Vinblastine
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Vinca alkaloid chemotherapy for mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and other neoplasms in dogs and cats.
Vinca alkaloid antineoplastic (vinblastine sulfate). Mechanism: binds tubulin → inhibits microtubule polymerization → disrupts mitotic spindle → arrests cell division in metaphase → cell death (M-phase specific). Active against rapidly dividing cells (lymphocytes, tumor cells). IV administration only; vesicant — extravasation causes tissue necrosis.
Key information
Vinca alkaloid chemotherapeutic. CYTOTOXIC — handle with chemotherapy precautions (gloves, gown, mask). Vesicant — extravasation causes severe tissue necrosis. IV use only. Refrigerate. Dispose as hazardous waste.
How to Give this Medication
IV via confirmed patent catheter ONLY: dilute in 0.9% NaCl or D5W; administer as slow IV push over 1 min or as short infusion. Confirm catheter patency with saline flush before and flush after. Wear double gloves, gown, eye protection (vesicant/cytotoxic). Flush catheter thoroughly with 10 mL saline after administration. Dispose per cytotoxic protocols. Store refrigerated (2–8°C); do not freeze.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Myelosuppression: severe neutropenia (nadir 5–7 days — dose-limiting). GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia. Peripheral neuropathy (less than vincristine). Vesicant: severe tissue necrosis if extravasated — IV only via catheter. Alopecia.
Precautions
For animals
VESICANT — confirm patent IV catheter before administration; severe tissue necrosis from extravasation. Monitor CBC periodically with prolonged use. (nadir 5–7 days). Avoid in pregnant animals. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. Pre-medicate with antiemetics.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. CYTOTOXIC VESICANT. Wear double gloves, gown, and eye protection. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Teratogenic. Do not handle if pregnant or breastfeeding. If skin contact occurs, wash immediately with soap and water. Severe tissue necrosis from extravasation — do NOT inject into anything other than a confirmed patent IV catheter. Dispose of waste per cytotoxic protocol. Contact Poison Control if ingested.
Overdose
This is a veterinary emergency. Vinca alkaloid overdose causes bone marrow suppression, severe GI toxicity, and neurotoxicity. Contact your veterinary oncologist immediately.
Vinblastine dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VINBLASTINE 1MG/ML INJECTABLE | 1 MG/ML | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)