Generic
name: Gemcitabine Injection
Brand Name: Gemzar®
Description
Gemcitabine is a type of chemotherapy, which interfere with the growth of
rapidly growing cancer cells and eventually causes cell death. It is used
alone or in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
Uses
Gemcitabine is used to treat certain types of cancer such as :
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreatic cancers
How to Use?
This injection is given by vein (IV), usually over 30 minutes. The dose
depends on your health condition and response to therapy. The recommended
dose should not be exceeded. All mixing and dilution with correct IV fluids
should be done properly , following all safety precautions.
Safety Tips
While taking or before taking Gemcitabine, your doctor should know if you
have any of these conditions:
- Blood disorders
- Bleeding problems
- Dental disease
- Virus infection like chickenpox or herpes
- Having intramuscular injections
- Kidney disease
- Recent radiation therapy
- Allergic reaction pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
Side Effects
Some side effects are normal while taking Gemcitabine, such as nausea,
vomiting, or pain/redness at the injection site, hair loss etc. However, if
any of these effects worsen, contact your doctor promptly. Certain serious
side effects also occur which require immediate medical attention, like
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores
- Constipation
- Chills
- Fever
- Cough
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- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Loss of appetite
- Blood in the urine
- Yellowing eyes or skin
- Irregular heartbeat
- Change in the amount of urine
- Dark urine etc.
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Disclaimer: The above information is for general
understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical
practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.