What is this medication for?
Capecitabine belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medicines known as antineoplastics, and specifically to the group of antineoplastics known as antimetabolites. Capecitabine fights cancer by killing and preventing the growth of cancer cells. Capecitabine is usually used alone or in combination with other medications to treat certain types of breast cancer and colorectal cancer.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose of capecitabine varies according to body size. Capecitabine is normally given in two equal doses twice a day for two weeks followed by a rest period of one week. This cycle is repeated until treatment is complete as assessed by your doctor. Capecitabine tablets should be swallowed whole with water within 30 minutes after the end of a meal.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
As well as interfering with the growth of cancer cells, capecitabine can interfere with some of your normal cells. This can cause a number of side effects such as mouth sores. Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section "What side effects are possible with this medication?"
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Capecitabine should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to capecitabine, 5-fluorouracil or any ingredients of the medication
- has a condition known as dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency
- has severe kidney impairment