Gema and LugolsSolution

[buddytrim]

I am taking Gemar for Cancer of the Pancreas which has metaticized to the Liver. I am told that taking Lugols Iodine will help to negate the negative aspects of Gemar.  Can I take this during treaments?

Also, will coffee enemas help or hurt?

I have also been told not to take vitamin supplements. I feel so good with them.  Please help.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  I'm assuming you're referring to Gemzar (generic name: gemcitabine), which is a chemotherapy drug commonly used for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.  I'm not sure what particular side effect of gemcitabine you're thinking of which could be counteracted by taking Lugol's solution.  I have used this drug on a lot of my patients and have never used Lugol's to counteract any of Gemzar's adverse effects. Do you have any other medical conditions such as thyroid problems, which makes your taking Lugol's solution necessary?  As for coffee enemas, my advise is for you to do this while you're off chemotherapy.  The enema may aggravate any dehydration or electrolyte imbalance which may be caused by the chemotherapy treatment.  I don't see any harm in taking vitamin supplements.

[buddytrim]

I am told that Gemcitabine HCL, is a fluorine compound, which will displace the iodine in my  system and that Lugols would offset this.

Is it okay to take vitamins?

[buddytrim]

No, I do not have thyroid. but I am also told that Lugols has a very positive effect on cancer.

Will Lugols hurt me or effect the efficacy of Gemcitabine HCL while I am on it in any way??

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  As far as I know, Lugol's solution should not have any effect on the efficacy of Gemcitabine.  But I don't think you need to use it.  I've searched the literature and have not encountered any adverse effect of Gemcitabine which necessitates your concurrent use of Lugol's solution.  Some anti-cancer drugs, like Bexxar (used for lymphoma) can potentially cause hypothyroidism and you need to use Lugol's solution to prevent this. But Gemcitabine does not have this effect.

[buddytrim]

so,,,could I continue to take Lugols and it not affect the Gemcitabine?  Lugosl made me feel very good.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  The Lugol's will not interfere with the efficacy of the Gemcitabine.