What is this medication for?
Vinorelbine belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medications known as antineoplastics. It kills cancer cells by interfering with the genetic material DNA, which is necessary for their growth and reproduction. Vinorelbine is used alone or in combination with other antineoplastic medications for the treatment of certain types of lung cancer.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Navelbine® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose and dosing schedule of vinorelbine varies according to the specific type of cancer being treated, the response to therapy, and the other medications or treatments being used. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications.
Vinorelbine is injected into a vein through a specially prepared site on your skin. It is usually given on a weekly basis. Very careful handling of this medication is required. It is always given under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.
As well as interfering with the genetic material DNA of cancer cells, vinorelbine can interfere with some of your normal cells. This can cause a number of side effects such as hair loss. Vinorelbine often causes nausea and vomiting, but it is important to keep using this medicine even if you feel ill. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can advise you on how to reduce the effects of nausea and vomiting. Your doctor may want you to drink extra fluid while using this medication to prevent kidney problems. Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section, "What side effects are possible with this medication?"
Who should NOT take this medication?
Vinorelbine should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to vinorelbine or any ingredients of the medication
- has severely reduced levels of white blood cells