Capegard 500 Tablet (Capecitabine 500mg): Comprehensive Medicine Guide
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe diarrhea (more than 4-6 stools per day) or blood in stool
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat
- Severe mouth ulcers preventing eating or drinking
- Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
- Decreased urine output or swelling in legs
- Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is capegard 500 tablet used for?
This medicine is an oral chemotherapy drug containing capecitabine 500 mg. It is used to treat colorectal, breast, and gastric cancers. It works by converting to 5-fluorouracil in the body, which stops cancer cell growth. It is taken twice daily for 14 days followed by a 7-day rest period, as prescribed by an oncologist.
- Generic Name: Capecitabine
- Manufacturer: Cipla Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 capegard 500 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा कैपेसिटाबिन 500 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक मौखिक कीमोथेरेपी दवा है। इसका उपयोग कोलोरेक्टल कैंसर, स्तन कैंसर और गैस्ट्रिक कैंसर के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह शरीर में 5-फ्लोरोयूरासिल में परिवर्तित होकर कैंसर कोशिकाओं की वृद्धि को रोकती है। इसे आमतौर पर 14 दिनों तक दिन में दो बार लिया जाता है, उसके बाद 7 दिन का आराम। इस दवा को केवल कैंसर रोग विशेषज्ञ के पर्चे पर ही लिया जाना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, मतली, उल्टी, मुंह के छाले, थकान, और हाथ-पैर सिंड्रोम शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गंभीर दस्त, रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी, हृदय समस्याएं, और यकृत विषाक्तता शामिल हैं। किसी भी असामान्य लक्षण को तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। इसे भोजन के साथ लें। गर्भावस्था और स्तनपान के दौरान इसका सेवन न करें। शराब से बचें। नियमित रक्त परीक्षण कराएं। तेज दस्त, बुखार, सीने में दर्द, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई होने पर तुरंत चिकित्सा सहायता लें।
💊 capegard 500 tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Colorectal cancer","description":"Used as adjuvant therapy after surgery for stage III colon cancer and for metastatic colorectal cancer, often in combination with oxaliplatin or irinotecan.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Breast cancer","description":"Used as a single agent or in combination with docetaxel for metastatic breast cancer, particularly in patients who have not responded to other treatments.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gastric cancer","description":"Used in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Esophageal cancer","description":"Used in combination regimens for advanced esophageal cancer.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Pancreatic cancer","description":"Sometimes used in combination for advanced pancreatic cancer.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Biliary tract cancer","description":"Occasionally used off-label in combination regimens for advanced biliary tract cancers.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Anal cancer","description":"May be used off-label in combination with mitomycin and radiation for anal cancer.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Colorectal cancer
Also treats: Breast cancer, Gastric cancer, Esophageal cancer
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Capecitabine |
| Brand Name | bdocin 500mg capsule |
| Manufacturer | Cipla Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Antimetabolites |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container, tightly closed, away from moisture and heat. Do not refrigerate. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine is a prodrug that is absorbed intact from the gastrointestinal tract and then converted to 5-fluorouracil through a three-step enzymatic process. The final step is mediated by thymidine phosphorylase, which is found at higher levels in tumor tissues than in normal tissues, providing some selectivity. 5-Fluorouracil then inhibits thymidylate synthase, blocking the synthesis of thymidine nucleotides needed for DNA replication. It also incorporates into RNA and DNA, disrupting their function and leading to cell death. This medicine primarily affects rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells and some normal cells such as those in the bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and skin.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take capegard 500 tablet
Strength: Tablet, 500 mg
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 1250 mg/m² taken orally twice daily for 14 days followed by a 7-day rest period, as part of a 21-day cycle. For adjuvant colon cancer, the dose may be 1250 mg/m² twice daily for 14 days every 21 days for 8 cycles. For metastatic breast cancer, the dose may be 1250 mg/m² twice daily for 14 days every 21 days, often in combination with docetaxel. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and toxicity. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially gastrointestinal toxicity and hand-foot syndrome. Dose reduction may be necessary based on renal function and tolerability. Close monitoring is recommended. |
| Renal Impairment | For patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min), a dose reduction to 75% of the standard dose is recommended. This medicine is contraindicated in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min). |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is provided for hepatic impairment in the product labeling. However, caution is advised in patients with liver dysfunction, and close monitoring is recommended. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 2500 mg/m² per day, divided into two doses. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of capegard 500 tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Phenytoin | Major | |
| Leucovorin | Major | |
| Live vaccines | Major | |
| Allopurinol | Moderate | |
| Metronidazole | Moderate | |
| Fosphenytoin | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Grapefruit | Minor | |
| Alcohol | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Warfarin
- Phenytoin
- Leucovorin
- Live vaccines
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Allopurinol
- Metronidazole
- Fosphenytoin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity and gastrointestinal side effects. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine should only be prescribed by a qualified oncologist.","Patients with renal impairment require dose reduction.","Patients with DPD deficiency are at increased risk of severe toxicity.","Monitor for hand-foot syndrome and adjust dose if it occurs.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after.","Report any signs of infection, bleeding, or severe diarrhea immediately.","This medicine may impair fertility in men and women."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, bone marrow suppression, and mucositis. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. In case of overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately. Hemodialysis may be considered but is not established to be effective.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is within 30 minutes of the scheduled time. If more than 30 minutes have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take another dose; wait until the next scheduled dose.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine is a powerful chemotherapy drug and must be handled with care. Always take it exactly as prescribed by your oncologist, and never adjust the dose on your own. Swallow the tablets whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal. If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose; follow your doctor's guidance. Avoid contact with broken or crushed tablets, and wash your hands if you accidentally touch them. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least six months after the last dose. Men should also use contraception during treatment and for three months after. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially blood thinners like warfarin, phenytoin, and leucovorin. Avoid live vaccines during treatment. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor your blood counts, liver, and kidney function. Seek immediate medical help if you experience severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, chills, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially gastrointestinal toxicity and hand-foot syndrome. Close monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can harm the unborn baby. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Men should use contraception for at least 3 months after the last dose. Discuss pregnancy planning with your doctor before starting treatment.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine is often used after surgery for colorectal cancer. Ensure adequate wound healing before starting treatment. Follow your surgeon's and oncologist's instructions.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. You may be at increased risk of bleeding or infection. Your dentist may recommend postponing elective procedures until your blood counts recover.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Exercise as tolerated, but avoid strenuous activities if you feel fatigued or dizzy. Listen to your body and rest when needed. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause fatigue, dizziness, or hand-foot syndrome, which can affect your ability to work or drive. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel unwell. Discuss work adjustments with your employer and doctor.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your oncologist. Stopping early may reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Your doctor may adjust the dose or stop treatment if you experience severe side effects.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may lead to chronic hand-foot syndrome, persistent fatigue, and increased risk of infections due to bone marrow suppression. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is essential. Some patients may experience long-term heart effects. Fertility may be affected in both men and women. Discuss any long-term concerns with your oncologist.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
An alternative fluoropyrimidine given intravenously.
Evidence: Well-establishedMay be used in combination or as an alternative for certain cancers.
Evidence: Moderate💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Avoid live vaccines during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but their effectiveness may be reduced. Consult your doctor before any vaccination.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage. Store at room temperature and avoid extreme heat or cold. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Declare the medicine at customs if required.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working immediately, but noticeable effects on tumor size may take several weeks to months. Your doctor will monitor your progress with regular scans and tests.
A: Yes, take this medicine within 30 minutes after a meal to reduce stomach upset.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if within 30 minutes. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
A: It is advisable to avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity and gastrointestinal side effects.
A: No, this medicine can harm the unborn baby and is contraindicated in pregnancy. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for capegard 500 tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
capcita 500mg tabletWockhardt Ltd ₹81.25 90.5% CHEAPER
-
capad 500mg tabletOncocare Scientifics Pvt Ltd ₹83.44 90.2% CHEAPER
-
caxeta 500mg tabletSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹481.61 43.6% CHEAPER
-
distamine 500mg tabletNeon Laboratories Ltd ₹706.00 17.3% CHEAPER
-
capecad 500mg tabletCadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹952.37 11.5% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be taken without a prescription.
Fact: This medicine is a prescription-only chemotherapy drug and must be prescribed by an oncologist. - Myth: This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy.
Fact: This medicine can harm the unborn baby and is contraindicated in pregnancy. - Myth: You can stop taking this medicine if you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor to achieve the best outcome.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Capecitabine 500 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Xeloda
- Capegard 500 tablet