Antimetabolites

Gemcitabine (Gemzar) is a newer drug in this class that inhibits DNA production.

• Who should not use these medications: Persons with allergy to gemcitabine should not take it.



• Use: Antimetabolites are given as an IV injection each week for the first 3 weeks of each chemotherapy cycle.



• Drug or food interactions: Antimetabolites may increase the effects of warfarin (Coumadin).



• Side effects: Antimetabolites may cause a person to bleed or to develop infections more easily. A doctor will check blood and urine for abnormalities that may be caused by these drugs.
  
  
  • A doctor should be contacted immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
    
    
    • Unexplained fever, chills, or sore throat
    
    
    
    • Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
    
    
    
    • Unusual bleeding or bruising  
    
    
    
    • Small red or purple dots on the skin
    
    
    
    • Yellowing of skin or eyes
    
    
    
    • Wheezing or trouble breathing
    
    
    
    • Severe rash or hives
    
    
    
    • Bloody or cloudy urine 
  
  
  • Other side effects include the following:
    
    
    • Poor appetite
    
    
    
    • Diarrhea or constipation
    
    
    
    • Muscle pain
    
    
    
    • Hair loss
    
    
    
    • Mild rash
    
    
    
    • Numbness, tingling, or mild swelling in the feet or hands
    
    
    
    • Tiredness