Paper II
Question
Vinca Alkaloids
Answer
Vinca alkaloids are mitotic spindle inhibitors, cell-cycle-specific (M-phase).
Examples: Vincristine, Vinblastine.
MOA: vinca alkaloid → binds tubulin → inhibits microtubule polymerization → prevents mitotic spindle formation → arrests cells in metaphase.
Uses: leukemias, lymphomas (vincristine, part of standard combination regimens such as CHOP), solid tumors (vinblastine — testicular cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma).
Adverse effects: vincristine — peripheral neuropathy (dose-limiting, with comparatively little myelosuppression); vinblastine — more prominent myelosuppression, less neurotoxicity. Both are vesicants if extravasated.

