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Gemcitabine Induction Therapy: Couldn't hold for 2 hrs.

I was diagnosed with low-grade, non-invasive bladder cancer on 8 July 2022 at the age of 72 years. My first TURBT was done on 14 July 2022, followed by six bcg doses weekly. My body couldn't tolerate an 80 mg dose. I got two 80mg bcg doses and the subsequent four doses with 40mg each. I started getting Gemcitabine Induction Therapy on 14 Feb 2023 and the 2nd one on 20 March, but both times, I couldn't hold medicine for the desired 2 hrs. Felt irritation immediately after having the dose and passed urine within 5 minutes only. I’m worried about whether the treatment was effective at all. Need to undergo 10 more doses at monthly intervals. Has anyone had similar experiences? If so, please share.

  1. Hi I am so glad you reached out. I am sending you over an article from one of our members who shared a similar concern: https://bladdercancer.net/living/gemcitabine-induction-therapy. This member has shared a lot of stories about her experiences with this therapy, so I would definitely click on her name and view all of her articles. I hope this is helpful. Jill (Team Member)

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