Gemcitabine HEXAL

Gemcitabine HEXAL Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Gemcitabine HEXAL is a brand name. Its generic name is Gemcitabine.

Gemcitabine HEXAL Introduction

Gemcitabine HEXAL (Gemzar®) is an antineoplastic agent used in the treatment of several types of cancer including non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. It is a pro-drug, which means it is inactive until it is used by the body. Gemcitabine HEXAL is available in both tablet and injection forms and is typically administered every seven to 21 days throughout the duration of a treatment cycle.

Uses for Gemcitabine HEXAL

Gemcitabine HEXAL is used to treat several types of cancer including non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. It is also used for the treatment of other malignancies. It can also be used as a palliative treatment, which means it is used to ease pain and other symptoms of cancer and not to cure it.

Mechanism of Action

Gemcitabine HEXAL works by interfering with DNA synthesis. It is taken up by cells and converted to an active form, which then interrupts the DNA replication process. This leads to cell death and helps to reduce the growth of the tumor. Gemcitabine HEXAL is usually used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs, which increases the effectiveness of the treatment.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of gemcitabine depend on the type and severity of the cancer being treated, the response of the individual and the combination of drugs used. Generally, it can take several weeks to notice a difference in the patient's condition, and at least several months of treatment before the effects are seen.

Absorption

Gemcitabine HEXAL is well-absorbed and is distributed throughout the body. The drug is mainly metabolized in the liver and has an elimination half-life of about 40 minutes.

Route of Elimination

Gemcitabine HEXAL is mainly eliminated through the urine. It is metabolized in the liver to a number of metabolites, which are then eliminated through the urine.

Dosage

The dose of gemcitabine depends on the type and severity of the cancer being treated, the response of the individual, and the combination of drugs used. The typical starting dose for gemcitabine is 1000 mg/m2, administered as an intravenous injection once per week. The dose may be increased depending on how well the patient tolerates the drug, up to 2000 mg/m2 per week.

Administration

Gemcitabine HEXAL is usually given as an intravenous injection and is usually given over a period of 30 minutes. It can also be given as an oral tablet, taken once per day.

Side Effect

Gemcitabine HEXAL can cause a number of side effects including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, mouth sores, hair loss, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include low white blood cell count, liver damage, low platelet count, and allergic reactions. As with any medication, you should speak to your doctor if you experience any side effects.

Toxicity

Gemcitabine HEXAL can cause toxicity to certain organs, particularly the liver, kidneys, and bone marrow. The most common signs of toxicity include anemia, low white blood cell count, and low platelet count. It is important to monitor these levels throughout treatment.

Precaution

Gemcitabine HEXAL may not be suitable for everyone, and it is important to consult your doctor if you have any allergies, existing medical conditions, or if you have a history of liver disease or other medical conditions. It is important to notify your doctor if you are breast-feeding or pregnant, as gemcitabine can be harmful to a developing fetus.

Interactions

Gemcitabine HEXAL has the potential to interact with other drugs and supplements. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements that you are taking, in order to avoid any potential interactions.

Disease Interactions

Gemcitabine HEXAL should not be used if you have a history of kidney or liver disease. It is important to discuss any existing medical conditions with your doctor before starting treatment, as this may affect how the drug is used.

Drug Interactions

Gemcitabine HEXAL can potentially interact with other drugs and supplements, including antacids, aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and some certain antibiotics, antidepressants, antifungal medications, and diuretics. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are taking any of these medications to check for potential interactions.

Food Interactions

Gemcitabine HEXAL may interact with certain foods, such as dairy products, as they can increase the amount of the drug absorbed by the body. It is important to discuss any potential food interactions with your doctor before starting treatment.

Pregnancy Use

Gemcitabine HEXAL has not been evaluated for use in pregnant women. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as the drug may be harmful to a developing fetus.

Lactation Use

Gemcitabine HEXAL has not been evaluated for use in lactating women. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as the drug may be harmful to a nursing infant.

Acute Overdose

In case of an acute overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, diarrhoea, changes in heart rate, and seizures.

Contraindication

Gemcitabine HEXAL is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to the drug, who have an active infection, or who have a history of liver or kidney disease. It is also contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the drug may be harmful to a developing fetus or nursing infant.

Use Direction

Gemcitabine HEXAL should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take the drug according to the dosage instructions given by your doctor, as the effects of an overdose can be serious. It is important to finish the course of treatment, even if you start to feel better, as this will ensure the best results.

Storage Condition

Gemcitabine HEXAL should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. It should also be stored away from children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

Gemcitabine HEXAL is widely distributed throughout the body and is metabolized in the liver. It has an elimination half-life of about 40 minutes.

Half Life

The half-life of gemcitabine is approximately 40 minutes.

Clearance

Gemcitabine HEXAL is mainly eliminated through the urine and is also excreted in the feces. Its clearance is mainly determined by hepatic metabolism and renal excretion. It has a clearance rate of approximately 0.2 L/hr/kg.

Here you find in details version of Gemcitabine HEXAL

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Gemcitabine HEXAL

What is Gemcitabine HEXAL?

Gemcitabine HEXAL is an anti-cancer drug that is used to treat a variety of cancers including lung, breast, ovarian, bladder, and pancreatic cancer.

How does Gemcitabine HEXAL work?

Gemcitabine HEXAL works by blocking the activity of an enzyme called ribonucleotide reductase, which is critical for the synthesis of DNA in cancer cells. By blocking this enzyme, the drug stops the cancer cells from dividing and growing.

What are the side effects of Gemcitabine HEXAL?

The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, fatigue, fever, chills, and low blood cell counts. Less common but serious side effects can include bleeding, infection, pancreatitis, liver damage, and nerve damage.

What is the recommended dosage of Gemcitabine HEXAL?

The recommended dosage of Gemcitabine HEXAL will depend on the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Generally, a dose of 1000 mg/m2 is recommended.

How long does it take for Gemcitabine HEXAL to start working?

It usually takes several weeks or months for Gemcitabine HEXAL to start working. The response to treatment can be seen on scans after several cycles of treatment.

Can Gemcitabine HEXAL be used in combination with other drugs?

Yes, Gemcitabine HEXAL is often used in combination with other drugs to treat certain types of cancer. Common drugs used in combination with Gemcitabine HEXAL include paclitaxel, cisplatin, carboplatin, and docetaxel.

What are the common drug interactions associated with Gemcitabine HEXAL?

Gemcitabine HEXAL can interact with many other medications. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before starting treatment. Common drug interactions include olanzapine, ciprofloxacin, bromocriptine, and metformin.

How long is a cycle of Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment?

A cycle of Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment is usually 14 days. Generally, a period of rest is needed between cycles to allow the body to recover.

What form does Gemcitabine HEXAL come in?

Gemcitabine HEXAL is available in several forms including an injection, capsules, and a solution for intravenous infusion.

Who should not take Gemcitabine HEXAL?

Gemcitabine HEXAL is not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications should not take Gemcitabine HEXAL. Your doctor will be able to advise if Gemcitabine HEXAL is suitable for you.

Who manufactures Gemcitabine HEXAL?

Gemcitabine HEXAL is manufactured by several pharmaceutical companies including Teva, Hospira, Mylan, and Baxter.

What is the shelf life of Gemcitabine HEXAL?

The shelf life of Gemcitabine HEXAL varies depending on the form of the medication. The powder for injection has a shelf life of 2 years after it is reconstituted with sterile water. The oral solution has a shelf life of 18 months.

How long does it take for Gemcitabine HEXAL to take effect?

It usually takes several weeks to months for Gemcitabine HEXAL to take effect. Response to treatment can be seen on scans after several cycles of treatment.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL interfere with birth control?

Gemcitabine HEXAL can reduce the effectiveness of certain forms of birth control. Talk to your doctor about other forms of birth control to use while on Gemcitabine HEXAL.

Will Gemcitabine HEXAL make me tired?

Yes, fatigue is one of the most common side effects of Gemcitabine HEXAL. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing fatigue as there may be ways to help manage it.

Is Gemcitabine HEXAL a chemotherapy drug?

Yes, Gemcitabine HEXAL is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat a variety of cancers.

Will Gemcitabine HEXAL cure my cancer?

Gemcitabine HEXAL can help slow the growth of cancer and reduce the size of tumors, but it may not be able to cure your cancer. Your doctor will be able to discuss treatment options with you.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Gemcitabine HEXAL?

If you miss a dose of Gemcitabine HEXAL, contact your doctor for advice. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

How long does Gemcitabine HEXAL stay in your system?

The half-life of Gemcitabine HEXAL is about 38 minutes, so it should be out of your body within a few hours.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL as it can increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor if you are considering drinking alcohol while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL.

What kind of monitoring is required during Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment?

Regular monitoring of blood cell counts and vital signs is typically recommended during Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment. Your doctor may also request imaging tests such as x-rays or CT scans to monitor your progress.

Can Gemcitabine HEXAL cause stomach upset?

Yes, nausea and vomiting are common side effects of Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment.

Can Gemcitabine HEXAL cause hair loss?

Yes, hair loss is a common side effect of Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL cause weight gain?

No, weight gain is not a known side effect of Gemcitabine HEXAL.

Can you take Gemcitabine HEXAL while pregnant?

No, Gemcitabine HEXAL is not recommended during pregnancy and should only be used if the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the unborn baby.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL cause constipation?

Yes, constipation is a possible side effect of Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment.

What is the cost of Gemcitabine HEXAL?

The cost of Gemcitabine HEXAL varies depending on the form and dosage. Generally, it costs between $200 and $500 per treatment cycle.

Is Gemcitabine HEXAL covered by insurance?

Whether or not Gemcitabine HEXAL is covered by insurance will depend on the type of insurance plan you have. Check with your insurance provider for more information.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL cause loss of appetite?

Yes, loss of appetite is a possible side effect of Gemcitabine HEXAL.

Can Gemcitabine HEXAL cause joint pain?

Yes, joint pain is a possible side effect of Gemcitabine HEXAL.

Is Gemcitabine HEXAL safe to take with other medications?

Gemcitabine HEXAL can interact with many other medications. Make sure to tell you doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before starting Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment.

Can Gemcitabine HEXAL interact with vitamins?

Yes, Gemcitabine HEXAL can interact with certain vitamins. Always tell your doctor about any vitamins you are taking before starting Gemcitabine HEXAL treatment.

What precautions should be taken while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL?

It is important to avoid contact with people who are ill while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL as the drug can weaken your immune system. You should also limit your exposure to sunlight or UV radiation and drink plenty of fluids.

Are there any lifestyle changes I should make while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL?

It is important to eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL. You should also aim to get plenty of sleep and reduce stress as much as possible.

Is Gemcitabine HEXAL available in generic form?

Yes, Gemcitabine HEXAL is available in generic form.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL require refrigeration?

No, it is not necessary to refrigerate Gemcitabine HEXAL. Once opened, the solution should be used within 24 hours.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL come in pill form?

Yes, Gemcitabine HEXAL is available in capsule form.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL require a prescription?

Yes, Gemcitabine HEXAL is a prescription medication and can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a health care professional.

Can Gemcitabine HEXAL be taken with food?

Yes, it is recommended to take Gemcitabine HEXAL with food to reduce the risk of side effects.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL interact with grapefruit or grapefruit juice?

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with Gemcitabine HEXAL and increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking grapefruit or grapefruit juice if you are taking Gemcitabine HEXAL.

Does Gemcitabine HEXAL require monitoring of liver function?

Yes, regular monitoring of liver function is typically required while taking Gemcitabine HEXAL.