Xeloda 500mg Tablet

About

Xeloda 500mg Tablet, containing capecitabine, is an oral fluoropyrimidine carbamate that acts as a prodrug of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a widely used cytotoxic agent in cancer therapy. Capecitabine is selectively activated by tumor-associated enzymes, particularly thymidine phosphorylase, which is often found in higher concentrations within tumor cells compared to normal tissues. This selective activation leads to the generation of 5-FU directly at the tumor site, thereby minimizing systemic exposure to the active cytotoxic agent and potentially reducing systemic toxicity. 5-FU then interferes with DNA and RNA synthesis, ultimately inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

This targeted delivery mechanism makes Xeloda an effective and convenient option for various solid tumors. Its ability to be administered orally offers significant advantages in terms of patient convenience and quality of life, reducing the need for frequent intravenous infusions. Xeloda is commonly used as a monotherapy or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents and targeted therapies. Due to its mechanism of action, careful monitoring for side effects, particularly hand-foot syndrome and gastrointestinal toxicities, is crucial. Patients must adhere strictly to the prescribed dosing regimen and report any adverse reactions promptly to their healthcare provider to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and manage potential toxicities effectively.

Uses

• Treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
• Adjuvant therapy for colon cancer
• Treatment of metastatic breast cancer
• Management of advanced gastric cancer

Directions For Use

Take this tablet orally twice daily, within 30 minutes after a meal, as prescribed by your oncologist. Swallow whole with water.

Benefits

• Oral chemotherapy for patient convenience
• Targeted activation within tumor cells
• Effective in various solid tumors
• Can be used in combination therapy
• Avoids need for intravenous administration
• Improves patient quality of life

Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Hand-foot syndrome
• Fatigue
• Stomatitis
• Abdominal pain
• Alopecia (hair loss)
• Neutropenia
• Hyperbilirubinemia
• Dehydration
• Anorexia

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and potentially increase liver stress during treatment.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated. This medication can cause severe fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated. Discontinue breastfeeding during treatment and for a period after the last dose due to potential harm to the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Monitor liver function tests closely and adjust dose as necessary.
• Kidney - Dose adjustment is required in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment. Monitor renal function regularly.
• Lung - Rare but serious adverse reactions like pneumonitis or interstitial lung disease can occur; monitor for respiratory symptoms.

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