Medicine Description xeloda 500mg
Xeloda 500 mg 120 tablets is a medication that undergoes conversion in the body to its active form, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), after oral administration. This transformation primarily occurs in tumor tissues and the liver, where it interferes with the synthesis of DNA and RNA by inhibiting thymidylate synthase. This inhibition results in the disruption of nucleotide synthesis, which is crucial for cancer cell proliferation. Consequently, Xeloda effectively slows down the growth of malignant cells and induces apoptosis, thereby limiting tumor progression and metastasis.
Indications and Uses of Xeloda 500 mg 120 tablets
- Treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
- Adjuvant therapy for stage III colon cancer post-surgery
- Treatment of locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer
- Used in combination with other antineoplastic agents for enhanced therapeutic effect
Side Effects of Xeloda 500 mg 120 tablets
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Stomatitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth)
Storage and Handling
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
Patient Advice and Precautions
Patients should be advised to maintain adequate hydration throughout treatment. Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor blood cell counts and liver function. It is important to report any signs of severe side effects, such as persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual bleeding. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any other medications they are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.