How is Capecitabine Oral Route dosed?
For breast cancer:
- The recommended dose is 1,250 mg/m^2 administered orally, twice a day, for 14 days, followed by a 7-day rest period. This cycle is repeated for a total of 8 cycles.
For rectal cancer:
- The recommended dose is 1,000 mg/m^2 administered orally, twice a day, for 6 weeks, in combination with other treatments and radiation therapy, around the time of surgery.
For colorectal cancer:
- The recommended dose is 1,250 mg/m^2 administered orally, twice a day, for 28-day cycles. The cycles may be repeated as long as the patient benefits from the treatment.
Please note that these are general dosing guidelines, and the specific dosage for an individual patient should be determined by their doctor based on their medical condition, response to treatment, and other factors. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
What is the dosage form of Capecitabine Oral Route?
Tablets
What medications are contraindication with Capecitabine Oral Route?
Capecitabine oral route should not be used with certain medications due to potentially serious interactions. It is important to consult your doctor before taking capecitabine if you are using any of the following medications:
- Blood thinners: Capecitabine may increase the risk of bleeding when used with blood thinners like warfarin, heparin, or aspirin.
- Anti-seizure medications: Capecitabine may reduce the effectiveness of anti-seizure medications like phenytoin, carbamazepine, or phenobarbital.
- Antacids: Taking capecitabine with antacids containing aluminum, magnesium, or calcium may reduce the absorption of capecitabine. It is advised to take capecitabine at least 2 hours before or 1 hour after taking antacids.
- Folic acid supplements: Capecitabine may reduce the levels of folic acid in your body, which is essential during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using folic acid supplements while taking capecitabine.
- Live vaccines: Capecitabine may lower your body's resistance to infections, and live vaccines might not work as well or could cause serious complications. Avoid live vaccines during treatment with capecitabine and for a certain period after stopping treatment. Always inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to ensure safe and effective use of capecitabine.
How is Capecitabine Oral Route administered?
Capecitabine oral route is administered by taking the tablet form of the medication with food, 30 minutes after eating. It should be swallowed whole with water, without cutting, crushing, or chewing the tablet. If the tablet needs to be cut or crushed, it should be done by a pharmacist. The dosage, timing, and duration of treatment depend on the individual patient's medical condition and the doctor's orders or the instructions on the label.
What are common precautions when taking Capecitabine Oral Route?
Common precautions when taking capecitabine orally include:
- Informing your doctor about allergies, other medications, and medical conditions you have, as capecitabine may not be suitable for everyone.
- Following your doctor's instructions on the dosage and frequency of the medication.
- Avoiding the consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking capecitabine, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
- Being cautious while driving or operating machinery, as capecitabine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion.
- Reporting any unusual side effects to your doctor, such as skin rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or signs of an allergic reaction. Consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and information about your specific situation.