vinca alkaloids Flashcards
name 3
vinblastine
vincristine
vindesine
name 1 semi synthetic vinca alkaloid
vinorelbine
Which of the following is the ONLY appropriate method of administration?
- SC
- IV
- Intrathecal
- IM
- Oral
IV only
Inadvertent intrathecal administration can cause severe neurotoxicity, usually fatal
Important safety info re administration
IV administration ONLY
inadvertent intrathecal administration can cause severe neurotoxicity, usually fatal
The National Patient Safety Agency has advised that adult & teenage pt treated in an adult or adolescent unit should receive their vinca alkaloid dose in a ….
50ml minibag
The National Patient Safety Agency has advised (August 2008) that teenagers and children treated in a child unit may receive their vinca alkaloid dose in a ….
syringe
True or false - neurotoxicity (e.g. peripheral or autonomic neurpathy) occurs less often with vindesine than with vincristine
True
Common symptoms of neurotoxicity
Peripheral paraesthesia
Loss of deep tendon reflexes
Ototoxicity
Vincristine & vinorelbine - bronchospasm
Severe bronchospasm following administration is more common when used in combination with mitomycin-C
Vincristine - neurotoxicity
- sensory and motor neuropathies are common and cumulative
- monitor pt for symptoms of neuropathy both before and during treatment
- dose reduction, treatment interruption or discontinuation based on severity
Vincristine - motor weakness
Can occcur
Dose reduction or discont may be appropriate if it increases
Recovery from neurotoxic effects is usually slow but complete
Vinorelbine - contraindications
- intrathecal admin
- concurrent radiotherapy if treating liver
- oral use: long term oxygen therapy, prev significant surgical resection of small bowel, or of stomach
Which one can be given orally aswell as IV?
vinorelbine
A patient is to be initiated on vinorelbine for breast cancer or non-small cell lung cancer (only 2 indications).
What would you advise them re contraception ?
Manufacturer advises effective contraception during and for 3 months after treatment; men must avoid fathering a child during and for at least 3 months after treatment.
MOA vinca alkaloids
Inhibit microtubule formation by binding to tubulin
= arrests diving cells by inhibiting mitosis
