April 1, 2026
Breast Care World
Capecitabine
Topic:
Volume 1, Issue 2
Pink Ribbon Journal
Read more . . .
Missed a Dose? Don’t Worry
If you forget to take your dose:
– Do not take an extra dose.
– Just take your next dose as normal.
– Let your doctor or nurse know.
How Long Will I Take It?
This is different for everyone. Most people take capecitabine:
– As long as it is helping.
– Or until side effects become too difficult
Your specialist will guide you on what’s best for you.
Side Effects – What to Expect?
Many people cope well with capecitabine.
Side effects are often mild and manageable, but everyone is different.
Important:
If side effects become strong, your doctor may:
– Lower your dose.
– Or pause treatment for a while.
This is common and treatment can still work well.
Common Side Effects and What to Do?
Diarrhoea
This can sometimes be serious.
Call your doctor immediately if you have:
– 4 or more episodes in 24 hours
– Blood in your stool
– Stomach pain
Sore Hands and Feet
You may notice:
– Redness or soreness
– Tingling or numbness
– Dry or flaky skin
What helps:
– Moisturising creams
– Let your doctor know early
Capecitabine
Feeling Sick
– You may feel nauseous.
– You might not actually vomit.
Anti-sickness medicines can help—take them as prescribed.
Sore Mouth
– Mouth or gums may feel sore.
– Small ulcers can appear.
– Food may taste different.
Try:
– Sipping water.
– Sucking ice.
– Using recommended mouthwash.
Fatigue (Extreme Tiredness)
This is very common and can feel overwhelming.
Helpful tips:
– Balance rest and activity.
– Try short walks.
– Accept good days and bad days.
– Eat little and often.
– Accept help from others.
Always tell your care team—fatigue can sometimes be treated.
Hair Changes
– Usually mild thinning
– Complete hair loss is rare (unless combined with other treatments)
Loss of Appetite
– You may not feel like eating.
Try:
– Small, frequent meals.
– Ask for support from a dietitian.
Driving Safety
Capecitabine can make you:
– Tired.
– Dizzy.
– Sick.
Avoid driving if you feel unwell.
Allergic Reaction (Rare but serious)
Get help immediately if you have:
– Swelling.
– Chest pain.
– Breathing problems.
Risk of infection (low white cells)
Call your hospital immediately if you have:
– Fever above 38°C.
– Shivering.
– Sore throat.
Low red blood cells (anaemia)
You may feel:
– Very tired.
– Breathless.
– Dizzy.
Low platelets
You may notice:
– Easy bruising.
– Nosebleeds.
– Bleeding gums.
Always report these symptoms to your team.
Pregnancy and Safety!
– Capecitabine can harm an unborn baby.
– Use reliable contraception during treatment.
Taking Other Medicines?
Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.
Important:
– Blood thinners (like warfarin) may increase bleeding risk
January 1, 2026
Breast Care World
Capecitabine
Topic:
Volume 1, Issue 1
Pink Ribbon Journal
Read more . . .
Capecitabine
Your Journey with Capecitabine: Staying Strong Every Step
Capecitabine (also known as Xeloda) may be part of your treatment plan. Taking it as a tablet allows you to keep your daily routine while fighting cancer.
Why Capecitabine Might Be Part of Your Care
Your doctor may recommend capecitabine if:
– Breast cancer has returned nearby or spread to other parts of your body.
– It’s used alone or with other treatments, depending on your personal situation.
How Long Will You Be on Treatment?
Treatment duration is different for everyone. Many people continue as long as capecitabine is helping and side effects are manageable.
If the treatment changes or stops working, your care team will discuss other options with you—always focusing on your comfort, health, and wishes.
How This Medicine Protects You and Fights Cancer
Capecitabine travels through your body and transforms inside cancer cells into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), the substance that attacks the cancer directly.
It works mostly inside cancer cells, which helps protect healthy cells and may reduce side effects. By slowing the growth of cancer cells, it helps keep the disease under control while supporting your quality of life.
Taking Capecitabine: Making It Part of Your Routine
– Usually taken twice a day after meals for 14 days, followed by a 7-day break.
– Comes in 150 mg and 500 mg tablets, tailored to your body and needs.
– Swallow tablets whole with water.
Missed a dose: Don't worry?
Take your next dose as scheduled—never double up. Let your nurse or doctor know so they can help keep your treatment on track.