Information about Xeloda (Capecitabine)
Xeloda contains capecitabine, which is an oral prodrug that gets converted into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the body. 5-FU is an anti-metabolite chemotherapy drug that works by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. It is commonly used to treat breast cancer, colon cancer, and other solid tumors.
Product Highlights
- Xeloda is used to treat both early-stage and metastatic breast cancer, often after surgery or in combination with other therapies.
- Xeloda is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of colon cancer following surgery and also for metastatic colon cancer.
- It may be used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs for the treatment of metastatic or locally advanced rectal cancer.
- Xeloda is also utilized in the treatment of other cancers, such as gastric cancer and pancreatic cancer, in certain cases as part of a combination therapy.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Xeloda is taken orally, making it more convenient for patients compared to intravenous chemotherapy treatments.
- It is effective in treating a range of cancers, especially breast and colon cancer.
- Xeloda is converted into its active form in cancer cells, offering a more targeted approach that may reduce damage to healthy cells compared to traditional chemotherapy.
- It can be combined with other chemotherapy agents to improve the efficacy of treatment in certain cancers.
Direction of Use
- Xeloda is typically taken twice daily for two weeks, followed by a one-week rest period, but this can vary based on your doctor's instructions. The dose is individualized according to the type of cancer being treated and the patient's response.
- The tablet should be taken with food, typically within 30 minutes after a meal to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
- If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you can, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Do not take an extra dose to compensate for the missed one.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hand-foot syndrome (pain, redness, and swelling of the palms and soles), and fatigue. Serious side effects may include heart problems, liver toxicity, and severe gastrointestinal issues.
- Capecitabine can cause bone marrow suppression, leading to a decrease in blood cell counts. Regular blood tests are required to monitor blood cell levels.
- Liver function may be affected by Xeloda, so periodic liver function tests are necessary.
- Xeloda should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it can cause harm to a developing fetus or infant.
- Xeloda may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, and may increase the risk of bleeding. Make sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking.
- This condition, which causes redness, swelling, and pain in the hands and feet, is a known side effect of Xeloda and may require dose adjustments.
Avoid Xeloda (Capecitabine) If
- Xeloda should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or infant.
- Avoid Xeloda if you have severe liver impairment or active liver disease.
- Xeloda should be avoided in patients with severe kidney problems, as the drug is metabolized and excreted by the kidneys.
- Do not take Xeloda if you have had a severe allergic reaction to capecitabine or any of its components.
- If you have a history of bone marrow suppression or low blood cell counts, you may need to avoid or use Xeloda with caution.
- Xeloda should be avoided or closely monitored in patients with severe diarrhea or dehydration, as it may worsen these conditions.
