Prescription Required
Description
Xeloda is an oral tablet made up of a cancer medication/antimetabolite called capecitabine. We carry this medication in both the brand choice and generic alternative in 150mg and 500mg!
This medication is commonly prescribed to treat colon cancer and breast or colorectal cancer that has spread to other locations of the body and may be prescribed alone or with other medications. Cancer is a group of diseases that is associated with abnormal cell growth with potential to invade or spread. Colon cancer, which is also known as colorectal cancer, begins in the large intestines (colon) as small noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells (polyps) and over time, may turn cancerous (malignant). Breast cancer begins most commonly in the milk-producing ducts when cell growth becomes abnormal; the exact cause of this is unknown. These conditions usually are not life threatening until they begin spreading to other locations of the body.
Xeloda (capecitabine) is effective at treating cancer because of its ability to interfere with the growth of cancer cells which slows their spread in the body.
Directions
Only take this medication the way that your doctor has directed you too. Taking the incorrect dose can lead to unwanted side effects, ineffectiveness, or adverse interactions; avoid taking more or less of a dose than recommended. You may need frequent medical tests during treatment as well as remaining under care of a doctor during the duration of treatment.
This medication is commonly taken twice per day with a full glass of water, 30 minutes after eating a meal; swallow the tablet whole.
This medication is usually only part of a treatment program and may include other medications as well. Usually, it is a 3 week treatment cycle, but you may only need to take medication for the first 2 weeks; ensure you are following your doctors instructions very carefully.
Store this medication at room temperature away from risks of moisture and heat. Ensure it is in an area not accessible by children or pets.
Cautions
Do not use Xeloda (capecitabine)
Do not use Xeloda if you have severe kidney disease, a metabolic disorder called DPD deficiency, or if you are allergic to capecitabine or fluorouracil. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant as this drug can seriously harm your baby.
Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required
Before starting treatment, tell your doctor if you have ever had kidney disease, bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia, liver disease, a history of coronary artery disease, or if you take blood thinners.
Risks
If you take blood thinners (like warfarin, Coumadin, or Jantoven), this medication may increase your risk of severe bleeding during and after treatment; you may need more frequent "INR" or prothrombin time tests.
While being treated with Xeloda, use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, even if you are a man.
It is not yet known if this medication will pass into breast milk or if it will harm a nursing infant. Speak with your doctor if you are breast feeding.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Xeloda (capecitabine) may include:
stomach pain or upset, constipation; tired feeling; mild skin rash; or numbness or tingling in your hands or feet.
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Xeloda (capecitabine) may include:
fever above 100.5 degrees; nausea, loss of appetite, eating much less than usual, vomiting (more than once in 24 hours); severe diarrhea (more than 4 times per day, or during the night); blisters or ulcers in your mouth, red or swollen gums, trouble swallowing; pain, tenderness, redness, swelling, blistering, or peeling skin on your hands or feet
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.
Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…
heart problems: chest pain or pressure, uneven heartbeats, shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling or rapid weight gain;
liver problems: nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
kidney problems: little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath;
dehydration: feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin;
low blood cell counts: fever or other flu symptoms, cough, skin sores, pale skin, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, feeling light-headed, rapid heart rate.
FAQs
What is Xeloda?
The medication Capecitabine is used to treat breast, colon, and rectal cancer. It interferes with the growth of the cancer cells and slows down their spread within the body. At times, this medication can be used in combination with other medications or radiation treatments. This medication comes in two different strengths which are 150mg and 500mg. If you have any questions regarding this medication or any inquiries in general, feel free to give us a call at our toll free number 1-877-385-8998.
How long does Xeloda work?
Usually you will take this medication for about 14 days and then have a 7 day period where you do not take this medication. The length of the treatment cycle itself is 21 days/3 weeks.
How long does Xeloda stay in your system?
Since Capecitabine is a form of chemotherapy, it is known to stay in the body within 2 to 3 days of treatment. Keep in mind there may be long-term or short-term side effects that you may experience.
How to take Xeloda?
This medication comes in the form of a tablet; you should swallow it whole along with a full glass of water. It is normally taken twice per day. Usually taken once in the morning and then once in the evening. The tablets are preferably taken 30 minutes after a meal.
How much does Xeloda cost?
This medication is unfortunately not covered by Medicare; therefore it doesn’t fall in line with any one of their Tiers. This means the drug itself could be quite expensive. However, you can find a more affordable option on an online Canadian Pharmacy such as My Drug Center. We do have a starting price of $158.00 for 60 tablets.
What to avoid while taking Capecitabine?
You should not take any Aspirin or any product that contains Aspirin unless your doctor permits it. You should also avoid antacids within two hours of taking Xeloda. And if you are already taking Warfarin as a blood thinner, some adjustments may need to be made to your dosage based on your blood work.
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