Drug reference
capecitabine
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Oncology (Anti Metabolite)
Mechanism of action
Fluoropyrimidine carbamate with antineoplastic activity; it is a prodrug of 5’-deoxy-5-fluorouridine (F'-DFCR), which is then converted to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) Both normal and tumor cells metabolize 5-FU to 5-fluoro-2’-deoxyuridine monophosphate (FdUMP) and 5-fluorouridine triphosphate (FUTP)
Common side effects
- Anemia
- Edema
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Lymphopenia
- Hand and foot syndrome
- Diarrhea
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is capecitabine?
capecitabine belongs to: Oncology.
How does capecitabine work?
Fluoropyrimidine carbamate with antineoplastic activity; it is a prodrug of 5’-deoxy-5-fluorouridine (F'-DFCR), which is then converted to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) Both normal and tumor cells metabolize 5-FU to 5-fluoro-2’-deoxyuridine monophosphate (FdUMP) and 5-fluorouridine triphosphate (FUTP)
What are the common side effects of capecitabine?
Anemia, Edema, Fatigue, Nausea, Lymphopenia, Hand and foot syndrome, Diarrhea
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