Vincristine Sulfate Injection 1 mg Single-dose Vial 2 mL by Pfizer (RX)

Vincristine Sulfate Injection is a chemotherapeutic medication used primarily to treat various types of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, and certain types of solid tumors. It functions by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, thereby preventing their spread in the body. As a vinca alkaloid, it is administered intravenously under medical supervision and is often part of a combination chemotherapy regimen. Due to its potent effects, Vincristine can have significant side effects, thus requiring careful monitoring during treatment.

Vincristine Sulfate Injection is a chemotherapy medication provided by Pfizer Injectables in a 1 mg single-dose vial of 2 mL solution. It is used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, and other types of tumors. This injectable form is intended for intravenous administration and is typically part of a combination chemotherapy regimen.

Details and Features

Active Ingredient: Vincristine Sulfate
Concentration: 1 mg per 2 mL vial
Formulation: Injectable solution for intravenous use
Indication: Used in the treatment of leukemia, Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and other types of cancer
Administration: Administered via intravenous injection by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting

Mechanism of Action

Vincristine is a vinca alkaloid that exerts its effects by inhibiting microtubule formation in the mitotic spindle of dividing cells. This interruption in microtubule dynamics inhibits cell division, thereby leading to cell death. Its action is specific to the M phase (mitosis) of the cell cycle, making it effective against rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Warnings

• Extravasation Risk: Care must be taken to avoid extravasation during administration, as vincristine is a vesicant that can cause significant tissue damage.
  
• Neuropathy: Vincristine can cause peripheral neuropathy, resulting in numbness, tingling, or pain, primarily in the hands and feet.
  
• Bone Marrow Suppression: May result in a lower count of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which could increase the risk of infection, anemia, and bleeding.
  
• Contraindications: Patients with demyelinating form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome should not receive vincristine.
  
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended due to potential harm to the fetus or infant.

Side Effects

While vincristine is effective, it is associated with several potential side effects, some of which can be serious:

Common Side Effects:

• Constipation
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  
• Fatigue
  
• Hair loss (alopecia)
  
• Loss of appetite (anorexia)
    
  Serious Side Effects:
• Peripheral neuropathy
  
• Severe constipation and intestinal obstructions
  
• Altered mental status
  
• Hepatotoxicity (liver damage)
  
• Severe dehydration

Other Considerations:

Patients may experience jaw pain, joint pain or muscle weakness.
Monitoring of blood counts and liver function tests is required to watch for adverse effects.
  
Patients receiving Vincristine Sulfate Injection should be under the care of a healthcare professional experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents. Any serious adverse effects should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. Depending on tolerability and response, dose adjustments may be necessary.