Gemcitabine
Gemcitabine is a member of the family of drugs known as anti-metabolites, used in the treatment of lung, breast, pancreatic, and bladder cancer as well as malignant mesothelioma. This drug and others like it work by preventing cells from making RNA and DNA by interfering with the synthesis of nucleic acids. In turn, cancer cells will stop growing and will die, preventing the reproduction of such cells.
Treatment Procedure for Gemcitabine
- Gemcitabine is administered intravenously or through a central line.
- How many cycles youll require and the dosage of Gemcitabine will be determined by your doctor and will depend on the stage of your cancer and your overall health.
Side Effects
- Change in liver function Though you may not feel or notice any changes, it is essential that your liver function be monitored during treatment with Gemcitabine.
- Change in kidney function It will also be necessary to keep tabs on the health of your kidneys during treatment.
- Increased chance of infection Due to a reduction in white blood cells, patients being treated with Gemcitabine may be more likely to catch an infection. Stay away from individuals who are ill and inform your doctor immediately if you feel sick.
- Bruising or bleeding This is caused by a reduction in platelets necessary for clotting.
- Anemia
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Flu-like symptoms including achy joints and headache
- Itching or skin rash
- Fluid retention contributing to breathlessness or swollen ankles
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Thinning hair or hair loss