Gemcitabine

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Gemcitabine

Gemcitabine (pronounced: jem-SYE-ta-been) is a chemotherapy drug that is used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, and bladder cancer. It is a type of antineoplastic agent that belongs to the family of drugs called antimetabolites.

Etymology

The term "Gemcitabine" is derived from the chemical name 2',2'-difluorodeoxycytidine. The prefix "Gem-" is an abbreviation of "Geminal", referring to the two fluorine atoms attached to the same carbon atom in the chemical structure of the drug. The "-citabine" part of the name is a common suffix for drugs that are analogs of the nucleoside cytidine.

Mechanism of Action

Gemcitabine works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells, which are then destroyed by the body. It is a cytotoxic drug that mimics the building blocks of DNA, thus preventing the cancer cells from growing and dividing.

Related Terms

Side Effects

Like all chemotherapy drugs, Gemcitabine can cause side effects, some of which are severe. These may include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and low blood counts. It is important to discuss these potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

See Also

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