vinBLAStine sulfate /vinblas″tēn, -tin/ , an antimitotic antineoplastic. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of many neoplastic diseases, such as choriocarcinoma, testicular carcinoma, lung cancer, breast cancer, renal cancer, Hodgkin’s disease, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Leukopenia, bacterial infection, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. It is not prescribed in pregnancy and should not be administered intrathecally. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the typical adverse effects are leukopenia (dose-limiting toxicity), nausea, diarrhea, stomatitis, and alopecia. Neurotoxicity seldom occurs at usual clinical doses but can become significant at higher doses. Vinblastine is a vesicant, so prompt attention is required if extravasation occurs.
