Question- Vincristine (VCR) is commonly used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). What are the common adverse effects and toxicities associated with the use of vincristine?
Answer- The cited reference notes: “The most common side effects of VCR are gastrointestinal toxicity, peripheral neuropathy, electrolyte abnormalities, and autonomic neuropathy. Abdominal pain, constipation, and ileus are the most common gastrointestinal side effects. Difficulty walking or standing, muscular weakness, loss of deep tendon reflexes, and neuropathic pain are signs of VCR-related peripheral neuropathy. Hypertension is the most common manifestation of autonomic neuropathy. (Pekpak E et al. Toxicity of vincristine combined with posaconazole in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. 2017 J Pediatr Hematol Oncol, early online)