Xelodace DT 500mg Tablet

About

Xelodace DT 500mg Tablet is an oral chemotherapeutic agent primarily used in the treatment of various cancers, including metastatic colorectal cancer, advanced breast cancer, and gastric cancer. It is a prodrug that is converted into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) within the body, particularly in tumor cells, through a series of enzymatic reactions. 5-FU then acts as an antimetabolite, interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis, which ultimately inhibits cell division and leads to the death of rapidly dividing cancer cells. This targeted activation within tumor cells aims to maximize efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity.

The 'DT' in Xelodace DT indicates a dispersible tablet formulation, which allows for easier administration, especially for patients who may have difficulty swallowing conventional tablets. This formulation can be dissolved in water before ingestion, providing flexibility in dosing. Xelodace offers the advantage of oral administration, allowing patients to receive chemotherapy at home, thereby reducing hospital visits. Close monitoring for side effects, particularly gastrointestinal and hand-foot syndrome, is crucial during treatment. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on patient tolerance and renal function.

Uses

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

Directions For Use

Take Xelodace DT 500mg Tablet orally, usually twice daily, with food or within 30 minutes after a meal, as directed by your oncologist. Dissolve the tablet in water if it is a dispersible formulation.

Benefits

• Effective in treating various types of cancer.
• Oral administration offers convenience and flexibility.
• May reduce the need for frequent hospital visits.
• Targeted activation in tumor cells may reduce systemic side effects.
• Dispersible formulation aids patients with swallowing difficulties.
• Part of established chemotherapy regimens.

Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hand-foot syndrome
• Stomatitis (mouth sores)
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Anorexia
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Neutropenia
• Anemia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Hyperbilirubinemia

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and potentially interact with the medication.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated during pregnancy due to severe teratogenic effects and potential harm to the fetus.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated during breastfeeding as the drug can pass into breast milk and cause serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with liver impairment; dosage adjustments and close monitoring of liver function are necessary.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with kidney impairment; dose reductions are often required to prevent drug accumulation and toxicity.
• Lung - Rare cases of interstitial lung disease have been reported; monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms.

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