Capecitabine
Capecitabine is an oral chemotherapy medication known by the original brand name Xeloda. It serves as an antimetabolite agent used in various cancer treatment plans. Capnat provides the available form for specific oncology needs.
Key points
- Classed as a fluoropyrimidine carbamate, it works as a prodrug, becoming active against cancer cells only once the body has absorbed and converted it.
- It accumulates more readily in tumour tissue than in surrounding healthy tissue, giving the treatment its targeted effect on cancer cells.
- It treats colorectal, breast and gastric cancers, usually as one part of a wider treatment plan directed by an oncologist.
What is Capecitabine?
Capecitabine belongs to a class of medications called fluoropyrimidine carbamates. It acts as a prodrug, meaning the body converts the chemical into an active anti-cancer compound after it is absorbed. This targeted approach allows the medication to accumulate more effectively in tumour tissues compared to surrounding healthy cells.
What Capecitabine is used for
Medical providers use this medication to support patients managing specific conditions. These include Colorectal Cancer, Breast Cancer, and Gastric Cancer. It is generally utilised as part of a broader treatment protocol defined by an oncologist.
Capecitabine brands and forms
The original formulation is known as Xeloda, and generic options like Capnat exist. These are commonly available as a film-coated tablet for oral administration. For information on the broader context of these treatments, see Oncology Support.
Safety overview for Capecitabine
What to check before using this medicine
Patients often require baseline assessments of liver, kidney, or heart function before starting this treatment.
Possible reactions and tolerability
Diarrhoea, fatigue, and hand-foot syndrome are documented reactions associated with this chemical class.
Interactions and health factors
Pre-existing health conditions or other medications can influence treatment suitability. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.
Further reading
What cancers is capecitabine used to treat?
Capecitabine is used to treat colorectal, breast and gastric cancers. It is generally part of a broader treatment protocol defined by an oncologist.
How does capecitabine work in the body?
Capecitabine is a prodrug that the body converts into an active anti-cancer compound after it is absorbed. It is converted to 5-fluorouracil primarily within the tumour, where it blocks cell division.
What health checks are needed before starting capecitabine?
Baseline assessments of liver, kidney or heart function are often required before starting this treatment.
What side effects can capecitabine cause?
Diarrhoea, nausea, stomatitis and fatigue are common side effects. Severe dehydration and cardiotoxicity are serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you notice any side effects.
Can capecitabine interact with other medicines?
Capecitabine can interact with warfarin, phenytoin and folinic acid. Pre-existing health conditions or other medications can also influence treatment suitability. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you take.
Who should not take capecitabine?
Capecitabine is not suitable for people with a hypersensitivity to capecitabine, severe renal impairment or dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency. A doctor can advise on whether it is appropriate for you.
Which capecitabine products does Yasabai sell?
Products containing capecitabine include Capnat. Compare forms, strengths and packs in the listings above.
What are other names for capecitabine?
Besides the products listed here, capecitabine is sold under brand names such as Xeloda. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare.
Can I buy capecitabine over the counter in Thailand?
Yes, online. Yasabai does not ask for a prescription to order capecitabine. We are an online store, not a dispensing pharmacy; we arrange your order and delivery on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Where can I buy capecitabine online?
Our pharmacy partners ship from India to Thailand and across Asia in discreet packaging. Standard Airmail takes up to 3 weeks; Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week.
How ordering works →