Xeloda is an oral chemotherapy tablet that lets some patients avoid regular IV chemotherapy visits. This Xeloda oral chemotherapy guide explains its dosing cycle and important safety signs to watch for.
What Is It?
Xeloda contains capecitabine, a chemotherapy pro-drug that the body converts into its active form, 5-fluorouracil, preferentially within tumour tissue, used for breast, colorectal, and certain other cancers.
How Does It Work?
Once converted inside the body, it interferes with cancer cells’ ability to make and repair DNA, slowing or stopping their growth and division.
Who Is It Prescribed For?
Adults with breast, colorectal, or gastric cancer, prescribed as part of an oncology treatment plan.
Dosage and How to Take It
Typically taken twice daily for 14 days followed by a 7-day rest period, repeated in cycles set by your oncologist. Tablets are swallowed whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal, food improves tolerance and reduces stomach upset.
What If I Miss a Dose?
If a dose is missed by more than a few hours, skip it and resume your normal schedule, do not take a double dose. Contact your oncology team if you miss more than one dose.
Common Side Effects
Hand-foot syndrome (redness, swelling, or peeling on palms and soles)
Diarrhoea
Nausea
Fatigue
Mouth sores
Serious Side Effects, Seek Help If You Notice:
Severe or persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, or dehydration
High fever or signs of infection
Severe hand-foot syndrome with blistering or pain that limits daily activity
Chest pain (rare cardiac toxicity)
Warnings and Precautions
As emphasized in this Xeloda oral chemotherapy guide, capecitabine can interact seriously with certain other medicines, particularly warfarin, and requires close monitoring if taken together. Report diarrhoea, mouth sores, or hand-foot symptoms early, as your oncologist may need to pause or adjust your dose before they become severe.
Drug and Food Interactions
Significant interaction risk with warfarin and other blood thinners, folic acid-containing products, and phenytoin. Always confirm your full medicine list with your oncology pharmacist before starting.
Storage
Store below 30°C in the original packaging, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children and pets, as this is a cytotoxic medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hand-foot syndrome? A common side effect where the palms and soles become red, sore, or swollen, sometimes peeling; keeping hands and feet moisturised and avoiding excess heat or friction can help, but tell your oncology team if it becomes painful.
Can I take paracetamol or ibuprofen for side effects? Check with your oncology pharmacist first, some pain relievers can interact with capecitabine or mask signs of a problem that needs medical review.
This article is reviewed by Pharmacist Sesan Kareem, B.Pharm, MPA, MBA and is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always take medicines exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Chat with a HubPharm pharmacist on WhatsApp with any questions before starting, stopping, or changing a medicine.
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