Capecitabine
This page provides a brief overview of the drug capecitabine, including its indications, dosage and administration guidelines, mechanism of action, available brand names with strengths, warnings, and common side effects.
Context and Approval Date
Capecitabine is an anticancer drug classified as an antimetabolite. The FDA approved it in April 1998 for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.
Mechanism of Action of Capecitabine
Capecitabine is converted into its active form, fluorouracil, which disrupts cell signaling, ultimately inhibiting the growth and multiplication of cancer cells. Doctors can prescribe it alone or in combination with other anticancer drugs like docetaxel and oxaliplatin.
All Substitutes
View All| Product | Packaging Size | Manufacturer | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xeloda 500mg tablets | 10 tablets | Roche Products India Pvt Ltd | INR 1100 |
| Capsy 500mg tablets | 10 tablets | Intas Pharmaceuticals | INR 395 |
| Capnat 500mg tablet | 10 tablets | Natco Pharma Ltd | INR 340 |
| Capetero 500mg capsule | 10 tablets | Hetero Healthcare Ltd | INR 420 |
| Cacit 500mg tablet | 10 tablets | Zydus Cadila | INR 435 |
| Capekast 500mg capsule | 10 tablets | Aprazer Healthcare Pvt Ltd | INR 425 |
| Capegard 500mg capsule | 10 tablets | CIPLA Ltd | INR 570 |
Uses of Capecitabine
Capecitabine is developed as a first-line treatment for advanced and metastatic colorectal cancer and is also indicated as an adjuvant therapy for stage III colon cancer after the failure of Irinotecan treatment. Additionally, doctors prescribe it for breast cancer when taxane-based therapies fail.
Capecitabine administration guidelines and available dosage options
Capecitabine is available in 500 mg tablets, which should be swallowed with water about 30 minutes after eating. If you find it difficult to swallow the tablet, seek advice from a healthcare provider with experience in handling cytotoxic medications on how to crush or split it. Your healthcare provider will determine the precise dosage, typically recommending it twice daily for two weeks, followed by a seven-day rest period.
Information about capecitabine
Uses of capecitabine
Capecitabine is used in the treatment of cancer of the colon, rectum and breast cancer.How capecitabine works
Capecitabine is an anticancer medication that, once inside the body, is converted into 5-fluorouracil. This compound disrupts the production of genetic material (RNA and DNA) in cancer cells, interfering with their growth. Consequently, this compound slows down the growth of cancer cells, ultimately leading to their destruction.Common side effects of capecitabine
The symptoms include fatigue, vomiting, and increased bilirubin in the blood. Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Weight loss, Stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), Hair loss, Dehydration, Constipation, Eye irritation, Nausea, Anemia (low number of red blood cells) is a common condition. Hand-foot syndrome, Fever, Pain, Breathlessness, Low blood plateletsThe white blood cell count (neutrophils) has decreased, and there is edema (swelling).ils), edema (swelling). 1. For the treatment of colon, rectum, or breast cancers, physicians use capecitabine alone or in combination with other medications.
2. Many patients prefer it because it is oral chemotherapy.
3. You should take it within 30 minutes of finishing a meal.
4. The type and stage of cancer under treatment will determine the dose and number of treatment cycles required.
5. It may cause dizziness and tiredness. Don't drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
6. Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine.
7. The frequency of hair loss is much less compared to other chemotherapy drugs.
8. Do not take it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
9. Your doctor may regularly monitor your blood cells during treatment with this medicine. Inform your doctor immediately if you notice signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, rash, or severe diarrhea.
10. Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, rash, or severe diarrhea.
11. Inform your doctor immediately if you start to have side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, mouth sores, chest pain, or loss of appetite.
2. Many patients prefer it because it is oral chemotherapy.
3. You should take it within 30 minutes of finishing a meal.
4. The type and stage of cancer under treatment will determine the dose and number of treatment cycles required.
5. It may cause dizziness and tiredness. Don't drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
6. Use a reliable contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine.
7. The frequency of hair loss is much less compared to other chemotherapy drugs.
8. Do not take it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
9. Your doctor may regularly monitor your blood cells during treatment with this medicine. Inform your doctor immediately if you notice signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, rash, or severe diarrhea.
10. Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, rash, or severe diarrhea.
11. Inform your doctor immediately if you start to have side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, mouth sores, chest pain, or loss of appetite.
Warning, Precautions, and Side Effects Associated with Capecitabine
Warning
Capecitabine tablets should not be taken if you are allergic to Capecitabine or any of its components. During treatment, your doctor may regularly check your blood counts, prothrombin time, INR, blood sugar, electrolytes, liver function, and kidney health to prevent potential complications. Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach ulcers, cataracts, lung disease, or heart, liver, skin, or kidney issues. Additionally, notify your physician if you are planning to undergo eye surgery or any dental procedures.Precautions
Capecitabine tablets may affect fertility in both male and female patients and are not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of harm to the unborn baby. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to conceive before starting this treatment. Both men and women should use effective contraception during treatment and for three months after the final dose. Avoid breastfeeding while on Capecitabine treatment and for two weeks after the last dose.Side effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Capecitabine are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, skin reactions, stomatitis, abdominal pain, constipation, hair loss, rashes, erythema, tiredness, lethargy, dizziness, loss of appetite, conjunctivitis, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and neutropenia. If you experience any allergic or unusual reactions after taking this medicine, report to your doctor immediately.Word of advice
Capecitabine tablets may cause skin dryness, so using a quality moisturizer is recommended. Stay well-hydrated and follow a balanced diet. Store the medication in its original packaging at room temperature (25°C), away from children and pets, and do not freeze it. Follow the prescribed dosing schedule, and if you miss a dose, get in touch with your doctor to reschedule. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness, nausea, or fatigue during Capecitabine treatment.FAQ - Capecitabine
1Is Capecitabine prescribed as a monotherapy?
Capecitabine is prescribed as monotherapy or in combination with other anticancer agents, such as docetaxel for breast cancer and oxaliplatin for colorectal cancer.
2What tests are necessary before starting treatment with Capecitabine?
Before beginning treatment with Capecitabine, your healthcare provider may recommend tests for pregnancy, DPD (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase) deficiency, prothrombin time, INR, kidney function, and serum electrolytes.
3Is it safe to have surgery while undergoing treatment with Capecitabine?
It is recommended to avoid scheduling surgery while undergoing treatment with Capecitabine. Inform your physician if you need to undergo any surgery or dental procedures.
4What should you do if you miss a dose of Capecitabine?
If you miss a dose of Capecitabine Tablet, skip that dose and do not take two tablets to compensate for it. If you have missed more than two doses of this medication, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
5Who should avoid taking Capecitabine?
Capecitabine is not recommended for individuals who are allergic to this medication, 5-fluorouracil, or its components. Those with severe kidney disease and DPD (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase) deficiency should also avoid it.
References
1. Genentech USA, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on March 2015] [ Accessed on 9th March 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/020896s037lbl.pdf
2. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 864.
3. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Cytotoxic agents, 12th edition, 2011, 1698.
2. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 864.
3. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Cytotoxic agents, 12th edition, 2011, 1698.
