Capegard 500mg Tablet

About

Capecitabine is an oral fluoropyrimidine carbamate that is converted to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the body. It acts as an antimetabolite, interfering with DNA synthesis and primarily affecting rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells. This medication is widely used in the treatment of various cancers, offering a convenient oral alternative to traditional intravenous chemotherapy regimens. Its mechanism involves selective activation within tumor cells, leading to a more targeted effect and potentially reduced systemic toxicity compared to direct 5-FU administration.

This prodrug is activated by specific enzymes, including thymidine phosphorylase, which are often found in higher concentrations within tumor tissues. This selective activation helps to concentrate the active drug at the tumor site, maximizing its therapeutic effect while minimizing impact on healthy cells. Capecitabine is a cornerstone in the management of certain solid tumors, providing a flexible and effective treatment option for patients undergoing cancer therapy.

Uses

• Metastatic colorectal cancer
• Adjuvant colorectal cancer
• Metastatic breast cancer
• Advanced gastric cancer

Directions For Use

Take this medicine orally with water, usually within 30 minutes after a meal. Follow your doctor's dosage and schedule precisely.

Benefits

• Offers convenient oral administration, reducing need for IV access.
• Provides targeted action within tumor cells due to enzymatic activation.
• Effective across various solid tumors, including colorectal and breast cancer.
• Can be utilized as monotherapy or in combination with other agents.
• Potentially decreases hospital visits compared to intravenous chemotherapy.
• Contributes to improved disease-free and overall survival in specific indications.

Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Stomatitis (mouth sores)
• Abdominal pain
• Anorexia (loss of appetite)
• Constipation
• Hair thinning (alopecia)
• Skin rash
• Increased bilirubin levels
• Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and potentially interact with the medication.
• Pregnancy - Capecitabine is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for a period after.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during capecitabine treatment and for a period after, as the drug may pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary. Contraindicated in severe liver dysfunction.
• Kidney - Dose reduction is required for patients with moderate to severe renal impairment. Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential.
• Lung - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing lung conditions, as rare but serious pulmonary toxicities (e.g., interstitial pneumonitis) can occur.

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