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Gemcitabine ( jem-SYTE-uh-been ) (Gemzar®) What is this medication used for? Gemcitabine destroys cancer cells by interfering with their growth cycle.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given?
Special instructions: • Call a healthcare provider if any of the following occurs: cloudy or bloody urine or signs of an allergic reaction, such as fevers, chills, rash, hives, or wheezing. • Report any pain or burning felt during the infusion. • Call for emergency assistance if breathing becomes difficult while taking this medicine. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • Fever • Nausea and vomiting • Swelling of hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs (peripheral edema) • Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, and aches) • Rash
• Low blood cell counts (neutropenia) • Blood and protein deposits in the urine • Change in liver function tests • Pain at the infusion site What are the less common side effects? • Drowsiness • Diarrhea
• Hair loss (alopecia) • Difficulty breathing • Mouth sores (mucositis) • Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy) • Itching (pruritis) • Weakness • Seizures, confusion, or coma
• Impaired kidney function • Decreased blood pressure
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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