Gemcitabine is a prescription drug that is approved for treating several types of cancer. This eMedTV resource discusses how the medication works, lists potential side effects, and offers information on how to receive the injection.
Hair loss, anemia, and drowsiness are some examples of common gemcitabine side effects. This portion of the eMedTV library offers a more complete list of common side effects and explains which side effects require immediate medical attention.
This eMedTV Web page describes how gemcitabine is used for treating breast cancer, ovarian cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer. This page also discusses gemcitabine uses in children and some off-label uses of the drug.
Gemcitabine dosing recommendations are made based on your height, weight, and other factors. This eMedTV Web page lists other factors your doctor will consider before prescribing your gemcitabine dosage and explains how the drug is administered.
NSAIDs and "live" vaccinations are among the drugs that can potentially interact with gemcitabine. This eMedTV page lists other medicines that may cause drug interactions with gemcitabine, and explains how these interactions can lead to problems.
Gemcitabine may potentially cause lung damage or make some people more susceptible to infections. This eMedTV page offers other precautions and warnings with gemcitabine, including other side effects that can occur and people who should avoid the drug.