Xeloda

Xeloda is a drug used to treat a number of cancers. This includes types such as breast and colon cancer. This drug is used along with other cancer treatments such as radiation therapy. Xeloda is also called Capecitabine in the medical industry.

How It Works

This cancer medication works by interfering with the growth of the cancer cells. It reduces the speed of the growth and thereby prevents the cancer from spreading to the rest of the body. The drug also works by reducing the size of the tumor.

Uses

Xeloda is mainly used to treat various types of cancer. It is highly effective in treating breast cancer, rectum cancer and colon cancer. It is also used colorectal cancer. This medication is useful in preventing the condition from spreading to other parts of the body.

Dosage

This drug is usually taken twice a day, by mouth. It is advised to consume the drug in the morning and evening between well-spaced intervals. Make sure to take your dose 30 minutes after your meal along with a full glass of water. The tablet must not be chewed or split. Swallow it whole. If the contents of the drug are exposed before you swallow it, then you are more likely to experience the side effects of the drug. After taking the medication for two continuous weeks, you have to avoid it for one week. This pattern must be continued throughout the treatment process, unless your physician tells you otherwise.

The dosage will be determined according to your health condition, body size and response to the drug. This drug will be given in various sizes. Therefore, make sure to select the right sized tablets in order to prevent overdosing.

Side Effects

The following are some side effects of Xeloda that you need to keep an eye out for.

four_dot_bullet_red High fever
four_dot_bullet_red Loss of appetite
four_dot_bullet_red Nausea
four_dot_bullet_red Vomiting
four_dot_bullet_red Severe diarrhea
four_dot_bullet_red Trouble swallowing
four_dot_bullet_red Heart problems
four_dot_bullet_red Liver problems

If you do experience any of the above, make sure to contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Precautions

Make sure to follow the precautionary information given below in order to ensure your safety during the course of the treatment.

four_dot_bullet_red Ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients used in this medication.

four_dot_bullet_red Speak to your pharmacist and inform him or her about your current medication. This includes prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs and herbal supplements.

four_dot_bullet_red Do not consume this drug if you have a pre-existing kidney disease.

four_dot_bullet_red Do not breastfeed your baby during the treatment period.

four_dot_bullet_red Do not stop the consumption abruptly. This can result in unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Self-Care

If you consume any antacid products that include aluminum or magnesium, then make sure that you take them at least 2 hours before or after consuming Xeloda. Taking both medications at the same time can result in a negative chemical reaction. The antacid might even reduce the effectiveness of Xeloda.

This drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs. Therefore, it is important to store the medication very carefully. Do not keep the drug exposed in the presence of pregnant women since it can affect the health of the fetus.