Navelbine (Vinorelbine)

Navelbine is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer and advanced breast cancer that been non-responsive to other medicines.
Children under 18 years old are not to take Navelbine.

Navelbine is a soft capsule that must be swallowed whole with water and preferably a light meal.

Navelbine is taken up to once per week at a maximum dose of 160mg per week.

Information About Navelbine (Vinorelbine)

Navelbine is the brand name for vinorelbine, a chemotherapy medication used primarily in the treatment of various cancers. Vinorelbine is a vinca alkaloid, which works by interfering with the normal process of cell division. By binding to microtubules in cancer cells, it disrupts their ability to replicate and divide, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and spreading.

Vinorelbine is typically administered intravenously, although oral forms may be available in certain countries. The drug is part of a larger treatment regimen and is often combined with other chemotherapy drugs for more effective cancer treatment.

Product Highlights

• Navelbine is commonly used in combination with other chemotherapy agents (such as cisplatin) for treating advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer.
• It is also used for metastatic or advanced breast cancer, often in cases where the disease is resistant to other treatments.
• In some cases, Navelbine may be used for treating other cancers like ovarian cancer or bladder cancer, depending on the clinical situation.

Key Ingredient

• Vinorelbine

Key Benefits

• Navelbine has shown efficacy in treating advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and breast cancer, providing patients with an option when other treatments have failed.
• It is often used in combination with other chemotherapy agents, such as cisplatin, to increase its effectiveness against solid tumors.
• By interfering with microtubule formation, Navelbine selectively affects rapidly dividing cancer cells while sparing normal cells to some extent.
• In regions where oral formulations are available, Navelbine offers flexibility for home treatment, which may be more convenient than intravenous administration in certain situations.

Direction of Use

• Navelbine is typically given by injection into a vein, either as a slow infusion over 6-10 minutes or a longer infusion over 20-30 minutes, depending on the dosing schedule.
• The dosage of Navelbine depends on the patient's body surface area (BSA), the type of cancer being treated, and whether the drug is used alone or in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
• The drug is often administered once a week or every other week, based on the chemotherapy protocol. Dosing schedules may vary based on the patient's condition and response to therapy.
• In some countries, vinorelbine is available in oral capsule form. This option provides patients with greater flexibility and is usually prescribed when appropriate.

Safety Concerns

• Like many chemotherapy drugs, Navelbine can cause bone marrow suppression, leading to decreased white blood cell counts (neutropenia), red blood cell counts (anemia), and platelets (thrombocytopenia). This can raise the risk of infections, bleeding, and low red blood cell counts (anemia).
• Patients on Navelbine should have their blood counts monitored regularly to manage these risks.
• Vinorelbine may cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet. This side effect is often dose-dependent.
• Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and constipation, as with many other chemotherapy drugs. Antiemetic medications and stool softeners may be used to manage these effects.
• Navelbine can affect liver function, and liver enzyme levels should be monitored regularly during treatment. Severe liver toxicity can occur in some patients.
• Some patients may experience reactions at the injection site or during infusion, including pain, redness, and swelling.
• Alopecia (hair loss) is a common side effect of chemotherapy, although it may not be as severe as with other agents.
• Navelbine is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm. It should also be avoided during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and affect the infant.

Avoid Navelbine (Vinorelbine) If

• Patients with a known allergy to vinorelbine or other vinca alkaloids (e.g., vincristine, vinblastine) should not use Navelbine.
• Patients with a history of severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, or anemia should avoid Navelbine, as the drug can exacerbate these conditions.
• Individuals with severe liver disease or impaired liver function (e.g., cirrhosis) should not receive Navelbine due to the increased risk of toxicity and drug accumulation.
• Navelbine is contraindicated in pregnancy as it may cause harm to the developing fetus.
• Navelbine should not be used while breastfeeding because it may be excreted in breast milk and pose a risk to the infant.
• In patients with active infections, the use of Navelbine may further suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of complications.
• Since Navelbine can cause constipation, it should be used with caution in patients with preexisting gastrointestinal obstructions or severe bowel problems.

This product requires special packaging to maintain its integrity during the shipping process. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICATION if the attached temperature indicator shows that the medication was exposed to temperatures below 2 degrees or above 8 degrees Celsius, and contact the pharmacy immediately.