Xeloda 150 is a medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of certain types of cancer, including breast, colon, and colorectal cancer. The active ingredient in Xeloda 150 is capecitabine, which belongs to a class of drugs known as antimetabolites.
Dosage and Administration:
Xeloda 150 is available as a 150 mg tablet. The dosage and treatment schedule may vary depending on the specific type and stage of cancer being treated. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. The dosage range typically recommended for adults is 1,250 to 2,500 mg per square meter of body surface area, divided into two equal doses taken in the morning and evening.
The tablets should be swallowed whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal. The treatment usually involves taking Xeloda for a specific number of days, followed by a rest period. This cycle may be repeated several times depending on the response to treatment.
Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and treatment duration based on your individual circumstances, including your overall health, kidney function, and other factors.
It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule and not to modify the dose or treatment duration without consulting your doctor.
Possible Side Effects:
Like many chemotherapy medications, Xeloda 150 can cause side effects. These may vary in severity and can include:
- Gastrointestinal Effects: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, indigestion, and loss of appetite are common side effects. It is essential to stay well-hydrated and report any severe or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms to your healthcare provider.
- Hand-Foot Syndrome: Xeloda can cause redness, swelling, tingling, or pain in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Notify your doctor if you experience these symptoms, as they may require dose adjustment or management strategies.
- Hematological Effects: Xeloda may lower the number of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This can increase the risk of anemia, infections, and bleeding. Regular blood tests will be conducted to monitor your blood cell counts.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a common side effect of Xeloda. Ensure you get enough rest and inform your doctor if the fatigue becomes severe or persistent.
- Other Side Effects: Xeloda may also cause headache, dizziness, taste changes, hair loss, skin rash, and nail changes.
It is essential to discuss potential side effects with your doctor, as they can provide guidance on managing and mitigating these effects.
Precautions:
Before starting Xeloda 150, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, including liver or kidney problems, a history of heart disease, or known allergies to medications. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, as they may interact with Xeloda.
It is crucial to avoid becoming pregnant or fathering a child while undergoing treatment with Xeloda, as it can harm the developing fetus. Appropriate contraceptive measures should be taken during treatment and for a certain period after the completion of therapy.
In conclusion, Xeloda 150 (150 mg tablet) contains the active ingredient capecitabine and is commonly used to treat certain types of cancer. The dosage and treatment schedule will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your specific condition. Adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule is crucial. Xeloda may cause various side effects, so it is important to report any concerning symptoms to your doctor. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, current medications, and potential pregnancy plans before starting Xeloda.