vincristine

The typical dose in 1.4 milligrams per square meter of body surface administered intravenously once a week, and neurotoxicity is the dose limiting factor (it can cause damage to the peripheral nervous system). Because of this, people with neuromuscular disorders should steer clear of this drug if possible. Likewise, people with some forms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome should avoid vincristine. Pregnant women should definitely not take it, because it causes severe birth defects in animal tests. Side effects include those found with vinblastine, plus nervous system problems such as sensory impairment; some people may also develop breathing problems or lung spasms shortly after the drug is administered. People occasionally develop secondary cancers if they receive the drug along with other anticancer drugs that are known to be carcinogens. Trade names for this drug include Oncovin.