Gemzar - What is it?
Gemzar, active ingredient gemcitabine, is a medication that is available by prescription only. It is used for the treatment of different kinds of cancer. It has been approved for the treatment of: breast cancer, non small cell lung cancer - NSCLC, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic cancer.
Who Manufactures It?
Eli Lilly is the maker of Gemzar.
How It Works
Gemzar belongs to the class of medications known as antimetabolites. These medications are similar to the chemicals that are naturally occurring in the body that cells depend on to help them build DNA, as well as other important cell parts. Antimetabolites simulate these chemicals so cells think that they are the real thing, but cannot properly remake the DNA. This inhibits the cells from growing properly and can often cause cancerous cells to die.
Gemzar does have the potential to kill both cancerous and healthy cells, but it tends to be most effective in rapidly multiplying cells. In general, cancer cells multiply more quickly than normal, healthy cells and are able to be more affected by this medication.
Potential Side Effects
Commonly reported side effects may include: neutropenia, vomiting and nausea, increased enzymes in the liver - a common sign of liver damage, anemia.
Generic Forms of Gemzar
At this time, there are both generic and brand name forms of this medication.