Rosy periwinkle
Vinorelbine is a chemotherapy drug produced in part from extracts of Catharanthus roseus, also known as rosy periwinkle.
Drug profile
- Class: Semi-synthetic vinca alkaloid
- Mechanism of action: Vinorelbine inhibits tubulin polymerization of the cell during the G2 phase of mitosis, leading to cell death.
- Treatment type: Chemotherapy
- US approval: 1994
- Synonyms: Navelbine
- FDA Use-in-Pregnancy Rating: Category D
What Vinorelbine is effective for and why
Vinorelbine has FDA-approved applications in relapsed, metastatic breast cancer, both as a single agent and together with trastuzumab (Herceptin). Vinorelbine is also approved as a single agent for elderly patients against non-small cell lung cancer, and the drug is also used against cervical cancer and endometrial cancer when combined with cisplatin. Finally, vinorelbine is sometimes used in a palliative setting for advanced, relapsed or refractory Hodgkins lymphoma, and it is currently under investigation as an agent against bladder cancer.
Vinorelbine side effects
While each patient will have his or her own experiences with the side effects of vinorelbine, most patients will likely experience flu-like symptoms (fever, chills) or signs of infection, cough, pulmonary tightness, or chest pains, severe constipation, pale skin, sensory issues (problems with vision, hearing, speech, balance), numbness or burning feelings, nausea and/or vomiting, hair loss, weight loss, and loss of appetite. Most if not all of these side effects should subside when one is finished with receiving vinorelbine. Patients are encouraged to report all side effects to their oncologist or oncology team.
Patients receiving vinorelbine are urged to avoid receiving live vaccinations and to avoid people who have recently been given live vaccinations since there is a risk that the virus in question can be passed to the patient.
Furthermore, patients with a history of liver disease, nerve disorders, previous anticancer therapy (such as radiation), or myelosuppression need to exercise caution regarding vinorelbine. Again, patients are encouraged to report all side effects to their oncologist or oncology team.
Sources
- Boyiadzis, Michael M. et al. Hematology-Oncology Therapy. 2007. New York: McGraw Hill, Medical Publishing Division.
- Cancer Drug Manual, BC Cancer Agency
- Perry, Michael C, Editor. Companion Handbook to the Chemotherapy Sourcebook. 1999. Baltimore; Williams & Wilkins.
- Drugs.com: Vinorelbine
Significant studies relating to vinorelbine
