Citafine 1g - Gemcitabine Injection

Citafine 1g is a chemotherapy drug containing Gemcitabine Hydrochloride, a nucleoside analog used in oncology. Administered via intravenous infusion, it is a cytotoxic agent effective in halting cancer cell division. It is widely used as a first-line or second-line agent in combination or as monotherapy.

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Uses:

Citafine 1g is commonly used for the treatment of:

1. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

2. Pancreatic cancer

3. Ovarian cancer

4. Breast cancer

5. Bladder cancer

6. Cervical and biliary tract cancers (off-label in some regions)

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Storage Instructions:

1. Store below 25°C

2. Keep vial in original packaging to protect from light

3. After reconstitution, use immediately or store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C for up to 24 hours

4. Do not freeze the reconstituted solution

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How it Works (Mechanism of Action):

Gemcitabine is a pyrimidine antimetabolite that mimics the structure of nucleosides. It gets incorporated into DNA during replication and causes chain termination. It also inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, reducing the availability of deoxynucleotides, thus blocking DNA synthesis and inducing apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells.

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Side Effects:

Common Side Effects:

1. Nausea and vomiting

2. Fatigue

3. Low blood cell counts (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)

4. Fever

5. Skin rash

6. Elevated liver enzymes

Severe Side Effects:

1. Pulmonary toxicity (shortness of breath, cough)

2. Severe bone marrow suppression

3. Hemolytic uremic syndrome

4. Hepatotoxicity

5. Allergic reactions (rare)

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Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):

1. Pancreatic Cancer (Example): 1000 mg/m² over 30 minutes once weekly for 7 weeks, followed by a week of rest

2. Dosing may vary based on cancer type, body surface area, and combination regimens

3. Dose adjustments are made based on blood counts and organ function

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Method of Administration:

1. Administered intravenously (IV) as an infusion over 30 minutes

2. Diluted with normal saline or 5% dextrose before administration

3. Given in a clinical setting under supervision of trained personnel

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Precautions:

1. Monitor blood counts regularly

2. Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment

3. Avoid in pregnant or breastfeeding women

4. Maintain hydration to reduce risk of nephrotoxicity

5. Delay or reduce dose if severe toxicity occurs

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Drug Interactions:

1. Increased toxicity with cisplatin or paclitaxel when given concurrently

2. May interact with live vaccines

3. Use caution with anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk)

4. Inform your doctor of all current medications before starting treatment

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Allergies:

1. Contraindicated in patients allergic to Gemcitabine or any of the formulation's excipients

2. Signs of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing

3. Seek immediate medical attention if an allergic reaction occurs

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Overdose Information:

1. Overdose may result in severe bone marrow suppression, liver dysfunction, or organ toxicity

2. No specific antidote exists

3. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic in a hospital setting

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Missed Dose Instructions:

1. If a dose is missed, consult your oncologist immediately

2. Do not self-adjust or compensate by doubling the next dose

3. Resume as directed by your healthcare provider

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Additional Notes:

1. Blood counts and liver function tests should be monitored before each dose

2. Inform your doctor if you experience signs of infection, bleeding, or difficulty breathing

3. Avoid activities that may increase the risk of injury or bleeding during treatment

4. Maintain good hydration and nutrition during therapy