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Gemcitabine is used alone or with other treatments/medications to treat certain types of cancer (e.g., breast, lung, pancreas). It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.This drug may also be used to treat certain other cancers, such as bladder and ovarian cancer.
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| Overview |
Photos |
How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Gemcitabine
Uses
Gemcitabine is used alone or with other treatments/medications to treat certain types of cancer (e.g., breast, lung, pancreas). It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.This drug may also be used to treat certain other cancers, such as bladder and ovarian cancer.
Notes
- Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., complete blood counts before each dose, kidney function tests, liver function tests) should be performed from time to time to monitor for side effects and response to treatment.
- Consult your doctor for more details.
- Keep all scheduled medical appointments.
Storage
- Store unopened vials at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
- Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted.
- Once mixed, this medication may be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
- Do not refrigerate.
- Discard any unused liquid safely.
How To Use
- This medication is given by injection into a vein by a healthcare professional, usually over 30 minutes once a week or as directed by your doctor.
- The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids.
- Clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol before giving this medication.
- Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration.
- If either is present, do not use the liquid.
- If you have any questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist.When giving this medication, take appropriate steps (e.g., wear gloves) to prevent accidental contact with this drug.
- If this medication touches your skin, wash the skin immediately and completely with soap and water.
- Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely.
Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain/redness at the injection site, and flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, muscle aches) may occur.
- Nausea and vomiting can be severe.
- In some cases, drug therapy may be needed to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting.
- Changes in diet and lifestyle, such as eating several small meals or limiting activity, may help lessen some of these effects.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Temporary hair loss may occur.
- Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: dizziness, fainting, mouth sores, numbness/tingling of hands/feet, swelling of ankles/feet.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: severe stomach/abdominal pain, easy bleeding/bruising, chest pain, cough, difficulty catching your breath (shortness of breath, wheezing), unusual tiredness, fast/irregular heartbeat, jaw/left arm pain, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, vision changes, confusion, change in amount of urine, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes/skin.This medication can lower your ability to fight an infection (bone marrow depression).
- Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of infection (e.g., high fever, chills, persistent sore throat).An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before taking gemcitabine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bone marrow problems (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia), heart problems (e.g., irregular heartbeat, heart failure), kidney problems, liver problems, radiation therapy.Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine.Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infections.To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured, use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to lessen the risk of bleeding gums.This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
- Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss reliable forms of birth control.
- It is recommended that men and women use two effective forms of birth control (e.g., condoms and birth control pills) while taking this medication and for some time afterwards.It is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.
- Because of the potential harm to the nursing infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- For the most benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed.
- If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.
Drug Interactions
- Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them.
- Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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