Vincristine

Early Side Effects (within one week) Can Include:

• Damage to your skin if it leaks outside the vein into nearby tissue. Tell your nurse right away if you have any of these at the injection area while you are getting the drug:
  -Pain,
  -Burning,
  -Any change in sensation.
• A metallic taste in the mouth.
• Constipation, often with abdominal cramping.
• Mild nausea or loss of appetite (rare).

Late Side Effects (after one week) Can Include:

• Muscle weakness, tingling, and numbness in the fingers and toes. They usually disappear after the drug is stopped.
• Thinning or loss of hair two to three weeks after treatment. Your hair will grow back when your treatment is done.

Special Points:

• This medicine can have a bad effect on an unborn child. Ask your doctor or nurse about the type of birth control you should use. Tell your doctor immediately if you think you or your partner might be pregnant.
• This medicine can decrease your ability to have a child. It can affect both men and women. Discuss this with your doctor before you start treatment.
• Stool softeners and/or laxatives are usually needed daily. These will help to maintain regular bowel movements and relieve constipation. Discuss this with you doctor or nurse.
• Do not use enemas or rectal suppositories unless your doctor or nurse tells you to do so.
• Tell your doctor or nurse if you are taking any other medicines, including:
  – medicines that do and do not require a prescription.
  – herbal remedies.
  -vitamins.
  – dietary supplements.
  Some of these may change the way your chemotherapy works. Also let your doctor know of any change in your medicines.