Gemcitabine 200mg injection is a chemotherapy medicine used to treat several types of cancer, including ovarian, breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers. It is given as an intravenous infusion under medical supervision.
What it is
Gemcitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor, a type of chemotherapy drug that works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells.
What it's used for
This medicine is used in combination with other drugs to treat advanced ovarian cancer that has come back after platinum-based therapy, metastatic breast cancer after certain prior treatments, and non-small cell lung cancer. It is also used alone to treat pancreatic cancer.
Common side effects
Common side effects include low blood cell counts (myelosuppression), nausea, vomiting, fever, rash, and temporary hair loss. Serious side effects may include allergic reactions, severe skin reactions, lung problems, liver or kidney issues, and worsening of radiation therapy effects.
Important cautions
Do not use gemcitabine if you are allergic to it. This medicine can cause severe toxicity if infused for longer than 60 minutes or given more than once weekly. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts before each cycle and may adjust the dose. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath, severe skin reactions, or unexplained bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
What is gemcitabine used for?
Gemcitabine is used to treat several cancers, including ovarian cancer (combined with carboplatin), breast cancer (combined with paclitaxel), non-small cell lung cancer (combined with cisplatin), and pancreatic cancer (alone).
How is gemcitabine taken?
Gemcitabine is given as an intravenous infusion (drip) into a vein. The exact dose and schedule are determined by your doctor based on your body size and the type of cancer. It is typically infused over 30 minutes on specific days of a treatment cycle.
What are the common side effects of gemcitabine?
Common side effects include low blood counts (which can increase infection and bleeding risk), nausea, vomiting, fever, rash, and temporary hair loss. More serious side effects include lung problems, severe skin reactions, and kidney or liver issues. Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Can I buy gemcitabine without a prescription in Nigeria?
According to the product information, gemcitabine injection is classified as an over-the-counter (OTC) product. However, it is a potent chemotherapy medicine that must be administered by a qualified healthcare professional. Never self-administer this injection.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
Similar Products
