XELODA 500MG TAB

Capecitabine is an oral chemotherapeutic agent that acts as a prodrug, meaning it is converted into its active form within the body. The mechanism of action of capecitabine involves a series of enzymatic conversions. After oral administration, capecitabine is metabolized in a three-step process. First, it is converted to 5'-deoxy-5-fluorocytidine (5'-DFCR) by the enzyme carboxylesterase in the liver. Then, 5'-DFCR is converted to 5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine (5'-DFUR) by the enzyme cytidine deaminase, which is present in many tissues, including tumor cells. Finally, 5'-DFUR is rapidly converted to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) by the enzyme thymidine phosphorylase, which is often overexpressed in tumor cells. 5-FU is the active form of the drug and exerts its anti-tumor effects by inhibiting thymidylate synthase, thereby disrupting DNA synthesis and ultimately leading to cell death in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Capecitabine 500MG

Antimetabolite/Antineoplastic Agent

Tablet

The following are the uses of Capecitabine 500MG Tablet:

• Used for treating colorectal cancer, particularly in patients with advanced or metastatic forms of the disease.
• Used for managing breast cancer, often in combination with other therapies, to slow tumor growth and improve survival rates.
• Used for targeted chemotherapy, specifically in cancers where cells have high sensitivity to the active metabolite, 5-FU.
• Used for adjuvant therapy after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in certain types of cancers.
• Used for managing cancers that have not responded to other treatments, providing an alternative treatment option.
• Used for improving patient outcomes by extending survival rates and enhancing quality of life.
• Used for personalized medicine, allowing for tailored treatment plans based on individual patient responses.

In the case of an overdose of Capecitabine 500MG Tablets, it is important to act promptly. Seek medical assistance immediately and provide the healthcare professional with information about the quantity ingested. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and potential damage to the gastrointestinal tract. Quick intervention can help mitigate these effects, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient. Always store medications safely to prevent accidental ingestion.

In the case of a missed dose of Capecitabine 500MG Tablet, it is important to take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss multiple doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance on how to safely resume your medication and ensure you understand the correct timing for your doses. It is essential to maintain a consistent medication routine for the best treatment outcomes.

To take Capecitabine 500MG Tablet, swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, preferably at the same time each day, following the exact dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional, typically prescribed to be taken twice daily, and ensure you complete the full course as directed.

Following are the conditions when Capecitabine 500MG Tablet should not be used:

• Should not be used in patients with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Capecitabine or any of its inactive components.
• Contraindicated in individuals with severe kidney impairment or end-stage kidney disease.
• Not recommended for patients with severe liver impairment or active liver disease.
• Should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the developing fetus.
• Contraindicated in breastfeeding women as it can pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
• Avoid in patients with a history of severe cardiovascular disease or those at high risk of thromboembolic events.
• Not suitable for patients with a known deficiency of the enzyme dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) as it can lead to toxic levels of the drug.
• Should not be used in patients with a history of severe gastrointestinal disorders or those currently experiencing significant gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Avoid in patients with a known history of severe or uncontrolled infections.
• Not recommended for individuals with a known history of severe blood disorders or those currently experiencing significant bone marrow suppression.

The side effects of Capecitabine 500MG Tablet may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Fatigue and weakness
• Hand-foot syndrome (tingling, redness, or swelling of palms/soles)
• Loss of appetite
• Mouth sores or ulcers
• Skin rash or itching

Following are the precautions and warnings for Capecitabine 500MG Tablet:

• Patients with known hypersensitivity or severe allergic reactions to Capecitabine or any of its components should not take this medication.
• Regular monitoring of blood cell counts and liver function is essential during treatment, and dosage adjustments may be required based on the results.
• Patients with severe kidney or liver impairment should use this medicine with caution and under close medical supervision.
• Avoid during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus; pregnant women should consult their doctor for alternative treatment options.
• Breastfeeding women should exercise caution as it is unknown if Capecitabine passes into breast milk and its effects on infants.
• Patients experiencing severe diarrhea or vomiting should seek medical advice promptly, as these may lead to dehydration.
• This medication may cause hand-foot syndrome; patients should be vigilant and report any symptoms like redness, swelling, or pain in the palms or soles to their healthcare provider.

Following are the drug interactions for Capecitabine 500mg Tablet:

• Concomitant use with warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding due to enhanced anticoagulant effects, requiring close monitoring of INR.
• Phenytoin may reduce the effectiveness of Capecitabine by decreasing its plasma levels, possibly leading to decreased therapeutic effect.
• Leucovorin may enhance the toxicity of Capecitabine, increasing the risk of side effects like mucositis and diarrhea.
• Cimetidine may inhibit the metabolism of Capecitabine, increasing its concentration and the risk of toxicity.
• Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum may interfere with the absorption of Capecitabine, reducing its effectiveness.
• Other chemotherapy agents, such as fluorouracil, may increase the risk of severe toxicities when combined with Capecitabine.
• CYP2C9 inhibitors, such as fluconazole or amiodarone, may increase Capecitabine levels and lead to an increased risk of side effects.

Following are the food interactions for Capecitabine 500MG Tablet:

• Avoid consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice as they may affect the metabolism of Capecitabine, potentially increasing its levels in the body and the risk of side effects.
• Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues like stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and juices, may interact with Capecitabine, potentially reducing its effectiveness.
• Dairy products and calcium-rich foods should be consumed with caution as they can decrease the absorption of Capecitabine.
• Avoid high-fat meals as they may increase the absorption of Capecitabine, leading to higher drug levels in the body.
• Avoid herbal supplements like St. John's Wort, as they can affect the metabolism of Capecitabine.
• Always take the medication with a full glass of water, and follow any dietary instructions provided by your healthcare professional.
• Certain foods containing tyramine, like aged cheeses and cured meats, should be avoided as they may interact with Capecitabine's metabolism.

Capecitabine 500MG Tablets should be stored in a secure and dry location, preferably in a medicine cabinet, at room temperature (68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C). Keep the tablets in their original container, tightly sealed, to protect them from moisture and light. It is crucial to maintain the medication away from heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight as it can degrade the medicine. Always check the expiration date, and if the tablets are past their expiry, do not use them and dispose of them carefully. For safe disposal methods, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Remember to keep all medications out of children's reach to prevent accidental consumption.

Following are the quick tips for Capecitabine 500MG Tablet:

• Take the tablet as directed by your doctor; follow the prescribed dosage and duration for best results.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Take the tablet on an empty stomach, preferably 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
• Maintain a consistent schedule by taking your dose at the same time each day.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on this medication.
• Do not take antacids within 3 hours of taking Capecitabine.
• Regularly monitor your blood cell counts and liver function during treatment.