Indications
Xeloda generically known as Capecitabine is an oral chemotherapy drug used to treat several types of cancer, including colon, breast, rectal, stomach, esophageal, and pancreatic cancer. Capecitabine is classified as an antimetabolite and works by interfering with DNA production, which slows or stops the growth and division of cancer cells.
Capecitabine is recommended for those who are unable to receive other types of chemotherapy treatment due to other medical conditions or age restrictions. It is available in tablet form that interferes with the growth of cancer cells. It works by targeting fast-growing cancer cells, which then die off more quickly than normal cells.
Uses and Dosage
Xeloda is available in tablet form and should be taken twice daily, about 12 hours apart, as per your healthcare provider's instructions. It should be swallowed whole with water within 30 minutes after eating a meal; the tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or split. In case you find it difficult to swallow the tablets, seek advice from your health care professional. Avoid increasing the dose or using Capecitabine tablets more frequently or for a longer period than prescribed, as it will not improve your condition any quicker and increase your risk of side effects.
The dosage of Capecitabine differs depending on the patient's risk factors and the type of cancer being treated. Below are some of the dosages mentioned in the search results.
- For monotherapy (treatment with only one drug) in metastatic breast cancer, the recommended dose of Xeloda is 1250 mg/m2 taken orally twice daily for two weeks followed by a one-week break before beginning the next treatment cycle.
- Monotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer, adjuvant colorectal cancer, or metastatic breast cancer: 1250 mg/m2 administered twice daily for 14 days, followed by a 7-day rest period, given as 3-week cycles.
- Dukes' C colon cancer: 1250 mg/m2 administered twice daily for 2 weeks.
- Capecitabine administered with concomitant radiation therapy: 825 mg/m2 orally twice daily.
- Dosage is based on body size and must be determined by your doctor, with the recommended dosage being 1000 mg/m2 administered twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle.
- For other types of cancer, the dose is typically 825-1250 mg/m2 administered orally twice daily for a specific period, with the total daily dose not exceeding 2500 mg/m2.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Xeloda (Capecitabine):
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Hand-foot syndrome (redness, swelling, and sensitivity on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet)
- Heavy sweating
- Hot and dry skin
- Loss of appetite
- Mouth sores
- Nausea or vomiting (may be severe)
- Painful or difficult urination
- Pale skin
- Rapid heart rate
- Stomach pain or upset
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Xeloda (Capecitabine):
- Being unable to urinate
- Blisters or ulcers in your mouth
- Burning in your eyes
- Chest pain or pressure
- Clay-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Easy bruising
- Eating much less than usual
- Feeling lightheaded
- Fever above 100.5 degrees
- Red or swollen gums
- Severe diarrhea (more than 4 times per day, or during the night),
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in your face or tongue
- Trouble swallowing
- Uneven heartbeats
- Unusual bleeding
- Vomiting (more than once in 24 hours
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Form and Strength
Xeloda (Capecitabine) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Capecitabine: Tablet
- 150 mg
- 500 mg
Caution
- Capecitabine can make you more likely to get infections or may worsen any current infections. Avoid contact with people who have infections that may spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, flu).
- If you miss a dose of Xeloda, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Patients with a history of significant cardiac disease should be closely monitored while taking Xeloda. Discuss any personal medical history and concerns with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
- Physicians should exercise caution in monitoring the effects of XELODA in the elderly. It may cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, and hand-foot syndrome.
- Xeloda (capecitabine) should be taken with caution in patients with a history of significant cardiac disease. It can increase the risk of certain adverse reactions, such as acute heart failure and arrhythmias, in patients with pre-existing cardiac issues.
- Xeloda has a boxed warning for the risk of interaction if it is used with certain other medications, such as blood thinners.
- Xeloda should be taken with food and within 30 minutes after eating to optimize absorption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I have sex while undergoing chemotherapy with Xeloda?
Discuss any concerns about chemotherapy and sex with your healthcare provider.
How does food influence the absorption of Xeloda?
Clinical studies have shown that food influences the absorption of Xeloda. Take Xeloda within 30 minutes after eating.
What is the recommended duration of treatment with Xeloda?
The duration of treatment with Xeloda varies depending on the specific medical condition being treated. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of treatment for you.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/capecitabine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20062501?p=1
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/020896s037lbl.pdf
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a1de8bba-3b1d-4c9d-ab8a-32d2c05e67c8
- https://www.rxlist.com/xeloda-side-effects-drug-center.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7906/xeloda-oral/details
- https://www.oncolink.org/cancer-treatment/oncolink-rx/capecitabine-xeloda-r
- https://www.drugs.com/dosage/xeloda.html
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