Vini
Generic Name
Vincristine Sulfate
Manufacturer
Various (e.g., Square Pharmaceuticals for Bangladesh context)
Country
Various (Often manufactured in various countries including Bangladesh)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| vini 10 mg tablet | ৳ 7.00 | ৳ 70.00 |
| vini 20 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 100.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Vincristine is an antineoplastic (chemotherapy) agent belonging to the vinca alkaloid class. It is used to treat various types of cancer by stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 1.4 mg/m² (maximum 2 mg) administered intravenously once weekly.
Elderly
May require dose adjustment due to decreased hepatic function; close monitoring is advised.
Renal_impairment
No significant dose adjustment is generally required for renal impairment.
How to Take
Administered intravenously, typically over 1 minute. Never administer intrathecally, as it is fatal.
Mechanism of Action
Binds to tubulin proteins, disrupting microtubule formation, which is essential for cell division. This leads to metaphase arrest and cell death in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid distribution into tissues.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via bile and feces; minimal renal excretion.
Half life
Triphasic elimination with a terminal half-life of approximately 23 hours.
Absorption
Administered intravenously, resulting in 100% bioavailability.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) isoenzyme.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to vincristine or other vinca alkaloids
- Patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome (demyelinating form)
- Patients receiving radiation therapy involving the liver (due to potential for increased hepatotoxicity)
Drug Interactions
Phenytoin
May decrease phenytoin levels, requiring dose adjustment.
Itraconazole, Erythromycin
May increase vincristine toxicity due to inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism.
Other myelosuppressive agents
May exacerbate bone marrow suppression.
Storage
Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Overdose can lead to severe neurotoxicity, including potentially irreversible neurological damage. Treatment is supportive; there is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D. Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to potential for fetal harm and excretion into breast milk. Effective contraception should be used.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to vincristine or other vinca alkaloids
- Patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome (demyelinating form)
- Patients receiving radiation therapy involving the liver (due to potential for increased hepatotoxicity)
Drug Interactions
Phenytoin
May decrease phenytoin levels, requiring dose adjustment.
Itraconazole, Erythromycin
May increase vincristine toxicity due to inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism.
Other myelosuppressive agents
May exacerbate bone marrow suppression.
Storage
Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Overdose can lead to severe neurotoxicity, including potentially irreversible neurological damage. Treatment is supportive; there is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D. Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to potential for fetal harm and excretion into breast milk. Effective contraception should be used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years when stored under recommended conditions. Refer to product specific labeling.
Availability
Available in hospitals and specialized cancer treatment centers
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent, generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Vincristine has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials since its discovery, demonstrating efficacy in various oncological indications, often in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete blood count (CBC) with differential
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Neurological assessment
- Serum electrolytes (especially sodium)
Doctor Notes
- Crucial to administer intravenously only; intrathecal administration is fatal.
- Monitor closely for signs of neurotoxicity (e.g., constipation, paresthesias, motor weakness) and myelosuppression.
- Dose adjustment for hepatic impairment is necessary.
- Avoid concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.
Patient Guidelines
- Patients should be informed about potential neurological side effects (e.g., numbness, tingling, difficulty walking) and report them promptly.
- Strict adherence to scheduled appointments for administration and monitoring is crucial.
- Report any severe constipation immediately to healthcare provider.
Missed Dose Advice
Managed by healthcare professionals according to the patient's specific treatment schedule.
Driving Precautions
Due to potential neurological side effects (e.g., motor weakness, sensory changes, visual disturbances), driving or operating heavy machinery should be avoided during treatment.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration and a balanced diet to manage gastrointestinal side effects.
- Avoid grapefruit products, as they may interact with vincristine.
- Discuss any complementary therapies with your doctor.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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