Why is Xeloda prescribed?

Capecitabine (Xeloda) is prescribed for the treatment of colon cancer (cancer that starts in the large intestine) that has spread to other body organs. It is also used in people who have undergone surgery to remove the tumor to prevent further spread of the cancer.

Capecitabine is also used for the treatment of breast cancer that has not improved after using other medications. It is also used with other medications to treat breast cancer that has spread to different organs.

What does it do?

Cancer is the general term for a large number of diseases wherein abnormal cells develop in the body and grow uncontrollably. The abnormal cells are also able to destroy normal cells in the body. Capecitabine is classified as an antimetabolite. It works by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells or slows down their growth.

How should I take it?

Xeloda is available in 150mg and 500mg tablets intended for oral administration. It should be taken with a full glass of water 30 minutes after meals. Take it at the same time every day and swallow it as a whole. Do not crush, chew, break it in half, or tamper the tablet in any way.

Take Xeloda exactly as your doctor instructed. Do not make alterations in the dosage or frequency of taking the medication. Your doctor will determine if you will need adjustments in your dosage.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for any concerns you may have when taking Xeloda.

What if I missed a dose?

Taking the dose properly at the scheduled time is needed to attain the desired effect of the drug. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and catch the next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses just to make up for your missed dose.

What are the special precautions before using Xeloda?

Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Capecitabine, Fluorouracil, any other medications, or any component of Xeloda.

Inform your doctor if you have or ever had dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency (a metabolic disorder), bleeding or blood clotting disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, or heart disease.

Also tell your doctor if you are taking any blood thinner (anticoagulant) medications. Capecitabine may increase your risk of having life-threatening bleeding if taken together with anticoagulants. Your doctor may have to make adjustments to your medications.

For the drug label information of Xeloda, click here.

Does it have any side effects?

It is important to note that all drugs have corresponding side effects and adverse reactions. Additional information may be obtained when you ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects include:
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Increased amount of bilirubin in the blood (product of red blood cell breakdown)
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Serious side effects include:
• Appetite loss
• Chest pain
• Fast heartbeats
• Fever
• Increased sweating, very thirsty (dehydration)
• Mouth sores
• Painful or difficult urination
• Severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Is it safe to use it with another drug?

Some drug interactions may cause life-threatening reactions when taken with other medications. Immediately inform your doctor if you are taking Xeloda with any of the following medications:

• Adalimumab
• Anisindione
• Arava
• Baricitinib
• Certolizumab
• Cladribine
• Clozapine
• Coumadin
• Cozaar
• Crestor
• Deferiprone
• Dicumarol
• Dilantin
• Ertanercept
• Fingolimod
• Golimumab
• Infliximab
• Leucovorin
• Levaquin
• Levomefolate calcium
• Linezolid
• Mefenamic acid
• Natalizumab
• Ozanimod
• Pregabalin
• Prilosec
• Probenecid
• Propylthiouracil
• Retrovir
• Siponimod
• Teriflunomide
• Thalidomide
• Tofacitinib
• Upadacitinib
• Vfend
• Vinblastine
• Xarelto
• Zolpidem
• Zyloprim

Capecitabine also interacts with products containing folic acid. If you take them together, you may develop side effects such as bleeding problems, anemia, infections and nerve damage. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Capecitabine also interacts with products containing folic acid. If you take them together, you may develop side effects such as bleeding problems, anemia, infections and nerve damage. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms. 

How should I store it?

Store Xeloda at room temperature (25°C) in a clean environment away from light and moisture. Do not keep it in the bathroom. Always keep it in the container it came in and keep it tightly closed. Keep out of reach from children and pets. Throw away unused or expired medications. Do not flush it in the toilet or down the sink. Consult your pharmacist on the proper disposal of this medication.

What action should I take in case of overdose?

In the event of an overdose, inform your doctor and seek immediate medical attention. Some symptoms of overdose may include the following:

• Bleeding or bruising that is unusual
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Signs of an infection
• Stools that are black and tarry
• Unusual fatigue
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

Taking Capecitabine during pregnancy can cause harm to the fetus. According to the US FDA, Capecitabine is categorized as Pregnancy Category D which states that there is evidence of harm to the fetus with the use of this medication. You and your partner should use a reliable method of birth control to prevent an unplanned pregnancy during your treatment.

It is unknown if Capecitabine is present in human milk. Taking this medication may cause harm to an infant and you should inform your doctor before taking it if you are breastfeeding an infant.

The use of Capecitabine in pregnant and breastfeeding women should be avoided unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

Why buy Xeloda online from Canada?

Canadian Prescription Drugstore is an online Canadian pharmacy service that offers the best quality prescription drugs at discounted prices.

Get huge savings of up to 80% when you buy Xeloda from Canada. Buy Canada drugs with confidence from the most trusted online Canadian pharmacy for over 15 years. Get FREE SHIPPING for your online medication orders from our Canadian pharmacy (valid for first-time orders only).

For more information, visit Canadian Prescription Drugstore.