Cancer medicines
Capecitabine
Capecitabine
An oral chemotherapy converted into 5-FU in the body.
Sources checked · Introductory guide
On this page
How it works
An antimetabolite that inhibits cancer-cell growth.[1]
Where it is used
Prescribed for colorectal, breast and stomach cancers, among others; follow your prescribed schedule.[1]
Key safety points
Report painful red hands/feet, severe diarrhea or bleeding. Review warfarin and other medicines, and instructions for missed or vomited doses.[2]
DPD before treatment
DPD deficiency increases severe toxicity risk. Discuss testing and risk before treatment.[3]
Questions for your care team
- What should I do if I miss a dose or vomit?
Sources and scope
Source documents are in English.
- NCI · Capecitabine (opens in a new tab)
- MedlinePlus · Capecitabine (opens in a new tab)
- FDA · DPD deficiency and capecitabine/5-FU safety (opens in a new tab)
General information based on official public sources. This is not a complete list of uses or side effects. Individual treatment decisions require your care team and current source documents. US-source uses do not establish local approval or reimbursement.