Xeloda
Xeloda Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Xeloda is a brand name. Its generic name is Capecitabine.
Introduction
Xeloda is an orally administered anti-cancer chemotherapy drug used to treat several types of cancer, including breast, colon, rectal, and gastric cancer. It works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.Uses For
Xeloda is used for the treatment of various types of cancer, such as breast, colon, rectal, and gastric cancer. It is also used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy and other chemotherapy drugs.Mechanism of Action
Xeloda works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells. It inhibits the activity of an enzyme called thymidylate synthase, which is required for DNA synthesis and cellular division. By inhibiting this enzyme, capecitabine prevents cancer cells from dividing and multiplying.How Long Does It Take to Work?
Xeloda typically takes several weeks to start working. In clinical trials, the average time to best response was seven weeks for metastatic colorectal cancer, eight weeks for metastatic breast cancer, and twelve weeks for metastatic gastric cancer.Absorption
Xeloda is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration. It achieves peak plasma concentrations one hour after ingestion.Route of Elimination
Xeloda is eliminated from the body by the kidneys. Approximately 60% of the drug is excreted in urine, and the remainder is eliminated in the bile.Dosage
The recommended dose of capecitabine for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer is a total of 2450 mg/m2 per day administered orally for two weeks on, followed by one week off in each cycle. For metastatic breast cancer, the recommended dose is 1250 mg/m2 per day applied orally for two weeks on, followed by one week off in each cycle. For metastatic gastric cancer, the recommended dose is 1250 mg/m2 per day administered orally for two weeks on, followed by one week off in each cycle.Administration
Xeloda should be swallowed whole with water, not chewed or crushed. It may be taken with or without food.Side Effect
Common side effects of capecitabine include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, constipation, hair loss or thinning, eye inflammation, and hand-foot syndrome.Toxicity
Xeloda is generally well tolerated, but there is a risk of severe side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia.Precautions
Patients should let their doctor know if they have any other medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, and if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.Interaction
Patients should not take other medications, including over-the-counter medications, without first consulting their doctor.Disease Interaction
Xeloda may interact with other diseases such as kidney or liver disease. Patients with these conditions should consult with their doctor before using capecitabine.Drug Interaction
Xeloda may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and anti-inflammatory drugs. It is important to let your doctor know if you are taking any other medications.Food Interaction
Xeloda may interact with food, so it is important to talk to your doctor about food to avoid while taking this medication.Pregnancy Use
Xeloda should not be used during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby.Lactation Use
Xeloda is excreted in breast milk and should not be used during lactation.Acute Overdose
If an acute overdose of capecitabine is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.Contraindication
Xeloda is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to the drug.Use Direction
Xeloda should be taken exactly as prescribed and according to the instructions on the package insert.Storage Condition
Xeloda should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of capecitabine is relatively small, approximately 0.2 liters/kg.Half Life
The half life of capecitabine is approximately 3-5 hours.Clearance
The clearance of capecitabine is approximately 6.5 L/hr/kg.Here you find in details version of Xeloda
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Xeloda
What is Xeloda?
Xeloda is an antimetabolite chemotherapy drug in the fluoropyrimidine family that is used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer and certain other types of cancer.
How does Xeloda work?
Xeloda works by inhibiting several enzymes involved in the metabolism of cancer cells, thereby causing an interruption in their normal growth cycle.
What types of cancer do Xeloda treat?
Xeloda is commonly used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer, as well as certain other types of cancer such as breast, stomach, and pancreatic cancer.
What are the side effects of Xeloda?
The most commonly reported side effects of Xeloda include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. Some patients may experience more serious side effects such as skin rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), difficulty breathing, and changes in blood counts.
Is Xeloda safe to take?
Xeloda is generally safe when taken as directed. Patients should talk to their doctor if they have any questions or concerns about taking the medication.
How long does Xeloda take to work?
The amount of time it takes for Xeloda to start working will vary from patient to patient. Typically, it takes a few weeks for the medication to start taking effect.
How often should I take Xeloda?
Your doctor will prescribe a specific dosing schedule for you to follow. You should take Xeloda exactly as directed by your doctor.
Can I take other medications while taking Xeloda?
You should talk to your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Xeloda. Certain medications may interfere with the effectiveness of Xeloda or cause unnecessary side effects.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Xeloda?
If you miss a dose of Xeloda, you should take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, you should skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Are there any interactions between Xeloda and certain medications?
Xeloda may interact with certain medications. You should tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, or vitamins.
Should I take Xeloda with food?
It is recommended that you take Xeloda with food or within 30 minutes after eating a meal. This will help to reduce some of the nausea and vomiting that may occur with the medication.
What time of day should I take Xeloda?
Your doctor will tell you the best time of day to take Xeloda. Generally, it is best to take the medication at the same time each day.
What should I do if I experience any of the side effects from taking Xeloda?
It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects from taking Xeloda. He or she may be able to recommend treatments or other medications to help reduce the symptoms.
Is there anything I should avoid while taking Xeloda?
You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Xeloda, as it can increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding while taking the medication.
Can I take Xeloda if I am pregnant?
No, Xeloda should not be taken by pregnant women. Women who are planning to become pregnant should tell their doctor before taking the medication.
Can I take Xeloda if I am breastfeeding?
No, you should not take Xeloda while breastfeeding, as it may have an affect on the breastmilk. Women who are breastfeeding should talk to their doctor before taking the medication.
Is there anything I should avoid while taking Xeloda?
You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Xeloda, as it can increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding while taking the medication.
What foods should I avoid while taking Xeloda?
You should avoid eating anything that is high in fat or that is spicy, as these can increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid eating raw fish, as this can increase the risk of contracting food-borne illness.
What are the most common side effects of Xeloda?
The most common side effects of Xeloda are nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue and mild skin rash. However, if you experience more serious side effects, you should talk to your doctor.
Are there any long-term effects of taking Xeloda?
The long-term effects of taking Xeloda vary from patient to patient. Your doctor can advise you on any potential long-term effects.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Xeloda?
No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Xeloda, as it can increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid consuming large amounts of caffeine while taking the medication.
Does Xeloda have any drug interactions?
Yes, Xeloda may interact with other medications. You should tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, or vitamins.
What if I forget to take my dose of Xeloda?
If you forget to take a dose of Xeloda, you should take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Do I need to have regular blood tests while taking Xeloda?
Yes, it is important to have regular blood tests while taking Xeloda. Your doctor will advise you on how often you should have blood tests.
What should I do if I experience any other side effects while taking Xeloda?
It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking Xeloda. He or she may be able to recommend treatments or other medications to help reduce the severity of the symptoms.
Is there anyone who should not take Xeloda?
Yes, Xeloda should not be taken by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can harm the baby. You should also talk to your doctor if you have any kidney or liver problems, as this medication can be hard on the kidneys.
Are there any alternatives to Xeloda?
Yes, there are other types of chemotherapy medications available to treat cancer. Your doctor will be able to discuss with you the best treatment plan for your specific type of cancer.
How long can I expect to take Xeloda?
The length of time you will need to take Xeloda will vary from patient to patient. Your doctor will be able to provide more information about how long you can expect to take the medication.
Is Xeloda covered by insurance?
It depends on your insurance provider. You should check with your insurance provider to see if Xeloda is covered in your policy.
Can I take other over-the-counter medications while taking Xeloda?
You should talk to your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Xeloda. Certain medications may interfere with the effectiveness of Xeloda or cause unnecessary side effects.
I am a smoker, can I still take Xeloda?
Smoking can increase the risk of certain side effects while taking Xeloda. You should talk to your doctor if you are a smoker, as he or she may recommend quitting smoking or reducing your smoking to help reduce the risk of side effects.
What should I do if I experience difficulty breathing while taking Xeloda?
If you experience difficulty breathing while taking Xeloda, you should immediately contact your doctor. Difficulty breathing could be a sign of a serious side effect of the medication.
How will I know if Xeloda is working?
Your doctor will monitor your progress while taking Xeloda. He or she will discuss any changes in your condition or any test results with you.
What should I know before taking Xeloda?
Before taking Xeloda, it is important to tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, any allergies that you may have, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you smoke, and if you have any kidney or liver problems.
What should I watch for while taking Xeloda?
You should monitor for any signs of side effects while taking Xeloda. If you experience any symptoms such as difficulty breathing, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or changes in blood counts, you should contact your doctor right away.
What if I overdose on Xeloda?
If you believe you may have overdosed on Xeloda, you should go to the nearest emergency room or call your doctor right away.
Does Xeloda cause hair loss?
Yes, Xeloda may cause hair loss. You should talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding hair loss.
Is there anything I can do to reduce the side effects of Xeloda?
Yes, there are certain treatments and medications that may reduce the side effects of Xeloda. You should talk to your doctor for more information on how to reduce the side effects.
Can I exercise while taking Xeloda?
Yes, but you should talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen. He or she will recommend the type and intensity of exercise that is best for you.
Is there anything I need to do differently while taking Xeloda?
Yes, you should take extra precautions to protect your skin from the sun, as Xeloda can make your skin more sensitive to the sun's rays. You should also take caution when eating and drinking, as certain foods and drinks can interact with the medication.