A healthcare provider may prescribe capecitabine to people who have breast cancer or colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum). Capecitabine works by interfering with the cell's DNA and causing certain parts of the cells to not function properly. As a result, the cancer cells cannot multiply as rapidly. The medication comes in the form of a tablet that is taken by mouth twice a day. Possible side effects of the drug include anemia, diarrhea, and nausea.
Capecitabine (Xeloda®) is a prescription medication used to treat breast cancer and colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum). Unlike a number of other chemotherapy medicines that are given intravenously, capecitabine is taken by mouth.
Who Makes Capecitabine?
Capecitabine is made by Hoffmann-La Roche, Inc.
What Is Capecitabine Used For?
Specific capecitabine uses include the treatment of:
Colon or rectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic colorectal cancer).
Breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic breast cancer) -- this is treated with a combination of capecitabine and docetaxel (Taxotere®).
Metastatic breast cancer in people who have not improved after treatment with other medicines, including paclitaxel (Onxol®, Taxol®) and anthracycline chemotherapy medications, or for those who cannot take any more anthracycline medications.
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