Gemcitabine is a cell cycle-specific (S phase) cytotoxic agent that kills cells in the S phase undergoing DNA synthesis. It also blocks cells through the G1/S phase boundary.

First-line therapy for locally advanced, nonresectable stage II, III, or IV adenocarcinoma of the pancreas; also for patients previously treated with 5-fluorouracil.

Active metabolite is excreted in the urine. Half-life: 1.7 to 19.4 hours.

♦ Adult: 1000 mg/m² once a week for 7 weeks or until a dose modification is needed because of toxicities. Give subsequent cycles once a week for 3 weeks out of every 4 weeks. Modify the dosage depending on the degree of hematologic toxicity: