💊 DESCRIPTION
Gemcitabine is an antineoplastic (anticancer) agent belonging to the antimetabolite class, specifically a nucleoside analog. It comes as a lyophilized powder in a vial, reconstituted for intravenous (IV) infusion.
- Form: Powder for Injection
- Strength: 200 mg per vial
- Use: For the treatment of various cancers including:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Pancreatic cancer
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Bladder cancer
✅ ADVANTAGES
- Broad-spectrum efficacy against various solid tumors.
- Well-tolerated compared to some older chemotherapeutic agents.
- Can be combined with other agents for enhanced efficacy.
- Convenient IV administration schedule (typically weekly or biweekly).
🌿 NATURE
- Pharmacologic Class: Antimetabolite
- Mechanism of Action: Gemcitabine is phosphorylated inside cells to its active diphosphate and triphosphate forms. These inhibit DNA synthesis by:
- Inhibiting ribonucleotide reductase
- Incorporating into DNA strands and causing chain termination
- Cytotoxic Effect: It targets rapidly dividing cancer cells.
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Hematologic toxicity: May cause neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia. Monitor CBC regularly.
- Hepatic/Renal Impairment: Use with caution; monitor liver and kidney function.
- Pulmonary toxicity: Rare but serious (pneumonitis, pulmonary edema).
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Monitor during administration.
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Contraindicated. Teratogenic.
- Infections: Risk due to immunosuppression. Avoid exposure.
🧊 STORAGE
- Before reconstitution:
- Store below 25°C (77°F)
- Protect from moisture and light
- After reconstitution:
- Use immediately, or store refrigerated at 2–8°C and use within 24 hours
- Do not freeze
👩⚕️ PATIENT ADVICE
- Inform your doctor if you have infections, liver/kidney issues, or lung problems.
- Avoid crowded places and people with infections during treatment.
- Report immediately if you experience fever, cough, bleeding, bruising, or unusual tiredness.
- Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period afterward (men and women).
- Stay hydrated and follow diet/lifestyle recommendations given by your healthcare provider.
- Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your response and side effects.