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Xeloda (Capecitabine) Film-Coated Tablet

General Information

Xeloda (Capecitabine) Film-Coated Tablet is used to treat breast or colorectal cancer and colon cancer. It is which has already spread to other parts of the body. This medication slows and stops the development of the cancer cells.

How does Xeloda (Capecitabine) Film-Coated Tablet work?

Xeloda (Capecitabine) Film-Coated Tablet is a prodrug that is converted to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the body. But it is more converted in tumour cells than in normal tissues. It is taken as tablets, while 5-FU normally needs to be injected. 5-FU is an analogue of pyrimidine. Pyrimidine is part of the genetic material of cells (DNA and RNA). In the body, 5-FU takes the place of pyrimidine and interferes with the enzymes involved in making new DNA. As a result, it inhibits the growth of tumour cells and eventually kills them.

 

Why use Xeloda (Capecitabine) Film-Coated Tablet?

Xeloda contains Capecitabine as an active ingredient. It is a cytotoxic medicine, a kind of medicine that kills cells which are multiplying like cancer cells. It belongs to the group of medications which is called anti-metabolites. This medication is supplied as film-coated for oral administration. Each tablet has 150mg or 500mg of Capecitabine. This has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

 

How to use Xeloda (Capecitabine) Film-Coated Tablet?

The recommended dosage for this medication varies according to body size. You may need to take a combination of 150mg and 500mg tablets. This is usually given 2 equal doses twice a day. It is for 2 weeks followed by a rest period of one week. This should be swallowed as a whole with a glass of water within 30 minutes after a meal.

What are the side-effects of Xeloda (Capecitabine) Film-Coated Tablet?

  • Stomach pain or upset
  • Constipation
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Trouble speaking
  • Skin rash
  • Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
  • Severe nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Tiredness
  • Back/joint/muscle pain
  • Dizziness
  • Skin darkening
  • Dry/itchy skin

If these side effects persist or get worse, call your doctor right away.

Warnings and Precautions

  • This is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
  • Let your doctor know if you have any medical history or current treatments.
  • Tell your doctor if you are allergic to it or to other containing ingredients of this drug.
  • You should not share this to others with the same symptoms as yours.
  • Do not use this past the expiration date.
  • Keep this far from moisture and heat.