Vincristine Side Effects in a Canine

Used to fight such cancers as Canine Lymphoma, Vincristine is not without risks to dogs. This clear liquid is injected directly into the veins of the dog and is used along with other drugs to battle for the dog's life against cancer.

  1. Loss of Appetite

    • The dosing of Vincristine used for fighting cancer can cause a lack of appetite. This may be due to gastrointestinal discomfort or caused by stress. This failure to eat should be self-limiting, and the dog should resume eating shortly after the drug has been administered. The dog's owner may offer additional foods or tempting foods to the dog to encourage the dog to eat.

    Vomiting

    • Vincristine is known to cause some vomiting. This vomiting is self-limiting in nature and should not occur for any length of time beyond a single day. The dog's owner should provide fluids to the dog to prevent dehydration. If the condition persists, the owners should notify the veterinarian so treatment may be altered.

    Diarrhea

    • Diarrhea has been known to occur with Vincristine, and this side effect appears to be self-limiting. The condition should run its course within a day, although a veterinarian should be notified if the diarrhea contains blood or if it persists. A dog owner should provide the dog with plenty of fluids, although food may not be presented at this time.

    Lethargy

    • Vincristine may cause a dog to appear lethargic or inactive. This is a common occurrence during any cancer treatment and is not, in itself, cause for concern. This reaction may be caused to a lack of energy from the dog not properly eating or gastrointestinal irritation. Allowing the dog to rest is the best course of action for this condition.

    Neurological Effects

    • Vincristine has been known to affect the neurological functions of the dog being treated. This can cause weakness and potentially seizures. These side effects are often handled with the inclusion of an antiseizure medication and a decrease of dosage of Vincristine.

    Hair Loss

    • Vincristine slows down or stops the division of cell in order to stop or slow down the growth of a cancer tumor. This process can also affect other cells. Hair follicles are fast-dividing cell locations and can be affected, causing a loss of hair and a failure of new growth.