CITAFINE 1.4GM INJ VIAL

About

CITAFINE (Gemcitabine) is an antimetabolite chemotherapy agent that interferes with DNA synthesis and repair, leading to cell death. It is a nucleoside analog that, once phosphorylated intracellularly, inhibits DNA polymerase and ribonucleotide reductase, crucial enzymes for DNA replication and repair. This dual mechanism of action makes it highly effective against a broad range of solid tumors. Gemcitabine is administered intravenously and is often used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents or radiation therapy.

Its clinical utility spans several cancer types, including pancreatic, breast, non-small cell lung, and ovarian cancers. Gemcitabine's ability to incorporate into DNA and terminate chain elongation contributes to its potent cytotoxic effects. Patients receiving gemcitabine require careful monitoring for myelosuppression and other potential toxicities, which are common with antimetabolite agents.

Uses

• Pancreatic cancer
• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and infusion schedule are determined by your doctor based on your specific cancer type and body surface area.

Benefits

• Effective against multiple solid tumors
• Can improve survival in pancreatic cancer
• Often used in combination regimens
• May reduce tumor size and progression
• Established efficacy in metastatic settings
• Generally well-tolerated compared to some other chemotherapies

Side Effects

• Myelosuppression (low white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever
• Rash
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Flu-like symptoms
• Liver enzyme elevations
• Kidney dysfunction
• Peripheral edema
• Shortness of breath
• Mouth sores (stomatitis)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may exacerbate liver toxicity and gastrointestinal side effects.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Effective contraception is required for both male and female patients during and for a period after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for a period after the last dose due to potential harm to the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary. Regular monitoring of liver function is essential.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. Dose adjustments may be required, and kidney function should be closely monitored.
• Lung - Monitor for new or worsening pulmonary symptoms, such as interstitial pneumonitis or pulmonary fibrosis, which can be serious.

Disclaimer

MedEHub is committed to delivering reliable, expert-reviewd information to help consumers make informed health decisions. However, the content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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.