Paper II
2020 February (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)

Question

Vinca alkaloids

Q73 marksShort Notes

Answer

Vinca alkaloids are plant-derived anticancer drugs.

Examples

  • Vincristine, Vinblastine, Vinorelbine

Mechanism of action

  • Bind to tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization, preventing mitotic spindle formation, arresting cells in metaphase (M-phase specific)

Uses

  • Vincristine: ALL, lymphomas (combination regimens)
  • Vinblastine: Hodgkin’s lymphoma, testicular cancer

Adverse effects

  • Vincristine: peripheral neuropathy (dose-limiting), constipation
  • Vinblastine: myelosuppression (more than vincristine)
  • Both: alopecia; vesicant on extravasation

Other Years Asked


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