Capecitabine (Systemic)

Brand Names : Xeloda

Proper Use of This Medicine

Each dose of this medicine should be taken within 30 minutes after the end of a meal.

Swallow the tablets with water.

Dosing - The dose of capecitabine will be different for different patients. The dose that is used depends on a number of things, including the patient's body size. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of capecitabine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so. If you have any questions about the proper dose of capecitabine, ask your doctor.

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For breast cancer:
    • Adults - The starting dose is usually 2500 milligrams (mg) per square meter of body surface area a day, divided into two doses and taken about twelve hours apart within 30 minutes after the end of a meal. However, the dose may have to be decreased if certain side effects occur.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For colorectal cancer:
    • Adults - The starting dose is usually 2500 milligrams (mg) per square meter of body surface area a day, divided into two doses and taken about twelve hours apart within 30 minutes after the end of a meal. However, the dose may have to be decreased if certain side effects occur.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, do not take the missed dose at all and do not double the next one. Instead, go back to your regular dosing schedule and check with your doctor.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.