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GEMCITABINE
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gemcitabine Hydrochloride | 1 g/26.3mL | 2719761 | View |
| Gemcitabine Hydrochloride | 100 mg/mL | 2719761 | View |
| Gemcitabine Hydrochloride | 2 g/52.6mL | 2719761 | View |
| Gemcitabine Hydrochloride | 200 mg/5.26mL | 2719761 | View |
| Gemcitabine Hydrochloride | 38 mg/mL | 2719761 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Nucleic Acid Synthesis Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 26 members |
| Nucleoside Metabolic Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | All 22 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200795-001 | GEMCITABINE HYDROCHLORIDE | INJECTABLE | GEMCITABINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AP | RLD RS | |
| 200795-002 | GEMCITABINE HYDROCHLORIDE | INJECTABLE | GEMCITABINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AP | RLD RS | |
| 200795-003 | GEMCITABINE HYDROCHLORIDE | INJECTABLE | GEMCITABINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AP | RLD RS |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 18 | Labeling | Approved | May 31, 2024 | Standard |
| Supplement | 10 | Labeling | Approved | June 21, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 8 | Labeling | Approved | January 26, 2018 | Standard |
| Supplement | 6 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | April 7, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 5 | Labeling | Approved | May 8, 2014 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 3 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | November 27, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 4 | Labeling | Approved | September 5, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 2 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | June 20, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | December 18, 2012 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Type 3 - New Dosage Form | Approved | August 4, 2011 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Supplement · June 4, 2024
- 0 · Supplement · June 3, 2024
- 0 · Supplement · June 27, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · June 24, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · February 14, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · January 30, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · May 12, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · May 12, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · September 10, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · September 9, 2013
- 0 · Original application · July 6, 2012
- 0 · Original application · July 6, 2012
- 0 · Original application · August 8, 2011
- 0 · Original application · August 5, 2011
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20251024). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingWarnings and Precautions, Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions ( 5.3 ) 5/2024
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Gemcitabine Injection is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor indicated: in combination with carboplatin, for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer that has relapsed at least 6 months after completion of platinum-based therapy. ( 1.1 ) in combination with paclitaxel, for first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy, unless anthracyclines were clinically contraindicated. ( 1.2 ) in combination with cisplatin for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. ( 1.3 ) as a single agent for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. ( 1.4 ) 1.1 Ovarian Cancer Gemcitabine Injection in combination with carboplatin is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced ovarian cancer that has relapsed at least 6 months after completion of platinum-based therapy. 1.2 Breast Cancer Gemcitabine Injection in combination with paclitaxel is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy, unless anthracyclines were clinically contraindicated. 1.3 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Gemcitabine Injection in combination with cisplatin is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with inoperable, locally advanced (Stage IIIA or IIIB) or metastatic (Stage IV) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). 1.4 Pancreatic Cancer Gemcitabine Injection is indicated as first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced (nonresectable Stage II or Stage III) or metastatic (Stage IV) adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Gemcitabine Injection is indicated for patients previously treated with fluorouracil.
1.1 Ovarian Cancer Gemcitabine Injection in combination with carboplatin is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced ovarian cancer that has relapsed at least 6 months after completion of platinum-based therapy.
1.2 Breast Cancer Gemcitabine Injection in combination with paclitaxel is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy, unless anthracyclines were clinically contraindicated.
1.3 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Gemcitabine Injection in combination with cisplatin is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with inoperable, locally advanced (Stage IIIA or IIIB) or metastatic (Stage IV) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
1.4 Pancreatic Cancer Gemcitabine Injection is indicated as first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced (nonresectable Stage II or Stage III) or metastatic (Stage IV) adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Gemcitabine Injection is indicated for patients previously treated with fluorouracil.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Gemcitabine Injection is for intravenous use only. Ovarian cancer: 1000 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. ( 2.1 ) Breast cancer: 1250 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. ( 2.2 ) Non-small cell lung cancer:1000 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle or 1250 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. ( 2.3 ) Pancreatic cancer: 1000 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes once weekly for the first 7 weeks, then one-week rest, then once weekly for 3 weeks of each 28-day cycle. ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Ovarian Cancer Recommended Dose and Schedule The recommended dosage of Gemcitabine Injection is 1000 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle, in combination with carboplatin AUC 4 administered intravenously on Day 1 after Gemcitabine Injection administration. Refer to carboplatin prescribing information for additional information. Dosage Modifications Recommended dosage modifications for Gemcitabine Injection for myelosuppression are described in Tables 1 and 2 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5) ] . Table 1: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Gemcitabine Injection for Myelosuppression on Day of Treatment in Ovarian Cancer Treatment Day Absolute Neutrophil Count (x 10 6 /L) Platelet Count (x 10 6 /L) Dosage Modification Day 1 Greater than or equal to 1500 And Greater than or equal to 100,000 None Less than 1500 Or Less than 100,000 Delay Treatment Cycle Day 8 Greater than or equal to 1500 And Greater than or equal to 100,000 None 1000 to 1499 Or 75,000 to 99,999 50% of full dose Less than 1000 Or Less than 75,000 Hold Table 2: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Gemcitabine Injection for Myelosuppression in Previous Cycle in Ovarian Cancer Occurrence Myelosuppression During Treatment Cycle Dosage Modification Initial Occurrence Absolute neutrophil count less than 500 x 10 6 /L for more than 5 days or Absolute neutrophil count less than 100 x 10 6 /L for more than 3 days or Febrile neutropenia or Platelets less than 25,000 x 10 6 /L Cycle delay for more than one week due to toxicity Permanently reduce Gemcitabine Injection to 800 mg/m 2 on Days 1 and 8 Subsequent Occurrence If any of the above toxicities occur after the initial dose reduction Permanently reduce Gemcitabine Injection dose to 800 mg/m 2 on Day 1 only 2.2 Breast Cancer Recommended Dose and Schedule The recommended dosage of Gemcitabine Injection is 1250 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle in combination with paclitaxel 175 mg/m 2 administered as a 3-hour intravenous infusion on Day 1 before Gemcitabine Injection administration. Refer to paclitaxel prescribing information for additional information. Dosage Modifications Recommended dosage modifications for Gemcitabine Injection for myelosuppression are described in Table 3 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 )] . Table 3: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Gemcitabine Injection for Myelosuppression on Day of Treatment in Breast Cancer Treatment Day Absolute Neutrophil Count (x 10 6 /L) Platelet Count (x 10 6 /L) Dosage Modification Day 1 Greater than or equal to 1500 And Greater than or equal to 100,000 None Less than 1500 Or Less than 100,000 Hold Day 8 Greater than or equal to 1200 And Greater than 75,000 None 1000 to 1199 Or 50,000 to 75,000 75% of full dose 700 to 999 And Greater than or equal to 50,000 50% of full dose Less than 700 Or Less than 50,000 Hold 2.3 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Recommended Dose and Schedule 28-day schedule The recommended dosage of Gemcitabine Injection is 1000 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle in combination with cisplatin 100 mg/m …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Injection: 100mg/mL of gemcitabine as a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution available in sterile multiple-dose vials containing 200 mg/2 mL (100 mg/mL) 1 g/10 mL (100 mg/mL) 1.5 g/15 mL (100 mg/mL) 2 g/20 mL (100 mg/mL) Gemcitabine Injection in multiple dose vials containing: 200 mg/2 mL (100 mg/mL) ( 3 ) 1 g/10 mL (100 mg/mL) ( 3 ) 1.5 g/15 mL (100 mg/mL) ( 3 ) 2 g/20 mL (100 mg/mL) ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Gemcitabine Injection is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to gemcitabine. Reactions include anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Patients with a known hypersensitivity to gemcitabine. ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Schedule-Dependent Toxicity: Increased toxicity with infusion time greater than 60 minutes or dosing more frequently than once weekly. (5.1 ) Myelosuppression: Monitor for myelosuppression prior to each cycle and reduce or withhold dose for severe myelosuppression. ( 5.2 ) Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure: Discontinue Gemcitabine Injection for unexplained dyspnea or other evidence of severe pulmonary toxicity. ( 5.3 ) Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): Monitor renal function prior to initiation and during treatment. Discontinue Gemcitabine Injection for HUS or severe renal impairment. ( 5.4 ) Hepatic Toxicity: Monitor hepatic function prior to initiation and during treatment. Discontinue Gemcitabine Injection for severe hepatic toxicity. ( 5.5 ) Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise females and males of reproductive potential to use effective contraception. ( 5.6 , 8.1 ) Exacerbation of Radiation Therapy Toxicity: May cause severe and life-threatening toxicity when administered during or within 7 days of radiation therapy. ( 5.7 ) Capillary Leak Syndrome: Discontinue Gemcitabine Injection. ( 5.8 ) Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES): Discontinue Gemcitabine Injection. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Schedule-Dependent Toxicity In clinical trials evaluating the maximum tolerated dose of gemcitabine, prolongation of the infusion time beyond 60 minutes or more frequent than weekly dosing resulted in an increased incidence of clinically significant hypotension, severe flu-like symptoms, myelosuppression, and asthenia. The half-life of gemcitabine is influenced by the length of the infusion [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Refer to the recommended Gemcitabine Injection dosage [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 , 2.4 )] . 5.2 Myelosuppression Myelosuppression manifested by neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia, occurs with gemcitabine as a single agent and the risks are increased when gemcitabine is combined with other cytotoxic drugs. In clinical trials, Grade 3-4 neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia occurred in 25%, 8%, and 5%, respectively of the 979 patients who received single agent gemcitabine. The frequencies of Grade 3-4 neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia varied from 48% to 71%, 8% to 28%, and 5% to 55%, respectively, in patients receiving gemcitabine in combination with another drug [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Prior to each dose of Gemcitabine Injection, obtain a complete blood count (CBC) with a differential and a platelet count. Modify the dosage as recommended [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 , 2.4 )] . 5.3 Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure Pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary edema, and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), has been reported. In some cases, these pulmonary events can lead to fatal respiratory failure despite the discontinuation of therapy. The onset of pulmonary symptoms may occur up to 2 weeks after the last dose of gemcitabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.1 , 6.2 )] . Permanently discontinue Gemcitabine Injection in patients who develop unexplained dyspnea, with or without bronchospasm, or evidence of severe pulmonary toxicity. 5.4 Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), including fatalities from renal failure or the requirement for dialysis, can occur with gemcitabine. In clinical trials, HUS occurred in 0.25% of 2429 patients. Most fatal cases of renal failure were due to HUS [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]. Serious cases of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) other than HUS have been reported with gemcitabine [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )]. Assess renal function prior to initiation of Gemcitabine Injection and periodically during treatment. Consider the diagnosis of HUS in patients who develop anemia with evidence of microangiopathic hemolysis; increased bilirubin or LDH; reticulocytosis; severe thrombocytopenia; or evid …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypersensitivity [see Contraindications ( 4 )] Schedule-Dependent Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Hepatic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Exacerbation of Radiation Therapy Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Capillary Leak Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] The most common adverse reactions for the single agent (≥20%) are nausea/vomiting, anemia, increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), neutropenia, increased alkaline phosphatase, proteinuria, fever, hematuria, rash, thrombocytopenia, dyspnea, and edema. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Sagent Pharmaceuticals at 1-866-625-1618 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Single Agent The data described below reflect exposure to gemcitabine as a single agent administered at doses between 800 mg/m 2 to 1,250 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes once weekly, in 979 patients with various malignancies. The most common (≥20%) adverse reactions of single agent gemcitabine are nausea/vomiting, anemia, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), neutropenia, increased alkaline phosphatase, proteinuria, fever, hematuria, rash, thrombocytopenia, dyspnea, and edema. The most common (≥5%) Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions were neutropenia, nausea/vomiting, increased ALT, increased alkaline phosphatase, anemia, increased AST, and thrombocytopenia. Approximately 10% of the 979 patients discontinued gemcitabine due to adverse reactions. Adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of gemcitabine in 2% of 979 patients were cardiovascular adverse reactions (myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, arrhythmia, and hypertension) and adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of gemcitabine in 10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Carboplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Carboplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 1 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) Version 2.0. b Regardless of causality. Adverse Reactions b Gemcitabine/Carboplatin (N=175) Carboplatin (N=174) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Nausea 69 6 0 61 3 0 Alopecia 49 0 0 17 0 0 Vomiting 46 6 0 36 2 10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Paclitaxel and at a Higher Incidence than Patients Receiving Single Agent Paclitaxel [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 2 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0. b Regardless of causality. Laboratory Abnormality b Gemcitabine/Paclitaxel (N=262) Paclitaxel (N=259) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Hematologic Anemia 69 6 1 51 3 90% versus 16%), discontinuation of treatment for adverse reactions (15% versus 8%), and the proportion of patients hospitalized (36% versus 23%) were all higher for patients receiving gemcitabine with cisplatin compared to those receiving cisplatin alone. The incidence of febrile neutropenia (3% versus 10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin and at Higher Incide …
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation: Advise not to breastfeed. ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on animal data and its mechanism of action, Gemcitabine Injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1) ] . There are no available data on the use of gemcitabine in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, gemcitabine was teratogenic, embryotoxic, and fetotoxic in mice and rabbits (see Data ) . Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ] . In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Gemcitabine is embryotoxic in mice. Daily dosing of gemcitabine to pregnant mice increased the incidence of fetal malformations (cleft palate, incomplete ossification) at doses of 1.5 mg/kg/day [about 0.005 times the 1000 mg/m 2 clinical dose based on body surface area (BSA)]. Gemcitabine is embryotoxic and fetotoxic in rabbits. Daily dosing of gemcitabine to pregnant rabbits resulted in fetotoxicity (decreased fetal viability, reduced litter sizes and developmental delays) and increased the incidence of fetal malformations (fused pulmonary artery, absence of gall bladder) at doses of 0.1 mg/kg/day (about 0.002 times the 1000 mg/m 2 clinical dose based on BSA). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There is no information regarding the presence of gemcitabine or its metabolites in human milk, or their effects on the breastfed infant or on milk production. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with Gemcitabine Injection and for at least one week following the last dose. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Pregnancy Testing Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating Gemcitabine Injection [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Contraception Gemcitabine Injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Females Because of the potential for genotoxicity, advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Gemcitabine Injection and for 6 months after the final dose. Males Because of the potential for genotoxicity, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Gemcitabine Injection and for 3 months after the final dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ] . Infertility Males Based on animal studies, gemcitabine may impair fertility in males of reproductive potential [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ] . It is not known whether these effects on fertility are reversible. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of gemcitabine have not been established in pediatric patients. The safety and pharmacokinetics of gemcitabine were evaluated in a trial in pediatric patients with refractory leukemia. The maximum tolerated dose was 10 mg/m 2 /min for 360 minutes weekly for three weeks followed by a one-week rest period. The safety and activity of gemcitabine were evaluated in a trial of pediatric patients with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (22 patients) and acute myelogenous leukemia (10 patients) at a dose of 10 mg/m 2 /min administered over 360 minutes weekly for three weeks followed by a one-week rest period. Patients with M1 or M2 bone marrow on Day 28 who did not experience unacceptable toxicity were eligible to receive a maximum of one additional four-week course. Toxicities observed included myelosuppression, febrile neutropenia, increased serum transaminases, nausea, and rash/desquamation. No meaningful clinical activity was observed in this trial. 8.5 Geriatric Use In clinical studies which enrolled 979 patients with various malignancies who received single agent gemcitabine, no overal …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Gemcitabine kills cells undergoing DNA synthesis and blocks the progression of cells through the G1/S-phase boundary. Gemcitabine is metabolized by nucleoside kinases to diphosphate (dFdCDP) and triphosphate (dFdCTP) nucleosides. Gemcitabine diphosphate inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, an enzyme responsible for catalyzing the reactions that generate deoxynucleoside triphosphates for DNA synthesis, resulting in reductions in deoxynucleotide concentrations, including dCTP. Gemcitabine triphosphate competes with dCTP for incorporation into DNA. The reduction in the intracellular concentration of dCTP by the action of the diphosphate enhances the incorporation of gemcitabine triphosphate into DNA (self-potentiation). After the gemcitabine nucleotide is incorporated into DNA, only one additional nucleotide is added to the growing DNA strands, which eventually results in the initiation of apoptotic cell death.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Gemcitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. Gemcitabine Hydrochloride is 2’-deoxy-2’,2’-difluorocytidine monohydrochloride (β-isomer) with the following molecular structure: Gemcitabine Hydrochloride is a white to off white crystalline powder. The empirical formula for gemcitabine hydrochloride is C 9 H 11 F 2 N 3 O 4 • HCl and the molecular weight is 299.66. Gemcitabine HCl is soluble in water, slightly soluble in methanol, and practically insoluble in ethanol and polar organic solvents. Gemcitabine Injection is a sterile, clear colorless to pale yellow solution that is provided in 100mg/mL multiple-dose vials for intravenous use only. Gemcitabine Injection is available in four presentations: 200 mg/2 mL, 1 g/10 mL, 1.5 g/15 mL or 2 g/20 mL. Each mL contains 100 mg of gemcitabine free base (equivalent to 113.85 mg of gemcitabine hydrochloride), 250 mg PEG-300, 150 mg propylene glycol, and 16 mg sodium hydroxide in dehydrated alcohol. Sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid may have been added for pH adjustment. Structural Formula
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE There is no known antidote for overdoses of gemcitabine. Myelosuppression, paresthesias, and severe rash were the principal toxicities seen when a single dose as high as 5700 mg/m 2 was administered by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes every 2 weeks to several patients in a dose-escalation study. In the event of suspected overdose, monitor with appropriate blood counts and should receive supportive therapy, as necessary.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Gemcitabine Injection is a clear and colorless to light straw-colored solution, free of visible particulate matter, and is available in sterile single-dose vials individually packaged in a carton containing: NDC Gemcitabine Injection (38 mg per mL) Package Factor 71288- 117 -91 200 mg per 5.26 mL, sterile solution in a single-dose glass vial 1 vial per carton 71288- 117 -92 1 gram per 26.3 mL, sterile solution in a single-dose glass vial 1 vial per carton 71288- 117 -93 2 grams per 52.6 mL, sterile solution in a single-dose glass vial 1 vial per carton Storage Conditions Store refrigerated between 2° and 8°C (36° and 46°F). Do not freeze . Gemcitabine Injection is a cytotoxic drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures. 1 Discard unused portion. Sterile, Nonpyrogenic, Preservative-free. The container closure is not made with natural rubber latex.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: GEMCITABINE HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Recalls
Source: FDA Enforcement| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class II | July 8, 2026 | McKesson | Temperature Abuse: Product was stored incorrectly in a controlled room temperature environment instead of a refrigerated environment. | Ongoing |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 68001-342-34 | 68001-342 | BluePoint Laboratories | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68001-342-34) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | May 25, 2018 |
| 68001-348-36 | 68001-348 | BluePoint Laboratories | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68001-348-36) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | May 25, 2018 |
| 68001-359-37 | 68001-359 | BluePoint Laboratories | 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (68001-359-37) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE | May 25, 2018 |
| 0143-9340-01 | 0143-9340 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0143-9340-01) / 5.26 mL in 1 VIAL | October 17, 2025 |
| 0143-9341-01 | 0143-9341 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0143-9341-01) / 26.3 mL in 1 VIAL | October 17, 2025 |
| 0143-9342-01 | 0143-9342 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0143-9342-01) / 52.6 mL in 1 VIAL | October 17, 2025 |
| 0409-0181-01 | 0409-0181 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0181-01) / 26.3 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | August 26, 2011 |
| 0409-0181-25 | 0409-0181 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0181-25) / 26.3 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | July 9, 2013 |
| 0409-0182-01 | 0409-0182 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0182-01) / 52.6 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | August 22, 2011 |
| 0409-0182-25 | 0409-0182 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0182-25) / 52.6 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | July 29, 2013 |
| 0409-0183-01 | 0409-0183 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0183-01) / 5.26 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | August 24, 2011 |
| 0409-0183-25 | 0409-0183 | Hospira, Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-0183-25) / 5.26 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | July 9, 2013 |
| 71288-117-06 | 71288-117 | Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (71288-117-06) / 5.26 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 11, 2020 |
| 71288-117-28 | 71288-117 | Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (71288-117-28) / 26.3 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 11, 2020 |
| 71288-117-54 | 71288-117 | Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (71288-117-54) / 52.6 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 11, 2020 |
| 71288-117-91 | 71288-117 | Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (71288-117-91) / 5.26 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 11, 2020 |
| 71288-117-92 | 71288-117 | Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (71288-117-92) / 26.3 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 11, 2020 |
| 71288-117-93 | 71288-117 | Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (71288-117-93) / 52.6 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 11, 2020 |
| 67457-616-10 | 67457-616 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (67457-616-10) / 5.26 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | January 3, 2018 |
| 67457-617-30 | 67457-617 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (67457-617-30) / 26.3 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 18, 2017 |
| 67457-618-10 | 67457-618 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (67457-618-10) / 52.6 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | December 18, 2017 |
| 25021-239-05 | 25021-239 | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (25021-239-05) / 5.26 mL in 1 VIAL | January 15, 2019 |
| 25021-239-26 | 25021-239 | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (25021-239-26) / 26.3 mL in 1 VIAL | January 15, 2019 |
| 25021-239-52 | 25021-239 | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (25021-239-52) / 52.6 mL in 1 VIAL | January 15, 2019 |
| 68001-342 | 68001-342 | BluePoint Laboratories | — | May 25, 2018 |
| 68001-348 | 68001-348 | BluePoint Laboratories | — | May 25, 2018 |
| 68001-359 | 68001-359 | BluePoint Laboratories | — | May 25, 2018 |
| 0143-9340 | 0143-9340 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | October 17, 2025 |
| 0143-9341 | 0143-9341 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | October 17, 2025 |
| 0143-9342 | 0143-9342 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | October 17, 2025 |
| 0409-0181 | 0409-0181 | Hospira, Inc. | — | August 26, 2011 |
| 0409-0182 | 0409-0182 | Hospira, Inc. | — | August 22, 2011 |
| 0409-0183 | 0409-0183 | Hospira, Inc. | — | July 9, 2013 |
| 71288-117 | 71288-117 | Meitheal Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | December 11, 2020 |
| 67457-616 | 67457-616 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | January 3, 2018 |
| 67457-617 | 67457-617 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | December 18, 2017 |
| 67457-618 | 67457-618 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | December 18, 2017 |
| 25021-239 | 25021-239 | Sagent Pharmaceuticals | — | January 15, 2019 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Enforcement | FDA | Recall records |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.