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Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Capecitabine?
3. What is Capecitabine Used to Treat?
4. Do You Need a Prescription for Capecitabine?
5. How Does Capecitabine Work?
6. What are Common Side Effects of Capecitabine?
7. What Should You Not Take with Capecitabine?
8. Conclusion

Introduction

Capecitabine is a prescription drug used to treat certain types of cancer. It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It is important to understand how capecitabine works, what it is used to treat, and what to avoid when taking it. This article will provide an overview of capecitabine, including how it works, what it is used to treat, and what to avoid when taking it.

What is Capecitabine?

Capecitabine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of cancer. It is a type of drug called a fluoropyrimidine carbamate. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It is available in tablet form and is taken by mouth.

What is Capecitabine Used to Treat?

Capecitabine is used to treat certain types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and stomach cancer. It is also used to treat metastatic cancer, which is cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

Do You Need a Prescription for Capecitabine?

Yes, capecitabine is a prescription drug and must be prescribed by a doctor. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking capecitabine.

How Does Capecitabine Work?

Capecitabine works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It does this by blocking the enzymes that cancer cells need to grow and divide. This prevents the cancer cells from growing and dividing, which can help slow or stop the growth of the cancer.

What are Common Side Effects of Capecitabine?

Common side effects of capecitabine include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and mouth sores. Other side effects may include hair loss, skin rash, and changes in taste.

What Should You Not Take with Capecitabine?

You should not take certain medications with capecitabine, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and antivirals. You should also avoid taking certain supplements, such as St. John’s wort, with capecitabine. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications or supplements while taking capecitabine.

Conclusion

Capecitabine is a prescription drug used to treat certain types of cancer. It works by blocking the enzymes that cancer cells need to grow and divide. Common side effects of capecitabine include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and mouth sores. You should not take certain medications or supplements with capecitabine. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications or supplements while taking capecitabine.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Sources:

1. National Cancer Institute. (2020). Capecitabine (Xeloda). Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/capecitabine

2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Capecitabine. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/capecitabine-oral-route/description/drg-20069092