supply
ischemic areas of the brain.
Vinpocetine improves cerebral circulation
(microcirculation) not only due to
vasodilation of the brain, but also for
score

raise
the ability of erythrocytes to deform,
which leads to a decrease in
blood viscosity, since aggregation
platelets are reduced. Besides,
vinpocetine increases brain resilience
to hypoxia, increases oxygen utilization,
enhances absorption and metabolism
glucose with switching to energy
more beneficial, aerobic oxidation pathway.

Vinpocetine
indicated for chronic insufficiency
cerebral circulation, conditions
after a stroke, with neurological and
mental disorders in patients with
cerebrovascular insufficiency,
in vascular diseases of the eye and
decreased hearing acuity of vascular or
toxic genesis. Assign inside
During a long time. At
need to be administered intravenously
drip.

Side effects
effects: decreased blood pressure, nausea and
dizziness. With rapid intravenous
the introduction of possible tachycardia, extra-
systole, intraventricular slowdown
conductivity.

23.3. Ergot alkaloid derivatives

Nicergoline
(sermion ^*)
– synthetic derivative of alkaloids
ergot, with attached bromine
residue of nicotinic acid.
The vasodilating effect of the drug
associated with α-adrenergic blocking and direct
myotropic action. Expands arterioles
brain and peripheral vessels.
Improves cerebral, pulmonary, renal
blood flow and blood supply to the extremities.

Apply
with disorders of cerebral circulation
against the background of atherosclerosis and thromboembolism,
in disorders of the peripheral
blood circulation, etc. Introduced inside and
parenterally. When taken orally in
therapeutic doses does not affect blood pressure,
possible after intravenous administration
hypotensive effect. Of the side
effects are also possible dizziness,
itching, dyspeptic disorders.

23.4. Derivatives of nicotinic acid

Nicotine
acid has a pronounced
vasodilating effect as
peripheral vessels, and on the vessels
brain. nicotinic acid is bad
tolerate (see the chapter “Means used
with atherosclerosis”), therefore, with
disorders of cerebral circulation
use its derivatives with less
pronounced side effects.

Xanthinol
nicotinate (Complamin*) in its structure
has elements of nicotinic acid and
theophylline. The drug expands
peripheral vessels and vessels of the brain,
improves both peripheral and
cerebral circulation, reduces
phenomena of cerebral hypoxia, several
reduces platelet aggregation. A drug
used for disorders of the peripheral
and cerebral circulation associated
with cerebral atherosclerosis.

Nicotinoyl-GABA
(Pikamilon*) belongs to the group of derivatives
GABA, combines the structure of GABA and nicotinic
acids, mainly expands
brain vessels.

Cardiotoxic effects of yew tree alkaloids and periwinkle rosea | Mal

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