Gemcitabine
Gemcitabine is in a class of drugs known as pyrimidine analogs; it slows or stops the
growth of cancer cells. The length of treatment depends on the types of drugs you are
taking, how well your body responds to them, and the type of cancer you have
Gemcitabine is used to treat
- adenocarcinoma of the pancreas
- non small cell lung cancer
- bladder cancer
Side effects of Gemcitabine
The side effects described here will not affect everyone who is given gemcitabine,
and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.
Temporary reduction in the production of blood cells by the bone marrow. This
is usually mild but can occasionally be more severe. If it occurs it can result in
anaemia, risk of bruising or bleeding and an increased risk of infection.
The numbers of blood cells in your blood may start to reduce from about seven days
after the treatment has been given and usually reaches its lowest point at 10-14 days
after the chemotherapy. The number of blood cells will then increase steadily and will
usually return to normal within 21 days.
Your blood will be checked regularly to see how well your bone marrow is working. If
your temperature goes above 38°C (100.5°F), or you develop any unexplained bruising or
bleeding, or you suddenly feel unwell, even with a normal temperature, contact your doctor
or the hospital straight away.
Feelings of sickness (nausea) or being sick. This is usually mild and
there are now very effective anti-sickness drugs which can prevent or greatly reduce
nausea and vomiting. If you do feel sick this will usually begin a few hours after the
treatment is given and may last for up to a day.
If the sickness is not controlled, or continues, tell your doctor. They can prescribe
other anti-sickness drugs that may be more effective.
Loss of appetite. This is usually mild and may last a day or so.
Temporary effect on liver function. Gemcitabine may cause changes in
the way that your liver works, which return to normal when the treatment is finished. You
are very unlikely to notice any problems but your doctor will check your liver function
before each treatment.
Change in kidney function. Some people have a small amount of blood or
protein in their urine when it is tested. You are very unlikely to notice any change and
it is unlikely to cause any harm.
Skin changes. Gemcitabine can cause a rash, which may be itchy. Your
doctor can prescribe medicines to relieve the symptoms. You may also notice some swelling
of your ankles. This is usually mild and goes away after the treatment is finished.
Flu-like illness. Occasionally a flu-like illness may occur with
gemcitabine. You may have headaches, aching joints and muscles and a high temperature. You
should always let your doctor know about a high temperature immediately.
Fluid retention. This may cause swelling of the ankles or
breathlessness. If you notice either of these effects let your doctor know.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness. It is important to allow
yourself plenty of time to rest.
Less common side effects of Gemcitabine
Sore mouth and taste change. Your mouth may become sore, or you
may notice small ulcers during this treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids and cleaning your
teeth regularly and gently with a soft toothbrush can help reduce the risk of this
happening. Tell your doctor if you do have any of these problems as they can prescribe
special mouthwashes and medicine to prevent or clear any mouth infection.
You may notice that your food tastes different. Normal taste will come back after the
treatment finishes.
Diarrhoea. This can usually be easily controlled with medicine but
tell your doctor if it is severe or continues. It is important to drink plenty of fluids
if you do have diarrhoea.
Hair loss. This is uncommon with gemcitabine, but may occasionally
happen. More commonly your hair may just thin. This is temporary and your hair will regrow
once the treatment is finished. |