It is an analogue of cytarabine, and is a member of the antimetabolite class of antineoplastics. Gemcitabine is used for the palliative treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. Dosage reductions or a temporary holding of the next dose may be required depending on the results of platelet and granulocyte counts taken prior to each dose. Myelosuppression is the major dose-limiting toxicity of gemcitabine. It is usually of short duration, reversible and not cumulative.
Shortness of breath occurs occasionally, and can be severe in some patients.
Ropivacaine belongs to the amide class of local anesthetics and has both anesthetic and analgesic effects. The onset and duration of ropivacaine's effects depend on the injection site, the route of administration, and the concentration and volume of the drug. The duration and intensity of effects are not improved by the addition of epinephrine. The recommended dosage of ropivacaine varies according to the indication. The drug is not approved for use in patients under 18 years of age.