Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow rapidly and uncontrollably in breasts, forming tumors. However, if detected early, it is highly treatable. In addition, the survival rate is very good.  Doctor uses different chemotherapy agents to treat breast cancer. One of them is Capegard 500mg tablet. However, doctors prescribe it alone or in combination with other anti cancer drugs for treating breast cancer depending on its stage and condition of patient.

What is Capegard 500mg Tablet?

It is an oral chemotherapy agent, which belongs to a group of medicines called antimetabolites. It contains Capecitabine as active ingredient. In addition, it is a prescription medicine which comes under Schedule H medicines in India. Moreover, a giant pharmaceutical company known as Cipla Ltd. manufactures these tablets, each tablet contains 500mg of Capecitabine and is used to treat different types of cancer including breast cancer.

How Does It Work?

After swallowing the tablet, it enters the body and remains in its inactive form. However, after the enzymatic actions in the body, it transforms into 5-fluorouracil, which is its active form. This active form blocks the enzyme thymidylate synthase, which is important for DNA synthesis in cancer cells. This interference prevents synthesis of DNA in the breast cancer cells. As a result, it inhibits multiplication and growth of the cancer cells.

Is It Used To Manage Other Cancer Too?

Other than breast cancer, doctors prescribe this medicine to treat other types of cancer too. For example, doctors also prescribe it to treat :

• Gastric cancer

• Colorectal cancer

• Oesophageal cancer

• Pancreatic cancer

Common Side Effects To Expect

Just like other anticancer drugs, it can also cause some side effects. However, the frequency and type of these effects may differ from person to person. Generally, the body adjusts to these side effects with time. If you feel these for a long time or any unusual symptoms, report them to your doctor.

For example, some commonly reported side effects may include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Headache

• Stomach discomfort

• Diarrhea

• Hand foot syndrome

• Tiredness

• Rash

• Loss of appetite

However, Some patients may also experience these serious side effects:

• Bloody diarrhoea

• Liver toxicity

• Decrease in RBC counts

• Irregular heartbeat

Key Things To Keep In Mind During Treatment

• Swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water.

• In addition, do not chew or break the tablet.

• Take the tablet within half an hour after a meal.

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

• Attend blood tests regularly.

• Attend kidney tests too.

• Report  unusual and severe symptoms.

• Talk to your doctor before taking a vaccine or any new medicine.

• Attend regular follow up appointments

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is an oral chemotherapy medicine that can be crucial in breast cancer treatment if taken under proper medical guidance. However, it is also used in management of other cancer types too. Patients should keep a few things in their mind before purchasing this tablet. Always buy Capegard 500mg tablet from an authentic and trusted source. During the treatment, follow the doctor’s instructions, stay hydrated and attend regular check-ups.

FAQ

How should I take Capegard 500mg tablet?

It is an oral chemotherapy medicine. Swallow it whole with a glass of water. In addition, take it within 30 minutes after finishing a meal.

Is this a prescription medicine?

Yes, it is a prescription only medicine.