Xeloda

Common Name: capecitabine

How does Xeloda work?

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 the ones listed in these drug information articles. 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 stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Xeloda?

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 with water within 30 minutes after the end of a meal. It is important that you take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you vomit shortly after taking capecitabine, contact your doctor for instruction on whether to take more medication or not. If you miss a dose of this medication, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double-up on doses. 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?" Store capecitabine tablets at room temperature and protect from excessive heat, direct light, and moisture.

What form(s) does Xeloda come in?

Xeloda® is available as 150 mg and 500 mg tablets. 150 mg: Each light-peach, oblong tablet, with "XELODA" on one side and "150" on the other, contains capecitabine 150 mg. 500 mg tablet: Each peach, oblong tablet, with "XELODA" on one side and "500" on the other, contains capecitabine 150 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, synthetic red iron oxide, synthetic yellow iron oxide, talc, and titanium dioxide. This product does not contain starch, yeast, or gluten.

What should I NOT take with Xeloda?

Capecitabine should not be used by anyone who: is allergic to capecitabine, 5-fluorouracil, or any of the ingredients of this product has severe kidney impairment

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Xeloda?

Heart disease: People with a history of heart disease may be more likely to experience side effects that affect the heart when taking this medication. Kidney disease: People with moderate kidney impairment require lower doses of capecitabine. Pregnancy: This medication may harm the baby if used during pregnancy. Women should avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medication. If you become pregnant while using capecitabine, tell your doctor immediately. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether capecitabine passes into breast milk. Because of the risks associated with this medication, women should not breast-feed while using capecitabine. Children and adolscents: The safety and effectiveness of capecitabine have not been established for children less than 18 years of age.