About
Capecitabine is an orally administered fluoropyrimidine carbamate that functions as a prodrug of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a widely used cytotoxic agent. Its unique mechanism involves selective activation within tumor cells, primarily by the enzyme thymidine phosphorylase, which is often found in higher concentrations in various solid tumors compared to healthy tissues. This targeted conversion minimizes systemic exposure to 5-FU, potentially reducing systemic toxicity while maintaining effective drug concentrations at the tumor site. Once converted to 5-FU, it interferes with DNA and RNA synthesis, leading to cell cycle arrest and ultimately inducing apoptosis in rapidly proliferating cancer cells.
This selective activation pathway makes capecitabine a valuable option for patients, offering the convenience of oral administration without compromising efficacy. It is a cornerstone in the treatment of several malignancies, including metastatic colorectal cancer, adjuvant colorectal cancer, and metastatic breast cancer. Its ability to disrupt nucleic acid synthesis makes it a potent antimetabolite, crucial for inhibiting cancer cell growth and division, thereby contributing to disease control and improved patient outcomes.
Uses
- Metastatic colorectal cancer
- Adjuvant treatment of colon cancer
- Metastatic breast cancer
- Advanced gastric cancer
Directions For Use
Take orally with water within 30 minutes after a meal. Adhere strictly to the dosage and schedule prescribed by your physician.
Benefits
- Oral administration offers significant patient convenience.
- Targeted activation in tumor cells may reduce systemic toxicity.
- Effective in various solid tumors, including colorectal and breast cancer.
- Can be used as monotherapy or in combination regimens.
- Avoids the need for intravenous access and associated complications.
- Improved patient quality of life due to oral dosage form.
Side Effects
- Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)
- Diarrhea (can be severe)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomatitis (mouth sores)
- Fatigue and asthenia
- Abdominal pain
- Myelosuppression (leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia)
- Hyperbilirubinemia
- Alopecia (mild hair loss)
- Dehydration
- Dermatitis
- Anorexia
Safety Measures
- Alcohol - Avoid alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects or interact with the medication.
- Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential for severe fetal harm. Effective contraception is mandatory during treatment.
- Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential excretion into breast milk and risk of harm to the infant.
- Liver - Use with caution; dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
- Kidney - Dose adjustments are required in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment due to its renal excretion.
- Lung - Rare cases of interstitial lung disease have been reported; use with caution in patients with pre-existing lung conditions.
Disclaimer
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Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.
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