What is Capecitabine: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

How to take Capecitabine

• Oral routeMedicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

• Take this medicine with food or within 30 minutes after you eat.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not cut, crush, break, or chew it. If the tablet must be cut or crushed, it should be done by a pharmacist.

• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

• Take this medicine with food or within 30 minutes after you eat.

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

• Oral routeMedicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not cut, crush, break, or chew it. If the tablet must be cut or crushed, it should be done by a pharmacist.

• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

What to do if you miss a dose of Capecitabine

Capecitabine contraindications

• This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to capecitabine or 5-fluorouracil, you are pregnant, or you have DPD deficiency.

Capecitabine warnings

• Oral routeThis medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Female patients must use effective birth control during treatment and for 6 months after your treatment ends. Male patients with partners of childbearing potential should also use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or any type of infection.

• Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after your last dose of this medicine.

• This medicine may cause the following problems:Increased risk of heart attack or other heart problemsKidney failureSerious skin reactions

• Oral routeThis medicine could cause infertility. Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.

• This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.

• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

• Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat

• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet, unusual tiredness

• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness, pale skin

• Yellow skin or eyes

Capecitabine interactions

• Some medicines can affect how capecitabine works. Tell your doctor if you are using a blood thinner (including phenprocoumon or warfarin), leucovorin, or phenytoin.

• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have liver or kidney disease, heart disease, or any type of infection.

• This medicine may cause the following problems:Increased risk of heart attack or other heart problemsKidney failureSerious skin reactions

• This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.

• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.