Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide is an anticancer drug that belongs to the category of medicines known as antimetabolite and alkylating agents. It was approved in April 1998 to treat Metastatic colorectal cancer.

Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide has been developed as a first-line agent to treat advanced and metastatic colorectal cancer and also indicated as an adjunct treatment for stage III colon cancer after the failure of Irinotecan therapy. Capecitabine is also prescribed to treat breast cancer after the failure of taxane-based therapy.

Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide is available in the form of 500mg tablets. Swallow a tablet with water 30 minutes after food. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet, seek help from a healthcare provider specialized in the usage of cytotoxic medications to crush or cut the tablet. The accurate dose will be calculated by your healthcare provider and the recommended dosing cycle is twice a day for 2 weeks followed by a 7-days rest period.

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, skin reactions, stomatitis, abdominal pain, constipation, hair loss, rashes, erythema, tiredness, lethargy, dizziness, loss of appetite, conjunctivitis, anaemia, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia. If you experience any allergic or unusual reactions after taking this medicine, report to your doctor immediately.

It is not recommended to take Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide Tablets if you are allergic to the drug or any of its ingredients. During the treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your complete blood counts, prothrombin time, INR, blood sugar, electrolytes, liver panel, and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with stomach ulcers, cataracts, lung disease, or problems in your heart, liver, skin, or kidneys. Tell your physician before you undergo eye surgery or dental procedures. 

Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide may impair fertility in male and female patients. This drug is not recommended during pregnancy as it causes harm to the unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider before beginning this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. It is advised for both men and women to follow proper contraceptive methods during and for 3 months after the last dose of Capecitabine. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while you are on the treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose of Capecitabine.

Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide causes skin dryness so it is advised to use an effective moisturiser for your skin. Ensure that you stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Store the drug in the original package at room temperature (25°C). Do not freeze. Keep it out of reach from children and pets. It is important to get the dose at the scheduled time. 

If you missed the schedule, contact your doctor and reschedule the dose. Avoid driving or operating heavy machines if you experience dizziness, nausea or tiredness while on treatment with Capecitabine and cyclophosphamide.

1. Genentech USA, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on March 2015] [ Accessed on 9th March 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/020896s037lbl.pdf
2. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 864.
3. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Cytotoxic agents, 12th edition, 2011, 1698.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.