Capecitabine

 CAPECITABINE - ORAL (cap-eh-SIT-uh-bean)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Xeloda

USES: This medication is used to treat breast cancer that has not responded to other drugs. Capecitabine kills cancer cells and decreases tumor size by blocking the process by which the cells divide and are formed (DNA/RNA synthesis).

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Take this medication by mouth usually twice daily with food as directed by your doctor. It is best taken at the end of a meal with a full glass of water. Capecitabine is taken every day for 2 weeks followed by one week without taking this medication. This course of treatment may then be repeated as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your dosage may need to be adjusted using a different number of tablets and tablet strengths. Pay close attention to your dosage.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, constipation, weakness, body aches, headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, or dry, red, itchy skin may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Stop taking capecitabine and tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects: severe vomiting (2 or more times per day), severe diarrhea (4 or more times per day), persistent sore throat or fever, unusual bruising or bleeding, pain/swelling/redness or numbness of the hands and feet, sores in mouth. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, stomach pain, chest pain, trouble breathing. If you notice other side effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of any heart-related problems, liver problems; blood disorders (e.g., bone marrow suppression); kidney disease; and any allergies, especially to fluorouracil (5-FU). This medication can lower your body's ability to fight infection. Avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chances of getting cut, bruised or injured. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast- feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially leucovorin, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), folic acid, vitamins containing folic acid, antacids, and of other anti-cancer drugs. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach irritation and bleeding.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., kidney function) will be performed to monitor your progress.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist to establish a new dosing schedule.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly closed container. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 - 30 degrees C) is permitted. Keep away from light and moisture.