| Brand Name: |
Gemoxen |
| Generic Name: |
Gemcitabine |
| Form: |
Injection |
| Manufacturer: |
Beacon |
What is Gemoxen?
Gemoxen (Gemcitabine) is a cancer drug known as an anti-metabolite. It is indicated in the treatment of certain types of cancer, including ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer. Gemcitabine works by preventing certain proteins from being made that are necessary for growth of the cancer cells.
How is Gemoxen used?
Gemoxen is given intravenously, usually at a doctor's surgery or hospital. If administering at home, make sure the person giving the injection or infusion has been taught how to do so properly.
Each vial of Gemoxen contains 1g of gemcitabine. Your doctor will advise you of your required dosage which will vary from person to person.
Adverse effects
Some side effects can be expected with Gemoxen (Gemcitabine). Some of these care common and will not require medical attention unless they become troublesome to you. Other side effects can be more serious and require medical attention.
The most common side effects associated with Gemoxen (Gemcitabine) are:
- flu-like symptoms(muscle pain, fever, headache, chills, fatigue)
- fever (within 6-12 hours of first dose)
- fatigue
- mild nausea
- vomiting
- decreased appetite
- skin rash
- low blood counts (decreased white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets)
- temporary increases in liver enzymes
- blood or protein in the urine
Less common side effects you may experience include:
- diarrhea
- weakness
- hair loss
- mouth sores
- difficulty sleeping
- shortness of breath
If you notice any of the above side effects and they become persistent or bothersome, contact your doctor.
If you develop a fever with a temperature of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or chills contact your doctor immediately or contact an emergency medical provider.
Contact your doctor as soon as possible (within 24 hours) if you develop any of the following symptoms:
- nausea that interferes with eating and is not relieved by medications prescribed by your doctor
- repeated vomiting (more than 4-5 episodes within a 24-hour period)
- extreme fatigue
- persistent diarrhea (more than 4-6 episodes in a 24-hour period)
- unusual or unexplained bleeding or bruising
- black or tarry stools, or blood in your stools or urine
Warnings
Before starting treatment with Gemoxen, make sure your doctor has been made aware of all medicines you are currently taking (this includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicine, vitamins and herbal supplements).
Do not take aspirin while receiving treatment with Gemoxen (Gemcitabine).
Do not take any vaccinations while receiving treatment with Gemoxen (Gemcitabine).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. Gemoxen is classified as a pregnancy category D drug, meaning it may cause harm to the fetus. Do not become pregnant or father a child while taking Gemcitabine. If you are sexually active, make sure to use contraception.
Do not breastfeed while taking Gemoxen as it can be passed to the baby through the breast milk.
You may be at increased risk of infection while taking Gemoxen (Gemcitabine). Try to avoid large groups of people and people with colds or flus. |
