Atubri (capecitabine) 500mg: Use, Side Effects, Precautions - Aark Pharma
Atubri (capecitabine) 500mg
Capecitabine is an oral chemotherapy medication used in the treatment of certain types of cancer. It is a prodrug, meaning that it is converted into its active form, fluorouracil, by enzymes in the body. Here are some common uses of capecitabine:
Breast Cancer: Capecitabine is often prescribed for breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic breast cancer) and is not responding to other treatments. It may be used alone or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.
Colorectal Cancer: Capecitabine is used in the treatment of advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer, either as a single agent or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. It may also be used after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence
Gastric (Stomach) Cancer: Capecitabine is sometimes used in the treatment of advanced or metastatic gastric cancer, either alone or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.
Pancreatic Cancer: Capecitabine may be used as part of combination chemotherapy regimens for advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer.
It's important to note that capecitabine should only be prescribed and used under the supervision of a qualified oncologist or healthcare professional, as it can have significant side effects and requires careful monitoring. The appropriate dosage and treatment plan will depend on the specific type and stage of cancer being treated, as well as individual patient factors.
Side Effects
Capecitabine, at a dose of 500mg, can cause several side effects. It's important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of capecitabine include:
Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, and loss of appetite are commonly reported side effects. These symptoms can usually be managed with medications and dietary modifications.
Hand-Foot Syndrome: This is a specific side effect of capecitabine. It causes redness, swelling, pain, and peeling of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Taking measures to keep the hands and feet cool, avoiding excessive pressure or friction, and using moisturizers can help alleviate symptoms.
Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy is a common side effect of chemotherapy, including capecitabine. It's important to balance rest and activity, and communicate with your healthcare team about managing fatigue.
Skin Reactions: Capecitabine may cause skin changes such as rash, dryness, itching, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Sun protection measures like wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen are recommended.
Hematological Effects: Capecitabine can affect blood cell counts, leading to a decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This can increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding. Regular blood tests are conducted to monitor these effects.
Hair Loss: While not as common as with some other chemotherapy drugs, capecitabine can cause hair thinning or hair loss.
Other Side Effects: Other possible side effects include headache, dizziness, altered taste sensation, nail changes, muscle or joint pain, and allergic reactions.
It's important to discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare team, as they can provide guidance on managing them and may adjust the dosage or prescribe additional medications if necessary.
Precautions
When taking capecitabine 500mg or any other medication, it's important to follow the precautions and recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. Here are some general precautions to keep in mind when using capecitabine:
Medical Supervision: Capecitabine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, typically an oncologist. They will monitor your condition, adjust the dosage if needed, and manage any side effects that may occur.
Adherence to Dosage and Schedule: Take capecitabine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or schedule without consulting your doctor. Follow the instructions regarding when and how to take the medication, as well as any dietary guidelines that may be provided.
Avoid Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as they can interact with capecitabine and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. This includes over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and other prescription medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Capecitabine can harm the developing fetus, so it is not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss it with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate course of action. Capecitabine should also be avoided while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
Contraception: Capecitabine can affect fertility in both men and women. It's important to discuss contraception options with your healthcare provider if there is a possibility of pregnancy during treatment or for a certain period after treatment.

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