Vinorelbine for Lung Cancer

Overview

Vinorelbine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It may be prescribed either in combination with cisplatin for patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC, or used alone as a first-line treatment for metastatic NSCLC. 

Vinorelbine belongs to a class of drugs known as vinca alkaloids. It works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells, stopping them from dividing and spreading. This helps slow or stop the progression of lung cancer.

How do I take it?

Prescribing information states that vinorelbine is typically given as an intravenous (IV) injection or infusion once per week. The drug is usually given in a clinical setting under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Vinorelbine should be administered exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects

Common side effects of vinorelbine include leukopenia (low white blood cell count), neutropenia (low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell), anemia (low red blood cell count), increased liver enzyme levels (aspartate aminotransferase), nausea, vomiting, constipation, asthenia (weakness), reactions at the injection site, and peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage causing numbness or tingling).

Rare but serious side effects may include severe myelosuppression (decreased bone marrow activity that can lead to infection, septic shock, or death), liver toxicity, severe constipation or bowel obstruction (which may cause tissue death or a hole in the bowel), extravasation (severe tissue injury or vein inflammation due to IV leakage), severe nerve damage affecting movement or sensation, lung damage (including respiratory failure or conditions like interstitial pneumonitis or acute respiratory distress syndrome), and harm to an unborn baby if used during pregnancy.

For more information about this treatment, visit:
Vinorelbine Injection — MedlinePlus