Cancer medicines

Gemcitabine

Gemcitabine

A chemotherapy that interferes with DNA building blocks.

Sources checked · Introductory guide

On this page

How it works

An antimetabolite that disrupts DNA synthesis.[1]

Where it is used

Used for pancreatic, non-small cell lung, breast and ovarian cancers.[1]

Key safety points

Report fever, unusual bleeding, breathing difficulty or urine changes promptly. Keep scheduled laboratory checks.[2]

Questions for your care team

  • How should I contact the team if fever develops after treatment?

Sources and scope

Source documents are in English.

  1. NCI · Gemcitabine (opens in a new tab)
  2. MedlinePlus · Gemcitabine (opens in a new tab)

General information based on official public sources. This is not a complete list of uses or side effects. Individual treatment decisions require your care team and current source documents. US-source uses do not establish local approval or reimbursement.

Related entries

Gemcitabine | Cancer Encyclopedia | My Chemo Diary