Kapetral

Capecitabine, the active ingredient in Kapetral, is an antimetabolite (fluoropyrimidine) presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It is indicated for certain metastatic solid tumours, most commonly colorectal and breast cancer, in adult patients. GNH USA supplies Kapetral as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving oncology centres worldwide.

Capecitabine is employed in the management of solid tumours that are responsive to fluoropyrimidine therapy.

Metastatic colorectal cancer: improves disease control and extends survival when used in combination with other agents. Metastatic breast cancer: provides therapeutic benefit after prior chemotherapy regimens. Adjuvant colon cancer (high‑risk): used to reduce recurrence risk following surgical resection.

Capecitabine may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea and vomiting - Diarrhoea - Hand‑foot syndrome (palmar‑plantar erythrodysesthesia) - Fatigue - Alopecia - Decreased appetite

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe neutropenia or leukopenia - Thrombocytopenia - Grade 3/4 hand‑foot syndrome - Cardiac toxicity (e.g., angina, myocardial infarction) - Severe allergic reactions (e.g., Stevens‑Johnson syndrome) - Hepatotoxicity

Capecitabine requires careful monitoring and patient education before and during therapy.

Renal function: assess creatinine clearance and adjust dose in renal impairment. Hepatic function: monitor liver enzymes; use cautiously in hepatic disease. Cardiac history: avoid in patients with recent myocardial infarction or uncontrolled angina. Pregnancy and lactation: contraindicated unless benefits outweigh risks; discuss with obstetric specialist. Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential interactions. Store at ambient temperature: keep in original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Capecitabine can interact with several medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin) – may reduce drug exposure. - Anticoagulants (warfarin) – increased risk of bleeding. - Antiepileptics (phenytoin, carbamazepine) – may lower plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Fluoropyrimidine antagonists (uridine triacetate) – may affect toxicity management. - NSAIDs – heightened gastrointestinal toxicity. - St. John’s wort – possible reduction of capecitabine exposure.