A group of substances derived from the periwinkle plant (VINCA ROSEA) that are used to treat leukaemias, lymphomas, and some solid tumours, such as breast cancer and lung cancer. All vinca alkaloids can cause neurological toxicity, which appears as neuropathy. Other side effects may include abdominal pain, constipation, and reversible alopecia. Common vinca alkaloids are vinblastine, vindesine, and vincristine.... vinca alkaloids
one of a group of *antimitotic drugs (see also cytotoxic drug) derived from the periwinkle (Vinca rosea). Vinca alkaloids are used especially to treat leukaemias and lymphomas; they include vinblastine, vincristine, and vindesine. Vinorelbine is used in the treatment of advanced breast cancer and *non-small-cell lung cancer. Vinflunine is given by intravenous infusion to treat *transitional cell carcinoma. Vinca alkaloids are highly toxic; side-effects include *myelosuppression, peripheral neuropathy, and severe irritation at the injection site.... vinca alkaloid
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