Capecitabine 500 mg (Xeloda) is an oral chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer, most commonly breast cancer and colorectal cancer. Capecitabine is a prodrug that is converted into the active form of the drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) inside the body, which inhibits cancer cell growth and reproduction.

Capecitabine 500 mg (Xeloda)

Product Overview: Capecitabine 500 mg (Xeloda) is an oral chemotherapy medication used primarily in the treatment of breast cancer and colorectal cancer. It works by being converted into its active form, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), inside the body, which inhibits the growth and division of cancer cells. Capecitabine is commonly used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs, or as part of a treatment regimen for various stages of cancer.

Key Benefits:

• Effective in treating breast cancer and colorectal cancer, especially in patients who cannot tolerate intravenous chemotherapy.
• Oral administration: Provides convenience and ease of use compared to traditional intravenous chemotherapy.
• Targets cancer cells: Capecitabine is converted into 5-fluorouracil within the body, which directly targets and inhibits the growth of cancer cells.
• May also be used in combination with other chemotherapy agents for enhanced efficacy.

Indications:

• Breast Cancer: Capecitabine is used in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer or as part of adjuvant therapy following surgery for early-stage breast cancer.
• Colorectal Cancer: Capecitabine is used to treat stage III colorectal cancer after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence and in combination with other chemotherapy agents for metastatic colorectal cancer.
• Can be used as a single agent or in combination with oxaliplatin, trastuzumab, and other chemotherapy drugs.

Dosage:

• The typical starting dose for Capecitabine 500 mg is 1250 mg/m² twice daily for 14 days, followed by a 7-day rest period. This cycle is repeated every 21 days, depending on the specific cancer being treated.
• The dosage may vary depending on the patient’s medical condition, treatment regimen, and tolerability.
• Capecitabine should be taken with food or within 30 minutes after eating to minimize stomach irritation.

Precautions:

• Hand-foot syndrome: Capecitabine can cause hand-foot syndrome, characterized by redness, swelling, or pain in the hands and feet. Patients should report any symptoms to their healthcare provider.
• Bone marrow suppression: Capecitabine may cause a decrease in white blood cell count, platelets, and red blood cells, leading to an increased risk of infection, bleeding, or fatigue. Regular blood tests are required.
• Kidney or liver impairment: Capecitabine should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease. Dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Capecitabine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it may harm the baby. Patients should use effective contraception during treatment.

Common Side Effects:

• Hand-foot syndrome (redness, swelling, pain)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Mouth sores (stomatitis)
• Loss of appetite
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)
• Low white blood cell count, increasing infection risk
• Rashes or skin reactions

Packaging:

• Capecitabine 500 mg (Xeloda) tablets are available in a secure blister pack or bottle for easy administration and storage.
• Packaging typically contains [insert quantity] tablets per pack, ensuring patients have a sufficient supply for treatment cycles.

Important Notes:

• Regular monitoring: Patients undergoing treatment with Capecitabine will require regular blood tests to monitor blood cell counts and liver function.
• Adherence to dosing schedule: Patients should adhere strictly to the prescribed dosing schedule and not stop or adjust the dose without consulting their healthcare provider.
• Storage: Store Capecitabine in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight, and keep out of reach of children.