Capicet 500 Mg Tablet
What is Capicet 500
Capicet 500 is an oral anticancer medication primarily used to treat metastatic breast cancer and colorectal cancer in adult patients. Its active ingredient is Capecitabine, which belongs to the antimetabolite class of chemotherapy drugs. Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd manufactures it.
Capicet is often prescribed for people who have not responded adequately to other treatments, including anthracycline and taxane therapies for breast cancer or as adjuvant therapy (after primary treatment) following surgery for stage III colon cancer.
Capicet functions as a prodrug that converts to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in tumor tissues, inhibiting DNA synthesis and disrupting cell division. Common side effects include hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia), diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and mouth sores.
The standard dosage is calculated based on body surface area and is typically administered twice daily for 14 days, followed by a 7-day rest period, constituting a 21-day treatment cycle.
What are the benefits of Capicet 500
Capicet 500 (Capecitabine) works through a three-step enzymatic conversion process. After absorption, it remains inactive until it reaches the liver, which undergoes partial metabolism.
The medicine is then further converted to its active form, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), preferentially within tumor tissues due to higher concentrations of the enzyme thymidine phosphorylase in cancer cells.
This action hampers the synthesis of genetic materials (RNA and DNA) in the cancer cells, interfering with their growth. This targeted activation also helps maximize efficacy while potentially reducing systemic toxicity.
Capicet 500 offers multiple benefits:
- Oral administration allows for convenient at-home treatment without the need for frequent hospital visits for IV chemotherapy.
- Demonstrates efficacy in breast and colorectal cancers, including cases resistant to other therapies.
- It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other anticancer agents for enhanced effectiveness.
- Shows tumor-selective activation, potentially improving the therapeutic index.
It is crucial to note that response to Capicet varies among individuals, and regular treatment efficacy and tolerability assessment is essential.
How to take Capicet 500
Capicet is a prescription medication that should be taken strictly as directed by your oncologist. Here are the general guidelines:
- Take Capicet tablets twice daily (morning and evening) within 30 minutes after meals.
- Swallow tablets whole with water; do not crush, cut, or dissolve.
- Take it with food.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose based on your body surface area.
Strength and substitutes
Currently, the strength alternative available for Capicet at Cheap Medicine Shop is:
$12.5/10 Tablets |
What are the side effects of Capicet 500
Capicet is associated with various side effects that require careful monitoring. These include:
- Hand-foot syndrome (redness, pain, swelling, and occasionally blistering of palms and soles)
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomatitis (inflammation and ulceration of the mouth lining)
- Fatigue and weakness
These adverse effects are mild and resolve quickly. However, it should be reported promptly to your healthcare provider as they may necessitate dose modifications or temporary treatment interruption.
Safety Advice
Liver disease
People with mild to moderate liver impairment should use Capicet with caution. Close monitoring without initial dose adjustment is typically recommended for those with mild liver impairment. Capicet is not recommended for patients with severe hepatic dysfunction.
Kidney impairment
Dose adjustments are required for people with renal impairment. Capicet is contraindicated in people with severe renal impairment.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women
Capicet 500 is contraindicated during pregnancy as it may cause fetal harm. Women must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months following the final dose. Due to the chances of serious adverse events in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the last tablet.
Avoid
Avoid consuming grapefruit or its juice while taking Capicet 500, as this may increase blood levels of the medication and risk of toxicity. Alcohol consumption should be minimized or eliminated during treatment as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects.
FAQs
How long will I need to take Capicet 500 Mg Tablet?
Treatment duration varies based on your specific cancer type, stage, and response to therapy. Most patients receive multiple treatment cycles (each 21 days), typically ranging from 4-8 cycles for adjuvant therapy or until disease progression for metastatic disease.
Can I consume alcohol while taking Capicet?
No, alcohol consumption is not recommended during Capicet treatment as it may worsen side effects, particularly gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Alcohol may also place additional stress on your liver, which is involved in metabolizing Capicet.
Can I drive after taking Capicet 500mg Tablet?
No, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Capicet may cause fatigue, dizziness, or vision changes that might affect your ability to drive. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor before resuming driving.
Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Capicet 500mg Tablet?
Maintain adequate hydration and balanced nutrition during treatment. Avoid grapefruit products, as they may increase drug levels. Small, frequent meals may help manage nausea. Consider consulting a dietitian for personalized advice on maintaining nutritional status during therapy.
Should Capicet 500mg Tablet be taken with or without food?
Capicet 500mg should be taken with food, specifically within 30 minutes after the end of a meal. Food helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects and improves absorption of the medication. Consistent timing with respect to meals helps maintain stable drug levels.
Do I need to use a birth control method while using Capicet 500mg Tablet?
Yes, effective contraception is mandatory during Capicet treatment and for at least 6 months afterward for both female patients and male patients with female partners of childbearing potential. The medication can cause fetal harm and potentially affect sperm quality.