Capecitabine 500mg is a chemotherapy medication, specifically an anti-metabolite, used to treat certain types of cancer.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Capecitabine's Function: Capecitabine is a pro-drug, meaning it's converted into its active form (fluorouracil, or 5-FU) within the body, particularly in cancer cells.
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Mechanism of Action: Fluorouracil disrupts the growth of cancer cells by interfering with their ability to synthesize DNA and RNA. DNA and RNA are crucial for cell replication and survival. By blocking their production, the chemotherapy aims to stop cancer cells from multiplying.
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Dosage (500mg): The "500mg" indicates the strength of each capecitabine tablet or capsule. Dosage regimens are determined by a doctor and are highly individualized, based on factors such as the type of cancer, the patient's weight, kidney function, and overall health. Patients will often take multiple tablets to achieve their prescribed dose.
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Common Uses: Capecitabine is frequently prescribed for:
- Colorectal cancer: Both as an adjuvant treatment (after surgery) and for metastatic disease.
- Breast cancer: Often used after other chemotherapy drugs have been tried.
- Gastric cancer: Sometimes used in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
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Administration: Capecitabine is typically administered orally (as a pill), which makes it a convenient option compared to intravenous chemotherapy in some situations.
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Side Effects: Like all chemotherapy drugs, capecitabine can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
- Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia) - redness, swelling, and pain on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Mouth sores (mucositis)
- Low blood cell counts
It's important to report any side effects to your doctor, as they can often be managed with supportive care.
In summary, capecitabine 500mg is an oral chemotherapy medication that works by disrupting DNA synthesis in cancer cells, thereby slowing their growth. It is used to treat various cancers, including colorectal, breast, and gastric cancer, and its use is carefully monitored by a physician due to its potential side effects.
