Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy
Pronunciation: jem-SIT-ah-been
Chemotherapy regimens incorporating gemcitabine as a backbone agent for treating pancreatic and biliary cancers.
Full Definition
Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy refers to treatment protocols that utilize gemcitabine, a nucleoside analog, as the primary or combination agent for gastrointestinal malignancies. For decades, gemcitabine served as the standard first-line treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer and remains an important component of various combination regimens. Common combinations include gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel, gemcitabine plus capecitabine, and gemcitabine plus cisplatin for biliary tract cancers. The drug works by inhibiting DNA synthesis and inducing apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells. Side effects may include myelosuppression, flu-like symptoms, and occasional pulmonary toxicity.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the exact combination agents when describing treatment protocols.
In Context
- "The patient tolerated six cycles of gemcitabine-based chemotherapy with grade 2 neutropenia." — Oncology progress note
- "Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy resulted in stable disease on follow-up imaging." — Treatment response assessment