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Indications

High Alert


Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: chest pain

Derm: alopecia, rash

F and E: hyponatremia

GI: constipation, nausea, in liver enzymes, abdominal pain, anorexia, diarrhea, vomiting

Hemat: anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia

Local: irritation at IV site, phlebitis

MS: arthralgia, back pain, jaw pain, myalgia

Neuro: fatigue, neurotoxicity

Resp: shortness of breath

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Availability

(Generic available)

Route/Dosage

Hepatic Impairment

US Brand Names

Navelbine

Action

  • Binds to a protein (tubulin) of cellular microtubules, where it interferes with microtubule assembly. Cell replication is stopped as a result (cell cycle–specific for M phase).
Therapeutic effects:
  • Death of rapidly replicating cells, particularly malignant ones.

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antineoplastics

Pharmacologic Classification: vinca alkaloids

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: IV administration results in complete bioavailability.

Distribution: Highly bound to platelets and lymphocytes.

Metabolism/Excretion: Mostly metabolized by the liver. At least one metabolite is active. Large amounts eliminated in feces; 11% excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half-Life: 28–44 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(effect on WBCs)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
IVunknown7–10 days7–15 days



Patient/Family Teaching

  • Instruct patient to report symptoms of neurotoxicity (paresthesia, pain, difficulty walking, persistent constipation).
  • Inform patient that increased fluid intake, dietary fiber, and exercise may minimize constipation. Stool softeners or laxatives may be necessary. Patient should be advised to report severe constipation or abdominal discomfort, as this may be a sign of ileus, which may occur as a consequence of neuropathy.
  • Advise patient to notify health care professional if fever; chills; sore throat; signs of infection; bleeding gums; bruising; petechiae; blood in urine, stool, or emesis; or mouth sores occur.
  • Caution patient to avoid crowds and persons with known infections.
  • Rep: May cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during and for at least 2 mo after last dose of vinorelbine and to avoid breastfeeding during and for 9 days after last dose.
  • Discuss with patient the possibility of hair loss and explore coping strategies.
  • Instruct patient not to receive any vaccinations without advice of health care professional.
  • Emphasize the need for periodic lab tests to monitor for side effects.

Pronunciation

vine-oh-REL-been