What is this medication for?
Gemcitabine belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medicines known as antineoplastics, and specifically to the group of antineoplastics known as antimetabolites. Gemcitabine fights cancer by preventing the growth of cancer cells, which eventually results in their destruction. It is used to treat certain types of lung cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and cancer of the pancreas.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Gemzar® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Gemcitabine is available as an intravenous (into the vein) injection. It is usually injected through a specially prepared site on the skin. The recommended dose varies according to body size. Gemcitabine is usually given once a week by an intravenous infusion that usually takes about 30 minutes. A rest period of one week is often scheduled every fourth week.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. Very careful handling of this medication is required. It is always administered in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.
As well as interfering with the genetic material DNA of cancer cells, gemcitabine can interfere with some of your normal cells. This may cause a number of side effects such as mouth sores. Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section, "What side effects are possible with this medication?"
Who should NOT take this medication?
Gemcitabine should not be used by anyone who is allergic to gemcitabine or any ingredients of the medication.