XELODA 500 MG 120 TB

XELODA (Capecitabine) is an oral chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, and gastric cancers. XELODA is a prodrug that is converted into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the body, which then inhibits the synthesis of DNA and RNA, ultimately preventing cancer cell growth and division. This medication offers the convenience of oral administration compared to traditional intravenous chemotherapy, making it a preferred option for many patients.

How XELODA Works

Mechanism of Action

1. Prodrug Conversion:
   • XELODA is a prodrug of 5-FU, meaning it is metabolized in the body to produce the active cancer-fighting agent.
2. Selective Activation in Tumors:
   • After oral ingestion, XELODA is absorbed and converted into 5-FU mainly within cancer cells due to high levels of an enzyme called thymidine phosphorylase, which is more prevalent in tumor tissues than in normal tissues. This selective activation helps to reduce systemic toxicity.
3. Inhibition of DNA and RNA Synthesis:
   • 5-FU disrupts the synthesis of DNA and RNA by inhibiting the enzyme thymidylate synthase, essential for DNA replication. This action prevents the growth and proliferation of cancer cells.
4. Cell Death:
   • The inhibition of DNA synthesis leads to cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells, effectively slowing down or stopping tumor progression.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Diarrhea:
  • XELODA can cause severe diarrhea, which may require dose adjustments or discontinuation.
• Nausea and Vomiting:
  • Common gastrointestinal symptoms that can often be managed with anti-nausea medications.
• Hand-Foot Syndrome:
  • Redness, pain, swelling, or peeling of the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
• Fatigue:
  • Patients frequently report tiredness, which can affect daily activities.
• Loss of Appetite:
  • Reduced desire to eat, which can lead to weight loss.
• Mouth Sores:
  • Painful sores or ulcers in the mouth, making eating and drinking difficult.

Serious Side Effects

• Severe Diarrhea:
  • Can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance if not managed promptly.
• Cardiotoxicity:
  • Rare but serious heart-related issues, including chest pain, heart attack, and heart rhythm problems.
• Bone Marrow Suppression:
  • Reduction in blood cells, leading to anemia, increased infection risk, and bleeding issues.
• Severe Skin Reactions:
  • Includes Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, which are potentially life-threatening.
• Hepatotoxicity:
  • Elevated liver enzymes and liver damage in severe cases.

Indications

XELODA is indicated for:

• Colorectal Cancer:
  • First-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer, either as monotherapy or in combination with other agents.
• Breast Cancer:
  • Used in combination with docetaxel for metastatic breast cancer after failure of anthracycline-containing chemotherapy. It is also used as monotherapy in cases resistant to both paclitaxel and anthracycline.
• Gastric Cancer:
  • Indicated for advanced or metastatic gastric cancer, particularly when combined with platinum-based therapies.
• Adjuvant Therapy for Colon Cancer:
  • Used post-surgery to help prevent the recurrence of colon cancer.

Contraindications

XELODA should not be used in the following conditions:

• Severe Renal Impairment:
  • Contraindicated in patients with a creatinine clearance below 30 mL/min due to increased toxicity risk.
• Hypersensitivity to Capecitabine or 5-FU:
  • Patients with known allergies to the drug or its metabolites should not use XELODA.
• Severe Hepatic Impairment:
  • Use is contraindicated in patients with significant liver dysfunction.
• Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD) Deficiency:
  • XELODA should not be used in patients with complete DPD deficiency, as this can lead to severe or life-threatening toxicity.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
  • XELODA is contraindicated due to the potential harm to the fetus or infant.

Price in Different Countries

The cost of XELODA 500 mg 120 TB varies depending on the country, healthcare system, and insurance coverage. The table below provides approximate prices in different countries.