GEM RTU 200mg Injection

About

Gemcitabine is a nucleoside analog antimetabolite chemotherapy agent. It works by interfering with DNA synthesis and repair, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of rapidly dividing cancer cells. Once inside the cell, gemcitabine is phosphorylated to its active forms, which then inhibit DNA polymerase and ribonucleotide reductase, crucial enzymes for DNA replication. It is widely used in the treatment of various solid tumors, including pancreatic, non-small cell lung, breast, and ovarian cancers, often as part of combination chemotherapy regimens. Administered intravenously, gemcitabine is a cornerstone in many oncology protocols, aiming to slow tumor growth, reduce tumor burden, and improve patient outcomes by disrupting the proliferation of malignant cells. Its efficacy requires careful patient selection and monitoring for hematological and other toxicities.

Uses

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

Directions For Use

This medication is administered as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.

Benefits

• Broad-spectrum chemotherapy agent.
• Effective against various solid tumors.
• Can improve survival in certain cancers.
• Often used in combination regimens.
• Interferes with cancer cell DNA synthesis.
• Helps to slow tumor progression.

Side Effects

• Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Rash
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Flu-like symptoms
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Proteinuria (protein in urine)
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Peripheral edema

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Alcohol consumption should be avoided during chemotherapy as it can exacerbate side effects like nausea and liver toxicity.
• Pregnancy - Gemcitabine is contraindicated in pregnancy due to significant risk of fetal harm. Effective contraception is essential for both male and female patients.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is contraindicated during treatment and for a period after the last dose, as the drug is excreted in breast milk and can harm the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver impairment. Liver function should be monitored closely, and dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Renal function should be monitored, and dose adjustments may be required.
• Lung - Patients should be monitored for pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis, which can be severe.

Disclaimer

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