Vinorelbine Injection (VINORELBINE - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Brand Name(s): Navelbine

Generic Name: Vinorelbine

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

You must be monitored by a health care professional during and after each dose is given.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

Avoid getting medicine on the skin or in the eyes. If this happens, wash the skin with soap and water. For eyes, open eyelid and flush with plenty of water and tell your doctor right away.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

To reduce constipation, eat high fiber foods, drink plenty of water and exercise.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.

Rarely, this medicine may cause serious injury at the site of injection. Call your doctor right away if you notice any pain, swelling, blisters, sores, lumps under the skin, or scabbing at the injection site.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 9 days after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation or diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • hair loss
  • joint or muscle pain
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • bleeding or bruising
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • chest pain
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • confusion
  • severe or persistent constipation
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • sore throat
  • difficulty swallowing
  • blood in urine

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.