Medication Profile: Capecitabine

Summary or Key Points

Capecitabine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer. This medication works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Always consult your healthcare provider before changing your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available for immediate consultation.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Xeloda (Capecitabine)

The ‘generic name’ refers to the active ingredient in the medication, which in this case is ‘Capecitabine’. When you see a name in parenthesis, like ‘(Capecitabine)’ here, it means that’s the generic name of the drug.

Pharmacologic Category

Capecitabine belongs to a class of chemotherapy drugs known as ‘antimetabolites.’ Other medications in this category include fluorouracil, methotrexate, and gemcitabine.

Dosing

Capecitabine is indicated to treat the following conditions:

• Breast Cancer: The usual dose is 1250 mg/m² administered orally twice daily (morning and evening; equivalent to 2500 mg/m² total daily dose) for 2 weeks followed by a 1-week rest period given as 3-week cycles. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available for immediate consultation.
• Colon or Rectum Cancer: The usual dose is 1250 mg/m² administered orally twice daily (morning and evening; equivalent to 2500 mg/m² total daily dose) for 2 weeks followed by a 1-week rest period given as 3-week cycles. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available for immediate consultation.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Capecitabine comes in tablet form in the following strengths: 150 mg and 500 mg.

Administration Instructions

Capecitabine should be taken with food or within 30 minutes after a meal. Swallow the tablets whole with water. Do not break or crush them. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, talk with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine team is available to discuss any concerns you may have.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Capecitabine can cause various side effects, some of which are more common than others. These include:

• Common Side Effects: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, sores in the mouth and throat (stomatitis), stomach upset, and hand-foot syndrome (redness, pain, swelling of hands/feet).
• Less Common Side Effects: Changes in taste, temporary hair loss, and eye irritation.

Severe side effects are less common but can include severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, pain or swelling of the hands/feet, chest pain, and jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes). Always report any side effects to your healthcare provider immediately. Our telemedicine providers are available for immediate consultation if you experience any side effects.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a condition or factor that makes a particular treatment or procedure potentially harmful. In other words, it’s a reason why you shouldn’t take a certain medication. For Capecitabine, the contraindications are:

• Severe Renal Impairment: Capecitabine can cause additional harm to already damaged kidneys.
• Hypersensitivity: If you are allergic to capecitabine or any of its ingredients, you should not take this medication to avoid potential allergic reactions.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Some medications can interfere with how Capecitabine works. These include:

• Anticoagulants (Warfarin, Coumadin)
• Phenytoin (Dilantin)
• Folic Acid (Folvite)

Capecitabine in Pregnancy

Capecitabine is not considered safe during pregnancy. It has the potential to harm an unborn baby, especially if taken in the first trimester. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine team is here to help you navigate this conversation.

Capecitabine while Breastfeeding

It’s not recommended to take Capecitabine while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while on this medication. Our telemedicine providers are always available to discuss your concerns.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Capecitabine (500 mg) without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $160. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.

Possible Alternatives

While Capecitabine is a widely used treatment for certain cancers, there may be alternatives or lifestyle changes that could complement your treatment. These alternatives should always be discussed with your healthcare provider before making any changes. Our telemedicine providers can assist you with this conversation.

• Breast Cancer: Alternative treatments could include other chemotherapy drugs, radiation, hormone therapy, or surgery. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help manage symptoms and improve overall health.
• Colon or Rectum Cancer: Alternative treatments could include other chemotherapy drugs, radiation, immunotherapy, or surgery. Regular exercise and a high-fiber diet can help maintain digestive health.

Recent Updates on Capecitabine Research

Recent studies suggest Capecitabine may be beneficial in combination with other chemotherapy drugs for advanced gastric cancer. Research is ongoing, and its full potential is yet to be determined. As the science progresses, our telemedicine providers will stay abreast of the latest research to provide you with the most current and effective treatments.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.