Vinorelbine (By injection)
Vinorelbine (vin-OR-el-been)
Treats lung cancer. Sometimes used in combination with other medicines.
Brand Name(s):
Navelbine, Vinorelbine Novaplus
There may be other brand names for this medicine.When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to vinorelbine or if you are pregnant.How to Use This Medicine:
Injectable
- Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
- You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
- Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
- If any of this medicine gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose or on your skin, tell your caregiver right away.
If a dose is missed:
- This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or clinic for instructions.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- If you store this medicine at home, keep it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
- Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using other cancer medicines or medicines to treat infections.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever been treated with radiation or other cancer drugs.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, lung disease, breathing problems, or problems with your nervous system.
- Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
- Your doctor will need to check your blood regularly while you are receiving this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
- This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.
- Some of the side effects of this medicine may appear in between treatments or after you have stopped using this medicine.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
- Constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, indigestion
- Fever, chills, or sore throat
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Redness, pain, swelling, or blisters where the IV is given
- Shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or blue color around lips or fingernails
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, or black, tarry stools
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Hair loss
- Mild tiredness or weakness
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088
Last Updated: 1/27/2017