

Capecitabine
11 snips Jul 8, 2021
Discover the fascinating world of capecitabine, a prodrug of 5-FU, and learn about its unique activation in the body. Explore its historical development and the advantages it offers over traditional therapies. Delve into its uses across various cancers, highlighting important pharmacokinetics and the role of food intake in treatment. The discussion also uncovers potential toxicities and the increased risks for patients with DPD deficiency, alongside how dietary folate can influence treatment success.
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Capecitabine Tumor-Selective Activation
- Capecitabine converts preferentially to 5-FU in tumor cells due to higher tumor enzyme levels.
- This targeted activation explains its tumor-selective toxicity profile.
Capecitabine Advances Over Prior Prodrugs
- Capecitabine replaced earlier 5-FU prodrugs due to better tolerability and logistics.
- It allows oral administration avoiding continuous infusional 5-FU regimens.
Capecitabine Pharmacokinetics and Food
- Capecitabine has nearly 100% bioavailability and should be taken within 30 minutes of food to maintain consistency.
- Food decreases absorption but not active 5-FU exposure; dosing consistency is key.