Gemzar is a prescription medicine that is used for treating various types of cancer. This eMedTV article gives an overview of Gemzar, providing information on how the medication works, it potential side effects, and how it is administered.
A few of the common Gemzar side effects include hair loss, anemia, and drowsiness. This eMedTV segment lists other possible side effects of Gemzar, including infrequent but serious problems that should be reported to a healthcare provider right away.
As this eMedTV page explains, Gemzar is used for treating breast cancer, ovarian cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer. This page explains how the drug works to stop cancer cells from multiplying and covers off-label Gemzar uses.
The Gemzar dosage your doctor prescribes will be based on several factors (such as weight and height). This eMedTV article explains other factors that may determine your dosage and discusses some general Gemzar dosing guidelines.
In general, you should avoid live vaccinations while taking Gemzar or other chemotherapy drugs. This eMedTV resource lists other drugs that can potentially cause Gemzar drug interactions (including NSAIDs, warfarin, and salicylates).
Gemzar can cause kidney damage or liver problems in some people. This portion of the eMedTV Web site offers other important Gemzar warnings and precautions you should be aware of before starting the medication, and explains who should not take Gemzar.
Hair loss is one of the most common side effects of Gemzar. This portion of the eMedTV archives offers more information on Gemzar and hair loss, explaining when hair loss typically occurs during treatment and some tips on dealing with hair loss.
Studies suggest that Gemzar could potentially cause miscarriages or birth defects to an unborn child. This eMedTV page explains that if you're taking Gemzar and pregnancy occurs (or you're thinking of becoming pregnant), you should tell your doctor.
It is generally not recommended that women take Gemzar while breastfeeding. This part of the eMedTV archives explains that there have been no human studies done on Gemzar and breastfeeding, but there are potentially serious side effects of the drug.
There is no generic Gemzar available at this time because the drug is protected by a patent. As this eMedTV page explains, once the patent for Gemzar expires in November 2010, several companies can begin manufacturing generic versions of Gemzar.
| Referring Pages | Articles |
