CAPECITABINE(500MG)
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About CAPECITABINE(500MG)
Introduction
Capecitabine 500mg is an oral chemotherapy medicine used in cancer treatment. It belongs to a group of medicines called antimetabolites and is converted by the body into a substance that stops cancer cells from growing and multiplying. This medicine is available as tablets and is prescribed by oncology specialists for specific types of cancer.
Uses
Capecitabine is prescribed for treating breast cancer, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum), and stomach cancer. It may be used alone or in combination with other cancer medicines. The medicine is often prescribed after surgery to prevent cancer from returning or for treating cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
Benefits
Capecitabine helps slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells in the body. Being an oral medicine, it offers the convenience of taking treatment at home rather than requiring hospital visits for intravenous chemotherapy. It can improve survival rates, delay disease progression, and help shrink tumours. When used after surgery, it can reduce the risk of cancer coming back.
Side effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach pain, weakness, and tiredness. Hand-foot syndrome (redness, pain, swelling of palms and soles) is characteristic of this medicine. Other effects may include mouth sores, hair thinning, decreased blood counts, and skin rash. Most side effects are manageable and your doctor can adjust doses or provide supportive treatment. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe diarrhea, fever, unusual bleeding, or severe hand-foot symptoms.
How to use
Take Capecitabine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablets whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal (breakfast and dinner). Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. The usual schedule is twice daily for 14 days followed by a 7-day rest period. Your doctor will determine the exact dose and duration based on your condition and body surface area. Never adjust the dose yourself.
How it works
Capecitabine is a prodrug that is converted in the body through several steps into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), particularly in tumour tissues. This active form interferes with the synthesis of DNA and RNA, which are essential for cancer cells to grow and multiply. By blocking these processes, Capecitabine stops cancer cells from dividing and eventually leads to their death, thereby helping to control cancer growth.
Safety advice
Pregnancy: Capecitabine should not be used during pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after. Breastfeeding: Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose. Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects and affect liver function. Kidney: Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems; dose adjustment may be needed. Liver: Use with caution in liver disease; regular monitoring required. Driving: May cause dizziness or tiredness; avoid driving if affected. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor blood counts. Inform all healthcare providers that you are taking this medicine before any procedure.
This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always verify dosage and suitability with your doctor or our registered pharmacist.
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Frequently asked questions
What is CAPECITABINE(500MG) used for?
Capecitabine is prescribed for treating breast cancer, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum), and stomach cancer. It may be used alone or in combination with other cancer medicines. The medicine is often prescribed after surgery to prevent cancer from returning or for treating cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
How does CAPECITABINE(500MG) work?
Capecitabine is a prodrug that is converted in the body through several steps into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), particularly in tumour tissues. This active form interferes with the synthesis of DNA and RNA, which are essential for cancer cells to grow and multiply. By blocking these processes, Capecitabine stops cancer cells from dividing and eventually leads to their death, thereby helping to control cancer growth.
What are the common side effects of CAPECITABINE(500MG)?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach pain, weakness, and tiredness. Hand-foot syndrome (redness, pain, swelling of palms and soles) is characteristic of this medicine. Other effects may include mouth sores, hair thinning, decreased blood counts, and skin rash. Most side effects are manageable and your doctor can adjust doses or provide supportive treatment. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe diarrhea, fever, unusual bleeding, or severe hand-foot symptoms.
How should CAPECITABINE(500MG) be taken?
Take Capecitabine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablets whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal (breakfast and dinner). Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. The usual schedule is twice daily for 14 days followed by a 7-day rest period. Your doctor will determine the exact dose and duration based on your condition and body surface area. Never adjust the dose yourself.
What safety precautions apply to CAPECITABINE(500MG)?
Pregnancy: Capecitabine should not be used during pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after. Breastfeeding: Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose. Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects and affect liver function. Kidney: Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems; dose adjustment may be needed. Liver: Use with caution in liver disease; regular monitoring required. Driving: May cause dizziness or tiredness; avoid driving if affected. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor blood counts. Inform all healthcare providers that you are taking this medicine before any procedure.
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