Xeloda Oral

Xeloda Oral Warning

Capecitabine may interact with "blood thinners" (anticoagulants such as warfarin or phenprocoumon) and cause serious, rarely fatal bleeding. In some cases, this bleeding has occurred up to one month after stopping capecitabine as well as during treatment.

If you are using an anticoagulant, your laboratory tests (INR/PT) will be closely monitored. Report any signs of bleeding or bruising (such as black stools) to your doctor immediately.

Xeloda Oral Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, tiredness, weakness, back/joint/muscle pain, headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, skin darkening, or dry/itchy skin may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be severe. Changes in diet and lifestyle, such as eating several small meals or limiting activity, may lessen some of these effects. If any of these effects continue or worsen, notify your doctor.

Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. Temporary nail changes may occur, which may rarely include fungal infections in the nail beds.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Diarrhea is a common side effect of this medication. It may become very severe (possibly fatal). To decrease this side effect, your doctor may prescribe medication (e.g., loperamide) to control your symptoms, replace lost fluids by vein, or stop treatment with capecitabine. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent serious problems due to a loss of too much body water (dehydration). If you experience signs of severe diarrhea (e.g., 4 or more stools per day, diarrhea at night, bloody stools), or if you experience signs of dehydration (e.g., dizziness, decreased amount of urine), stop taking this drug and tell your doctor immediately.

Stop taking capecitabine and tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects: