Introduction

Vincristine is chemotherapy that is given as a treatment for some types of cancer. This factsheet describes vincristine, how it is given and some of its possible side effects. It should ideally be read with CancerBACUP's booklet Understanding chemotherapy, which gives more information and advice.

Each person's reaction to chemotherapy is unique. Some people have very few side effects, while others may experience more. The side effects described in this factsheet will not affect everyone who is given vincristine, and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.

We have outlined the commonest and less common side effects, so you can be aware of them if they occur. However, we have not included those which are very rare and therefore extremely unlikely to affect you.

If you do notice any effects which you think may be due to the drug, but which are not listed in the factsheet, please discuss these with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.

You will see your doctor regularly while you have this treatment so that s/he can monitor the effects of the chemotherapy. This factsheet should help you to discuss any queries about your treatment and its side effects with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse, as they are in the best position to help and advise you.

What it looks like

A clear fluid after being dissolved from powder.

How it is given

By injection into a vein (intravenously) through a fine tube (cannula) inserted into the vein. It may also be given through a central line which is inserted into a vein near the collarbone.

Possible side effects

Abdominal cramps and constipation. It usually helps to drink plenty of fluids, eat a high fibre diet and take gentle exercise. Sometimes you may need to take medicines to stimulate your bowel. These can be prescribed by your doctor. CancerBACUP's booklet Diet and the cancer patient has helpful tips. We would be pleased to send you a copy.

Numbness or tingling in hands or feet. This is due to the effect of vincristine on nerves. You may also notice that you have difficulty doing up buttons. Tell your doctor if you notice any numbness or tingling in your hands or feet. This usually improves slowly a few months after the treatment is finished. Very rarely other nerves may be affected (e.g. neck nerves) which may cause pain in the jaw or double vision.

Fertility. Your ability to conceive or father a child may be affected by taking this drug. It is important to discuss fertility with your doctor before starting treatment.

Contraception. It is not advisable to become pregnant or father a child while taking vincristine as it may harm the developing foetus. Again, discuss this with your doctor.

Less common side effects

Hair loss. Hair may thin, or occasionally be lost completely. If this occurs it usually begins about 3-4 weeks after starting treatment, although it may occur earlier. It is temporary, and the hair will return to normal once the treatment is finished. CancerBACUP has a booklet called Coping with hair loss which we would be pleased to send you.

Temporary taste changes. A dietitian or specialist nurse at your hospital can give advice. CancerBACUP's booklet Diet and the cancer patient discusses ways of coping with this.

Temporary reduction in bone marrow function. This can result in anaemia, risk of bruising or bleeding, and infection. This effect can begin about 7 days after the treatment has been given and usually reaches its lowest point at 10-14 days after the chemotherapy. Your blood count will then increase steadily and will usually return to normal within 21-28 days.

The extent to which your blood count is reduced depends on the dose of chemotherapy you receive and which other chemotherapy drugs, if any, are given in combination. Your doctor can advise you how likely it is that your blood count will be lowered by the chemotherapy. Your blood count will be checked regularly to see how well your bone marrow is working.

If your temperature goes above 38øC (100.5øF), or you develop any unexplained bruising or bleeding, or you suddenly feel unwell, even with a normal temperature, contact your doctor or the hospital straightaway.

Additional information

If vincristine leaks into the tissue around the vein it can damage the tissue in that area. If you notice any stinging or burning around the vein while the drug is being given, or any leakage of fluid from the cannula site it is very important that you tell the doctor or nurse. If the area around the injection site becomes red or swollen at any time you should either tell the doctor or nurse on the ward, or if you are at home, ring the clinic or ward and ask to speak to the doctor or nurse.

Some other medicines can be harmful when you are having chemotherapy. Always tell your doctor about any other medicine you are taking.

Last reviewed/updated September 1999