This is an analogue of cytarabine which inhibit DNA synthesis by inhibition of DNA polymerase and ribonucleotide reductase, specific for the S phase of the cycle.

Indications: advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer; locally advanced pancreatic cancer; advanced bladder cancer (in combination with cisplatin).

Cautions: patients with impaired renal or hepatic function; to be discontinued at the first signs of microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia.

Contra-indications: pregnancy & breast feeding

Side effect: As for cytarabine, myelosuppression; gastro- intestinal disturbances; fever; dyspnea; somnolence (patients should not drive or operate machinery).

Dose: Pancreatic cancer: 1000mg /m2 over 30 minutes weekly for 3 or 7 weeks followed by 1 week rest; repeat cycles 3 out of every 4 weeks.

non-small cell lung cancer in combination with cisplatin: 1000mg /m2 over 30 minutes on days 1, 8, 15; repeat every 28 day or 1250mg /m2 over 30 minutes on days 1, 8; repeat every 21 days.