About
Gemcitabine is a nucleoside analog antimetabolite used in the treatment of various solid tumors. It acts by inhibiting DNA synthesis and repair, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. Once inside the cell, gemcitabine is phosphorylated to its active diphosphate and triphosphate forms, which interfere with DNA replication by inhibiting ribonucleotide reductase and incorporating into DNA, respectively. This dual mechanism contributes to its potent cytotoxic activity against rapidly proliferating malignant cells. Administered intravenously, gemcitabine is a cornerstone in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. Its favorable toxicity profile, particularly less severe myelosuppression compared to some other agents, makes it a versatile option in combination chemotherapy regimens. Regular monitoring of blood counts and renal/hepatic function is important during treatment to ensure patient safety and optimize therapeutic outcomes.
Uses
- Pancreatic cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
Directions For Use
Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and infusion schedule are tailored to the specific cancer type and patient's condition.
Benefits
- Effective against a broad range of solid tumors.
- Well-tolerated compared to some other chemotherapies.
- Can be used as a single agent or in combination.
- Improves survival and quality of life in pancreatic cancer.
- Available in an injectable form for systemic delivery.
- Relatively short infusion time.
Side Effects
- Myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Rash
- Edema (swelling)
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Proteinuria (protein in urine)
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
- Alopecia (mild hair loss)
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
Safety Measures
- Alcohol - Avoid alcohol as it may exacerbate liver toxicity and gastrointestinal side effects.
- Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential for fetal harm; use effective contraception.
- Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding as the drug may pass into breast milk.
- Liver - Use with caution in patients with liver impairment; monitor liver function tests closely.
- Kidney - Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function; monitor kidney function.
- Lung - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing lung conditions; monitor for pulmonary toxicity.
Disclaimer
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Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.
Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.
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