Xeloda (Capecitabine)

Xeloda (Capecitabine) Medication Information

Uses

Xeloda is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor that is used to treat colon cancer and breast cancer. 

Dosage

The tablets are available in several different strengths:

• 150 mg
• 500 mg

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Xeloda include:

• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Diarrhea 
• Hand-and-foot syndrome
• Fatigue
• Increase in bilirubin 

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Capecitabine.

Precautions

In patients with low or absent dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) there is a risk of developing serious side effects when taking Capecitabine. 

In patients who are dehydrated there is a risk of kidney injury and Xeloda treatment should be held until dehydration is corrected. 

There is a risk of coagulopathy, and patients who take Xeloda will need to have their blood monitored. 

Interactions

A common drug interaction with Xeloda includes:

• Anticoagulants
• Phenytoin
• Leucovorin
• Food 

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Capecitabine. 

Storage

Store at room temperature (77 ºF). Keep Xeloda in a tightly closed container.

Pharmacist Tips

• If you experience a side effect with Xeloda it is important to report it to your doctor. 
• Xeloda tablets need to be swallowed whole.
• Capecitabine dose is calculated based on your body surface area, so if there is significant weight changes your dose may need to be changed. .

Capecitabine FAQs

How long before Xeloda side effects start?

You can see side effects with Xeloda a few days after starting therapy.

What happens when you stop Xeloda?

You should not stop taking Capecitabine unless instructed by your doctor. 

How long can you stay on Xeloda?

Xeloda is typically given as a 14 day treatment in a 21 day cycle. The number of cycles that are recommended is based on your cancer type. 

Can Xeloda cure cancer?

Capecitabine is approved to treat colon and breast cancer. 

What are Xeloda side effects?

Capecitabine can cause abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hand-and-foot syndrome, and mouth sores. 

Related Drugs

• Afinitor
• Gleevec
• Imbruvica

Reference:

Xeloda {package insert}. South San Francisco: Genetech USA, Inc.; 2015.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/020896s037lbl.pdf