Gemcetin
Generic Name
Gemcitabine Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Example Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| gemcetin 200 mg injection | ৳ 1,400.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Gemcitabine is an antimetabolite chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer, including pancreatic, breast, non-small cell lung, and ovarian cancers. It interferes with DNA synthesis, leading to cell death.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 1000 mg/m² administered intravenously over 30 minutes, once weekly for 7 weeks, followed by 1 week rest. Subsequent cycles: once weekly for 3 out of 4 weeks.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustments based solely on age, but renal and hepatic function should be closely monitored.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dose reduction may be considered for severe impairment. No specific guidelines for initial dosing.
How to Take
For intravenous infusion only after reconstitution. Administer over 30 minutes. Do not administer by bolus injection.
Mechanism of Action
Gemcitabine is a pyrimidine antimetabolite that becomes intracellularly phosphorylated to active nucleosides. The active triphosphate (dFdCTP) inhibits DNA synthesis by competing with deoxycytidine triphosphate for incorporation into DNA and also by inhibiting ribonucleotide reductase, an enzyme responsible for DNA precursor synthesis. The active diphosphate (dFdCDP) inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, reducing the concentrations of deoxynucleotides required for DNA synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Immediate (due to IV administration), but clinical effects are observed over treatment cycles.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion as inactive dFdU and its metabolites; less than 10% excreted as unchanged drug.
Half life
Variable, typically 32-94 minutes after IV infusion.
Absorption
Administered intravenously, hence 100% bioavailability. Rapidly distributed to tissues.
Metabolism
Rapidly and extensively metabolized intracellularly by nucleoside kinases to active triphosphates and also deaminated by cytidine deaminase to inactive difluorodeoxyuridine (dFdU).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to gemcitabine or any excipients
- Severe bone marrow depression (unless disease related and acceptable by oncologist)
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants
Increased risk of bleeding.
Radiation therapy
Increased risk of severe toxicity (radiation recall).
Live attenuated vaccines
Avoid concomitant use due to immunosuppressive effects.
Storage
Store unopened vials at controlled room temperature (20-25°C). Protect from light. Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or stored under refrigeration for a limited time as per manufacturer guidelines.
Overdose
No known antidote. Management is supportive care, including monitoring blood counts and providing transfusions as needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category D for pregnancy. Gemcitabine can cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy. Lactation: Unknown if excreted in human milk; avoid breastfeeding due to potential for serious adverse reactions in infants.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to gemcitabine or any excipients
- Severe bone marrow depression (unless disease related and acceptable by oncologist)
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants
Increased risk of bleeding.
Radiation therapy
Increased risk of severe toxicity (radiation recall).
Live attenuated vaccines
Avoid concomitant use due to immunosuppressive effects.
Storage
Store unopened vials at controlled room temperature (20-25°C). Protect from light. Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or stored under refrigeration for a limited time as per manufacturer guidelines.
Overdose
No known antidote. Management is supportive care, including monitoring blood counts and providing transfusions as needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category D for pregnancy. Gemcitabine can cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy. Lactation: Unknown if excreted in human milk; avoid breastfeeding due to potential for serious adverse reactions in infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years when stored unopened. Reconstituted solution stability varies.
Availability
Hospitals, specialized oncology centers, retail pharmacies with proper handling facilities
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established gemcitabine's efficacy and safety in various cancer types, often as a first-line or combination therapy. Ongoing trials explore its use in new indications and novel combinations.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential (before each dose)
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine, BUN)
- Electrolytes
Doctor Notes
- Careful monitoring of blood counts and organ function is essential.
- Adjust dose based on patient tolerability and myelosuppression.
- Premedication may be needed for nausea/vomiting.
Patient Guidelines
- Report any fever, bleeding, or unusual bruising immediately.
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid live vaccines.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
Contact your oncologist immediately if you miss a scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.
Driving Precautions
Gemcitabine can cause fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these symptoms.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent infections.
- Avoid contact sports or activities that may cause injury due to risk of bleeding.
- Eat a balanced diet as tolerated.
- Get adequate rest.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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