Gemcitabine

Indications & Dose:

Palliative treatment in patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer.

DOSAGE:

100mg/in given by 3-mint IV infusion. This should be repeated once weekly for three weeks, followed by a one-week rest period. This four-week cycle is then repeated. Dosage reduction is applied based upon the amount of toxicity experienced by the patient

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity

Side Effects:

Mild gastro intestinal disorders & rashes; renal impairment, pulmonary oedema & influenza like symptoms. Haemolytic uraemic syndrome rarely and therapy should be discontinued. 

Cautions:

Precautions:

Monitored prior to each dose for platelet, leukocyte and granulocyte counts. Suspension or modification of therapy should be considered when drug induced marrow depression is detected. 

Interaction:

Warnings:

Prolongation of the infusion time and increased dosing frequency has been shown to increase toxicity. Gemcitabine can suppress bone marrow function. Side Effects: Fever, rash, alopecia, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, stomatitis, anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes (ALTIAST, alkaline phosphatase) and bilirubin. Neuromuscular & skeletal pain, proteinuria, hematuria, increased BUN. Pregnancy: Pregnancy risk factor D

Adverse Effects:

Lactations:

Special Precautions:

Counselling:

Side Effects Or Adverse Reactions:

Patient And Carer Advice: