Capecitabine (capecitabine 500 mg) Dailymed
Generic: capecitabine
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Warning: Increased Risk Of Bleeding With Concomitant Use Of Vitamin K Antagonists
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Recent Major Changes Section
Boxed Warning (12/2022)
Indications and Usage, Colorectal Cancer (1.1 ) (12/2022)
Indications and Usage, Breast Cancer (1.2 ) (12/2022)
Indications and Usage, Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer (1.3 ) (12/2022)
Indications and Usage, Pancreatic Cancer (1.4 ) (12/2022)
Dosage and Administration (2.1-2.7 ) (12/2022)
Contraindications (4 ) (12/2022)
Warnings and Precautions (5.1-5.12 ) (12/2022)
Warning: Increased Risk Of Bleeding With Concomitant Use Of Vitamin K Antagonists
Altered coagulation parameters and/or bleeding, including death, have been reported in patients taking capecitabine concomitantly with oral vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1), Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] .
Clinically significant increases in prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) have been reported in patients who were on stable doses of a vitamin K antagonist at the time capecitabine was introduced. These events occurred within several days and up to several months after initiating capecitabine and, in a few cases, within 1 month after stopping capecitabine. These events occurred in patients with and without liver metastases.
Monitor INR more frequently and adjust the dose of the vitamin K antagonist as appropriate [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2)] .
WARNING: INCREASED RISK OF BLEEDING WITH CONCOMITANT USE OF VITAMIN K ANTAGONISTS
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
Altered coagulation parameters and/or bleeding, including death, have been reported in patients taking capecitabine concomitantly with oral vitamin K antagonists. (5.1 ,7.2 )
Monitor international normalized ratio (INR) more frequently and adjust the dose of the vitamin K antagonist as appropriate. (7.2 )
1 Indications And Usage
Capecitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor indicated for:
Colorectal Cancer
• adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a single agent or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. (1.1 )• perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy. (1.1 )• treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a single agent or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. (1.1 )
Breast Cancer
• treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer as a single agent if an anthracycline- or taxane-containing chemotherapy is not indicated. (1.2 )• treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer in combination with docetaxel after disease progression on prior anthracycline-containing chemotherapy. (1.2 )
Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
• treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. (1.3 )• treatment of adults with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma who have not received prior treatment for metastatic disease as a component of a combination regimen. (1.3 )
Pancreatic Cancer
• adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. (1.4 )1.1 Colorectal Cancer
Capecitabine is indicated for the:
• adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a single agent or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. • perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy. • treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a single agent or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. 1.2 Breast Cancer
Capecitabine is indicated for the:
• treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer as a single agent if an anthracycline- or taxane-containing chemotherapy is not indicated. • treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer in combination with docetaxel after disease progression on prior anthracycline-containing chemotherapy. 1.3 Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
Capecitabine is indicated for the:
• treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. • treatment of adults with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma who have not received prior treatment for metastatic disease as a component of a combination regimen. 1.4 Pancreatic Cancer
Capecitabine is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen.
2 Dosage And Administration
Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer
• Single agent: 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily orally for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles. (2.1 ) In combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens: 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle. (2.1 )
Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer
• With Concomitant Radiation Therapy: 825 mg/m2 orally twice daily (2.1 )• Without Radiation Therapy: 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily (2.1 )
Unresectable or Metastatic Colorectal Cancer:
• Single agent: 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily orally for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. (2.1 )• In Combination with Oxaliplatin: 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle. (2.1 )
Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer:
• Single agent: 1,000 mg/m2 or 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily orally for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. (2.2 )• In combination with docetaxel: 1,000 mg/m2 or 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle, until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with docetaxel at 75 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle (2.2 )
Unresectable or Metastatic Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
• 625 mg/m2 orally twice daily on days 1 to 21 of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy. (2.3 )OR • 850 mg/m2 or 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle. (2.3 )
HER2-overexpressing metastatic adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction or stomach
• 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with cisplatin and trastuzumab. (2.3 )
Pancreatic cancer
• 830 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 21 days of each 28-day cycle for maximum of 6 cycles in combination with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 administered intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 of each cycle. (2.4 )
Refer to Sections 2.5 and 2.6 for information related to dosage modifications for adverse reactions and renal impairment (2.5 and2.6 ).
2.1 Recommended Dosage for Colorectal Cancer
Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer:
Single Agent:
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles.
In Combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens:
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
Refer to the oxaliplatin prescribing information for additional dosing information as appropriate.
Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer:
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 825 mg/m2 orally twice daily when administered with concomitant radiation therapy and 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily when administered without radiation therapy as part of a peri-operative combination regimen.
Unresectable or Metastatic Colorectal Cancer:
Single Agent:
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
In Combination with Oxaliplatin:
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
Refer to the Prescribing Information for oxaliplatin for additional dosing information as appropriate.
2.2 Recommended Dosage for Breast Cancer
Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer:
Single Agent:
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 1,000 mg/m2 or 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Individualize the dose and dosing schedule of capecitabine based on patient risk factors and adverse reactions.
In Combination with Docetaxel:
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 1,000 mg/m2 or 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with docetaxel 75 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
Refer to the Prescribing Information for docetaxel for additional dosing information as appropriate.
2.3 Recommended Dosage for Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
The recommended dosage of capecitabine for unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer is:
• 625 mg/m2 orally twice daily on days 1 to 21 of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy. OR • 850 mg/m2 or 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle. Individualize the dose and dosing schedule of capecitabine based on patient risk factors and adverse reactions.
The recommended dosage of capecitabine for HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma is 1,000 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with cisplatin and trastuzumab.
Refer to the Prescribing Information for agents used in combination for additional dosing information as appropriate.
2.4 Recommended Dosage for Pancreatic Cancer
The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 830 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 21 days of each 28-day cycle until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or for a maximum 6 cycles in combination with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 administered intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 of each cycle.
Refer to Prescribing Information for gemcitabine for additional dosing information as appropriate.
2.5 Dosage Modifications for Adverse Reactions
Monitor patients for adverse reactions and modify dosages of capecitabine as described in Table 1. Do not replace missed doses of capecitabine; instead resume capecitabine with the next planned dosage.
When capecitabine is administered with docetaxel, withhold capecitabine and docetaxel until the requirements for resuming both capecitabine and docetaxel are met. Refer to the Prescribing Information for docetaxel for additional dosing information as appropriate.
Table 1: Recommended Dosage Modifications for Adverse Reactions
Severity
Dosage Modification
Resume at Same or Reduced Dose(Percent of Current Dose)
Grade 2
1st appearance
Withhold until resolved to grade 0-1.
100%
2nd appearance
75%
3rd appearance
50%
4th appearance
Permanently discontinue.
-
Grade 3
1st appearance
Withhold until resolved to grade 0-1.
75%
2nd appearance
50%
3rd appearance
Permanently discontinue.
-
Grade 4
1st appearance
Permanently discontinue OR Withhold until resolved to grade 0-1.
50%
Hyperbilirubinemia:
Patients with Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia may resume treatment once the event is Grade 2 or less (less than three times the upper limit of normal), using the percent of current dose as shown in column 3 of Table 1 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] .
2.6 Dosage Modification for Renal Impairment
Reduce the dose of capecitabine by 25% for patients with creatinine clearance (CLcr) of 30 to 50 mL/min as determined by Cockcroft-Gault equation. A dosage has not been established in patients with severe renal impairment (CLcr <30 mL/min) [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6 )] .
2.7 Administration
Round the recommended dosage for patients to the nearest 150 mg dose to provide whole capecitabine tablets.
Swallow capecitabine tablets whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal. Do not chew, cut, or crush capecitabine tablets [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] .
Take capecitabine at the same time each day approximately 12 hours apart.
Do not take an additional dose after vomiting and continue with the next scheduled dose.
Do not take a missed dose and continue with the next scheduled dose.
Capecitabine is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.1
3 Dosage Forms And Strengths
Capecitabine Tablets, USP:
• 150 mg: pink to speckled pink film-coated, modified oval, beveled edge tablets with “54 242” on one side and plain on the other• 500 mg: pink to speckled pink film-coated, modified oval, beveled edge tablets with “54 706” on one side and plain on the other
Tablets: 150 mg and 500 mg (3 )
4 Contraindications
Capecitabine is contraindicated in patients with history of severe hypersensitivity reaction to fluorouracil or capecitabine [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] .
History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to fluorouracil or capecitabine (4 )
5 Warnings And Precautions
• Serious Adverse Reactions from Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD) Deficiency: Patients with certain homozygous or compound heterozygous variants in the DPYD gene are at increased risk for acute early-onset toxicity and serious, including fatal, adverse reactions due to capecitabine (e.g., mucositis, diarrhea, neutropenia, and neurotoxicity). Capecitabine is not recommended for use in patients known to have certain homozygous or compound heterozygous DPYD variants that result in complete absence of DPD activity. Withhold or permanently discontinue based on clinical assessment. No capecitabine dose has been proven safe in patients with complete absence of DPD activity. (5.2 )• Cardiotoxicity: May be more common in patients with a prior history of coronary artery disease. Withhold capecitabine for cardiotoxicity as appropriate. The safety of resumption of capecitabine in patients with cardiotoxicity that has resolved has not been established. (2.5 ,5.3 )• Diarrhea: Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence. (2.5 ,5.4 )• Dehydration: Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine. Monitor hydration status and kidney function at baseline and as clinically indicated. Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence. (2.5 ,5.5 )• Renal Toxicity: Monitor renal function at baseline and as clinically indicated. Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine. Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence. (2.5 ,5.6 )• Serious Skin Toxicities: Monitor for new or worsening serious skin reactions. Permanently discontinue capecitabine in patients who experience a severe cutaneous adverse reaction. (5.7 )• Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome: Withhold capecitabine then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence. (2.5 ,5.8 )• Myelosuppression: Monitor complete blood count at baseline and before each cycle. Capecitabine is not recommended in patients with baseline neutrophil counts <1.5 x 109/L or platelet counts <100 x 109/L. For grade 3 or 4 myelosuppression, withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on occurrence. (2.5 ,5.9 )• Hyperbilirubinemia: Patients with Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia may resume treatment once the event is Grade 2 or less (<3 x ULN), using the percent of current dose as shown in column 3 of Table 1 (2.5 ,5.10 )• Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise patients of the potential risk to a fetus and to use effective contraception. (5.11 ,8.1 ,8.3 )5.1 Increased Risk of Bleeding With Concomitant Use of Vitamin K Antagonists
Altered coagulation parameters and/or bleeding, including death, have been reported in patients taking capecitabine concomitantly with vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin.
Clinically significant increases in PT and INR have been reported in patients who were on stable doses of oral vitamin K antagonists at the time capecitabine was introduced. These events occurred within several days and up to several months after initiating capecitabine and, in a few cases, within 1 month after stopping capecitabine. These events occurred in patients with and without liver metastases.
Monitor INR more frequently and adjust the dose of the vitamin K antagonist as appropriate [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] .
5.2 Serious Adverse Reactions from Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD) Deficiency
Patients with certain homozygous or compound heterozygous variants in the DPYD gene known to result in complete or near complete absence of DPD activity (complete DPD deficiency) are at increased risk for acute early-onset toxicity and serious, including fatal, adverse reactions due to capecitabine (e.g., mucositis, diarrhea, neutropenia, and neurotoxicity). Patients with partial DPD activity (partial DPD deficiency) may also have increased risk of serious, including fatal, adverse reactions.
Capecitabine is not recommended for use in patients known to have certain homozygous or compound heterozygous DPYD variants that result in complete DPD deficiency.
Withhold or permanently discontinue capecitabine based on clinical assessment of the onset, duration, and severity of the observed adverse reactions in patients with evidence of acute early-onset or unusually severe reactions, which may indicate complete DPD deficiency. No capecitabine dose has been proven safe for patients with complete DPD deficiency. There are insufficient data to recommend a specific dose in patients with partial DPD deficiency.
Consider testing for genetic variants of DPYD prior to initiating capecitabine to reduce the risk of serious adverse reactions if the patient’s clinical status permits and based on clinical judgement [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.5 )] . Serious adverse reactions may still occur even if no DPYD variants are identified.
An FDA-authorized test for the detection of genetic variants of DPYD to identify patients at risk of serious adverse reactions due to increased systemic exposure to capecitabine is not currently available. Currently available tests used to identify DPYD variants may vary in accuracy and design (e.g., which DPYD variant(s) they identify).
5.3 Cardiotoxicity
Cardiotoxicity can occur with capecitabine. Myocardial infarction/ischemia, angina, dysrhythmias, cardiac arrest, cardiac failure, sudden death, electrocardiographic changes, and cardiomyopathy have been reported with capecitabine. These adverse reactions may be more common in patients with a prior history of coronary artery disease.
Withhold capecitabine for cardiotoxicity as appropriate [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] . The safety of resumption of capecitabine in patients with cardiotoxicity that has resolved have not been established.
5.4 Diarrhea
Diarrhea, sometimes severe, can occur with capecitabine. In 875 patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent, the median time to first occurrence of grade 2 to 4 diarrhea was 34 days (range: 1 day to 1 year). The median duration of grade 3 to 4 diarrhea was 5 days.
Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose or permanently discontinue based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
5.5 Dehydration
Dehydration can occur with capecitabine. Patients with anorexia, asthenia, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea may be at an increased risk of developing dehydration with capecitabine. Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine. Monitor hydration status and kidney function at baseline and as clinically indicated. Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
5.6 Renal Toxicity
Serious renal failure, sometimes fatal, can occur with capecitabine. Renal impairment or coadministration of capecitabine with other products known to cause renal toxicity may increase the risk of renal toxicity [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] .
Monitor renal function at baseline and as clinically indicated. Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine. Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
5.7 Serious Skin Toxicities
Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal, can occur with capecitabine [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .
Monitor for new or worsening serious skin reactions. Permanently discontinue capecitabine for severe cutaneous adverse reactions.
5.8 Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (PPES) can occur with capecitabine.
In patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent, the median time to onset of grades 1 to 3 PPES was 2.6 months (range: 11 days to 1 year).
Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose or permanently discontinue based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
5.9 Myelosuppression
Myelosuppression can occur with capecitabine.
In the 875 patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent, 3.2% had grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, 1.7% had grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, and 2.4% had grade 3 or 4 anemia.
In the 251 patients with metastatic breast cancer who received capecitabine with docetaxel, 68% had grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, 2.8% had grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, and 10% had grade 3 or 4 anemia.
Necrotizing enterocolitis (typhlitis) has been reported. Consider typhlitis in patients with fever, neutropenia and abdominal pain.
Monitor complete blood count at baseline and before each cycle. Capecitabine is not recommended if baseline neutrophil count <1.5 x 109/L or platelet count <100 x 109/L. For grade 3 to 4 myelosuppression, withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on occurrence [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
5.10 Hyperbilirubinemia
Hyperbilirubinemia can occur with capecitabine. In the 875 patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent, grade 3 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 15% of patients and grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 3.9%. Of the 566 patients who had hepatic metastases at baseline and the 309 patients without hepatic metastases at baseline, grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 23% and 12%, respectively. Of these 167 patients with grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia, 19% had postbaseline increased alkaline phosphatase and 28% had postbaseline increased transaminases at any time (not necessarily concurrent). The majority of these patients with increased transaminases or alkaline phosphatase had liver metastases at baseline. In addition, 58% and 35% of the 167 patients with grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia had pre- and postbaseline increased alkaline phosphatase or transaminases (grades 1 to 4), respectively. Only 8% (n=13) and 3% (n=5) had grade 3 or 4 increased alkaline phosphatase or transaminases.
In the 596 patients who received capecitabine for metastatic colorectal cancer, the incidence of grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia was similar to that observed for the pooled population of patients with metastatic breast and colorectal cancer. The median time to onset for grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia was 64 days and median total bilirubin increased from 8 μm/L at baseline to 13 μm/L during treatment with capecitabine. Of the 136 patients with grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia, 49 patients had grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia as their last measured value, of which 46 had liver metastases at baseline.
In the 251 patients with metastatic breast cancer who received capecitabine with docetaxel, grade 3 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 7% and grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 2%.
Withhold capecitabine and then resume at a same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on occurrence [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] . Patients with Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia may resume treatment once the event is Grade 2 or less than three times the upper limit of normal, using the percent of current dose as shown in Table 1 [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 )] .
5.11 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Based on findings from animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action, capecitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Insufficient data is available on capecitabine use in pregnant women to evaluate a drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, administration of capecitabine to pregnant animals during the period of organogenesis caused embryolethality and teratogenicity in mice and embryolethality in monkeys at 0.2 and 0.6 times the human exposure (AUC) in patients who received a dosage of 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily, respectively.
Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 6 months following the last dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 3 months following the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 , 8.3)] .
5.12 Eye Irritation, Skin Rash, and Other Adverse Reactions from Exposure to Crushed Tablets
In instances of exposure to crushed capecitabine tablets, the following adverse reactions have been reported: eye irritation and swelling, skin rash, diarrhea, paresthesia, headache, gastric irritation, vomiting and nausea. Advise patients not to cut or crush tablets.
If capecitabine tablets must be cut or crushed, this should be done by a professional trained in safe handling of cytotoxic drugs using appropriate equipment and safety procedures [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )] . The safety and effectiveness have not been established for the administration of crushed capecitabine tablets.
6 Adverse Reactions
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
• Cardiotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]• Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]• Dehydration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]• Renal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]• Serious Skin Toxicities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]• Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]• Myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]• Hyperbilirubinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)]
• Most common adverse reactions in patients who received capecitabine as a single agent for the adjuvant treatment for colon cancer (≥30%) were palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, diarrhea, and nausea. (6.1 )• Most common adverse reactions (≥30%) in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent were anemia, diarrhea, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, hyperbilirubinemia, nausea, fatigue, and abdominal pain. (6.1 )• Most common adverse reactions (≥30%) in patients with metastatic breast cancer who received capecitabine with docetaxel were diarrhea, stomatitis, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, nausea, alopecia, vomiting, edema, and abdominal pain. (6.1 )• Most common adverse reactions (≥30%) in patients with metastatic breast cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent were lymphopenia, anemia, diarrhea, hand-and-foot syndrome, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and dermatitis. (6.1 )
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. at 1-800-962-8364 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 orhttp://www.fda.gov/medwatch
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer:
Single Agent:
The safety of capecitabine as a single agent was evaluated in patients with Stage III colon cancer in X-ACT [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Patients received capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle (N=995) or leucovorin 20 mg/m2 intravenously followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m2 as an intravenous bolus on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle (N=974). Among patients who received capecitabine, the median duration of treatment was 5.4 months.
Deaths due to all causes occurred in 0.8% of patients who received capecitabine on study or within 28 days of receiving study drug. Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 11% of patients who received capecitabine.
Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, diarrhea, and nausea.
Tables 2 and 3 summarize the adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities in X-ACT.
Table 2:Adverse Reactions (≥10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine for Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer in X-ACT
Adverse Reaction
Capecitabine (N=995)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=974)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3 or 4 (%)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3 or 4 (%)
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome
60
17
9
<1
Gastrointestinal
Diarrhea
47
12
65
14
Nausea
34
2
47
2
Stomatitis
22
2
60
14
Vomiting
15
2
21
2
Abdominal pain
14
3
16
2
General
Fatigue
16
<1
16
1
Asthenia
10
<1
10
1
Lethargy
10
<1
9
<1
Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients are presented below:
Eye: conjunctivitis
Gastrointestinal: constipation, upper abdominal pain, dyspepsia
General: pyrexia
Metabolism and Nutrition: anorexia
Nervous System: dizziness, dysgeusia, headache
Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue: rash, alopecia, erythema
Table 3: Grade 3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities (>1%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine as a Single Agent for Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer in X-ACT
Laboratory Abnormality
Capecitabine (N=995)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=974)
Grade 3 or 4 (%)
Grade 3 or 4 (%)
Bilirubin increased
20
6
Lymphocytes decreased
13
13
Neutrophils/granulocytes decreased
2.4
26
Calcium decreased
2.3
2.2
Neutrophils decreased
2.2
26
ALT increased
1.6
0.6
Calcium increased
1.1
0.7
Hemoglobin decreased
1
1.2
Platelets decreased
1
0.7
In Combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens:
The safety of capecitabine for the perioperative treatment of adults with Stage III colon cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. The safety of capecitabine for the adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was similar to those in patients treated with capecitabine as a single agent, with the exception of an increased incidence of neurosensory toxicity.
Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer:
The safety of capecitabine for the perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. The safety of capecitabine for the perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy was similar to those in patients treated with capecitabine as a single agent, with the exception of an increased incidence of diarrhea.
Metastatic Colorectal Cancer:
Single Agent:
The safety of capecitabine as a single agent was evaluated in a pooled metastatic colorectal cancer population (Study SO14695 and Study SO14796) [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Patients received capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice a day for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle (N=596) or leucovorin 20 mg/m2 intravenously followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m2 as an intravenous bolus on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle (N=593). Among the patients who received capecitabine, the median duration of treatment was 4.6 months.
Deaths due to all causes occurred in 8% of patients who received capecitabine on study or within 28 days of receiving study drug. Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction or intercurrent illness occurred in 13% of patients who received capecitabine.
Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were anemia, diarrhea, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, hyperbilirubinemia, nausea, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
Table 4 shows the adverse reactions occurring in this pooled colorectal cancer population.
Table 4: Adverse Reactions (>10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine in Pooled Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Population (Study SO14695 and Study SO14796)
Adverse Reaction
Capecitabine (N=596)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin(N=593)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3 (%)
Grade 4(%)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3(%)
Grade 4(%)
Blood and Lymphatic System
Anemia
80
2
<1
79
1
<1
Neutropenia
13
1
2
46
8
13
Gastrointestinal
Diarrhea
55
13
2
61
10
2
Nausea
43
4
–
51
3
<1
Abdominal pain
35
9
<1
31
5
–
Vomiting
27
4
<1
30
4
<1
Stomatitis
25
2
<1
62
14
1
Constipation
14
1
<1
17
1
–
Gastrointestinal motility disorder
10
<1
–
7
<1
–
Oral discomfort
10
–
–
10
–
–
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome
54
17
NA
6
1
NA
Dermatitis
27
1
–
26
1
–
Hepatobiliary
Hyperbilirubinemia
48
18
5
17
3
3
General
Fatigue*
42
4
–
46
4
–
Pyrexia
18
1
–
21
2
–
Edema
15
1
–
9
1
–
Pain
12
1
–
10
1
–
Metabolism and Nutrition
Decreased appetite
26
3
<1
31
2
<1
Respiratory Thoracic and Mediastinal
Dyspnea
14
1
–
10
<1
1
Eye
Eye irritation
13
–
–
10
<1
–
Nervous System
Peripheral sensory neuropathy
10
–
–
4
–
–
Headache
10
1
–
7
–
–
Musculoskeletal
Back pain
10
2
–
9
<1
–
– Not observed * Includes weakness NA = Not Applicable
Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients are presented below:
Eye: abnormal vision
Gastrointestinal: upper gastrointestinal tract inflammatory disorders, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, ileus
General: chest pain
Infections: viral
Metabolism and Nutrition: dehydration
Musculoskeletal: arthralgia
Nervous System: dizziness (excluding vertigo), insomnia, taste disturbance
Psychiatric: mood alteration, depression
Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal: cough, pharyngeal disorder
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue: skin discoloration, alopecia
Vascular: venous thrombosis
In Combination with Oxaliplatin:
The safety of capecitabine for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. The safety of capecitabine for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was similar to those in patients treated with capecitabine as a single agent, with the exception of an increased incidence of peripheral neuropathy.
Metastatic Breast Cancer:
In Combination with Docetaxel:
The safety of capecitabine in combination with docetaxel was evaluated in patients with metastatic breast cancer in Study SO14999 [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Patients received capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle with docetaxel 75 mg/m2 as 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of each 21-day cycle for at least 6 weeks or docetaxel 100 mg/m2 as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of each 21-day cycle for at least 6 weeks. Among patients who received capecitabine, the mean duration of treatment was 4.2 months.
Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 26% of patients who received capecitabine. Dosage interruptions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 79% of patients who received capecitabine and dosage reductions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 65%.
Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were diarrhea, stomatitis, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, nausea, alopecia, vomiting, edema, and abdominal pain.
Table 5 summarizes the adverse reactions in Study SO14999.
Table 5: Adverse Reactions (≥10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine with Docetaxel for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14999
Adverse Reaction
Capecitabine with Docetaxel(N=251)
Docetaxel(N=255)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3 (%)
Grade 4(%)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3(%)
Grade 4(%)
Gastrointestinal
Diarrhea
67
14
<1
48
5
<1
Stomatitis
67
17
<1
43
5
–
Nausea
45
7
–
36
2
–
Vomiting
35
4
1
24
2
–
Abdominal pain
30
3
<1
24
2
–
Constipation
20
2
–
18
–
–
Dyspepsia
14
–
–
8
1
–
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome
63
24
NA
8
1
NA
Alopecia
41
6
–
42
7
–
Nail disorder
14
2
–
15
–
–
Cardiac
Edema
33
<2
–
34
<3
1
General
Pyrexia
28
2
–
34
2
–
Asthenia
26
4
<1
25
6
–
Fatigue
22
4
–
27
6
–
Weakness
16
2
–
11
2
–
Pain in Limb
13
<1
–
13
2
–
Blood and Lymphatic System
Neutropenic fever
16
3
13
21
5
16
Nervous System
Taste disturbance
16
<1
–
14
<1
–
Headache
15
3
–
15
2
–
Paresthesia
12
<1
–
16
1
–
Dizziness
12
–
–
8
<1
–
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue
Arthralgia
15
2
–
24
3
–
Myalgia
15
2
–
25
2
–
Back Pain
12
<1
–
11
3
–
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal
Dyspnea
14
2
<1
16
2
–
Cough
13
1
–
22
<1
–
Sore Throat
12
2
–
11
<1
–
Metabolism and Nutrition
Anorexia
13
<1
–
11
<1
–
Appetite decreased
10
–
–
5
–
–
Dehydration
10
2
–
7
<1
<1
Eye
Lacrimation increased
12
–
–
7
<1
–
– Not observed
NA = Not Applicable
Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients are presented below:
Blood and Lymphatic System: agranulocytosis, prothrombin decreased
Cardiac: supraventricular tachycardia
Eye: conjunctivitis, eye irritation
Gastrointestinal: ileus, necrotizing enterocolitis, esophageal ulcer, hemorrhagic diarrhea, dry mouth
General: chest pain (non-cardiac), lethargy, pain, influenza-like illness
Hepatobiliary: jaundice, abnormal liver function tests, hepatic failure, hepatic coma, hepatotoxicity
Immune System: hypersensitivity
Infection: hypoesthesia, neutropenic sepsis, sepsis, bronchopneumonia, oral candidiasis, urinary tract infection
Metabolism and Nutrition: weight decreased
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue: bone pain
Nervous System: insomnia, peripheral neuropathy, ataxia, syncope, taste loss, polyneuropathy, migraine
Psychiatric: depression
Renal and Urinary: renal failure
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal: upper respiratory tract infection, pleural effusion, epistaxis, rhinorrhea
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue: pruritis, rash erythematous, dermatitis, nail discoloration, onycholysis
Vascular: lymphedema, hypotension, venous phlebitis and thrombophlebitis, postural hypotension, flushing
Table 6 summarizes the laboratory abnormalities in this trial.
Table 6: Laboratory Abnormalities (≥20%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine with Docetaxel for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14999
Laboratory Abnormality
Capecitabine with Docetaxel(N=251)
Docetaxel(N=255)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3 (%)
Grade 4(%)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3(%)
Grade 4(%)
Hematologic
Lymphocytopenia
99
48
41
98
44
40
Leukopenia
91
37
24
88
42
33
Neutropenia
86
20
49
87
10
66
Anemia
80
7
3
83
5
<1
Thrombocytopenia
41
2
1
23
1
2
Hepatobiliary
Hyperbilirubinemia
20
7
2
6
2
2
Single Agent:
The safety of capecitabine as a single agent was evaluated in patients with metastatic breast cancer in Study SO14697 [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Patients received capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle. The mean duration of treatment was 3.7 months.
Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction or intercurrent illness occurred in 8% of patients.
Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were lymphopenia, anemia, diarrhea, hand-and-foot syndrome, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and dermatitis.
Table 7 summarizes the adverse reactions in Study SO14697.
Table 7: Adverse Reactions (>10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14697
Adverse Reaction
Capecitabine (n=162)
All Grades (%)
Grade 3 (%)
Grade 4 (%)
Blood and Lymphatic System
Lymphopenia
94
44
15
Anemia
72
3
1
Neutropenia
26
2
2
Thrombocytopenia
24
3
1
Gastrointestinal
Diarrhea
57
12
3
Nausea
53
4
–
Vomiting
37
4
–
Stomatitis
24
7
–
Abdominal pain
20
4
–
Constipation
15
1
–
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
Hand-and-foot syndrome
57
11
NA
Dermatitis
37
1
–
General
Fatigue
41
8
–
Pyrexia
12
1
–
Metabolism and Nutrition
Anorexia
23
3
–
Hepatobiliary
Hyperbilirubinemia
22
9
2
Nervous System
Paresthesia
21
1
–
Eye
Eye irritation
15
–
–
– = Not observed NA = Not Applicable
Pooled Safety Population:
Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients who received capecitabine as a single agent are presented below.
Blood & Lymphatic System: leukopenia, coagulation disorder, bone marrow depression, pancytopenia
Cardiac: tachycardia, bradycardia, atrial fibrillation, myocarditis, edema
Ear: vertigo
Eye: conjunctivitis
Gastrointestinal: abdominal distension, dysphagia, proctalgia, gastric ulcer, ileus, gastroenteritis, dyspepsia
General: chest pain, influenza-like illness, hot flushes, pain, thirst, fibrosis, hemorrhage, edema, pain in limb
Hepatobiliary: hepatic fibrosis, hepatitis, cholestatic hepatitis, abnormal liver function tests
Immune System: drug hypersensitivity
Infections: bronchitis, pneumonia, keratoconjunctivitis, sepsis, fungal infections
Metabolism and Nutrition: cachexia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, dehydration
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue: myalgia, arthritis, muscle weakness
Nervous System: insomnia, ataxia, tremor, dysphasia, encephalopathy, dysarthria, impaired balance, headache, dizziness
Psychiatric: depression, confusion
Renal and Urinary: renal impairment
Respiratory, Mediastinal and Thoracic: cough, epistaxis, respiratory distress, dyspnea
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue: nail disorder, sweating increased, photosensitivity reaction, skin ulceration, pruritus, radiation recall syndrome
Vascular: hypotension, hypertension, lymphedema, pulmonary embolism
Unresectable or Metastatic Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer:
The safety of capecitabine for the treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.3)]. The safety of capecitabine for the treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was consistent with the known safety profile of capecitabine.
The safety of capecitabine for the treatment of patients with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma who have not received prior treatment for metastatic disease as a component of a combination regimen was derived from the published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.3)]. The safety of capecitabine for the treatment of patients with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma was consistent with the known safety profile of capecitabine.
Pancreatic Cancer:
The safety of capecitabine for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from the published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.4)]. The safety of capecitabine for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was consistent with the known safety profile of capecitabine.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of capecitabine. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Eye: lacrimal duct stenosis, corneal disorders including keratitis
Hepatobiliary: hepatic failure
Immune System Disorders: angioedema
Nervous System: toxic leukoencephalopathy
Renal & Urinary: acute renal failure secondary to dehydration including fatal outcome
Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue: cutaneous lupus erythematosus, severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), persistent or severe PPES can eventually lead to loss of fingerprints
7 Drug Interactions
• Allopurinol: Avoid concomitant use of allopurinol with capecitabine. (7.1 )• Leucovorin: Closely monitor for toxicities when capecitabine is coadministered with leucovorin. (7.1 )• CYP2C9 substrates: Closely monitor for adverse reactions when CYP2C9 substrates are coadministered with capecitabine. (7.2 )• Vitamin K antagonists: Monitor INR more frequently and dose adjust oral vitamin K antagonist as appropriate.• Phenytoin: Closely monitor phenytoin levels in patients taking capecitabine concomitantly with phenytoin and adjust the phenytoin dose as appropriate. (7.2 )• Nephrotoxic drugs: Closely monitor for signs of renal toxicity when capecitabine is used concomitantly with nephrotoxic drugs. (7.3 )7.1 Effect of Other Drugs on Capecitabine
Allopurinol:
Concomitant use with allopurinol may decrease concentration of capecitabine’s active metabolites [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may decrease efficacy. Avoid concomitant use of allopurinol with capecitabine.
Leucovorin:
The concentration of fluorouracil is increased and its toxicity may be enhanced by leucovorin, folic acid, or folate analog products. Deaths from severe enterocolitis, diarrhea, and dehydration have been reported in elderly patients receiving weekly leucovorin and fluorouracil.
Instruct patients not to take products containing folic acid or folate analog products unless directed to do so by their healthcare provider.
7.2 Effect of Capecitabine on Other Drugs
CYP2C9 Substrates:
Capecitabine increased exposure of CYP2C9 substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may increase the risk of adverse reactions related to these substrates. Closely monitor for adverse reactions of CYP2C9 substrates where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious adverse reactions when used concomitantly with capecitabine (e.g., anticoagulants, antidiabetic drugs).
Vitamin K Antagonists:
Capecitabine increases exposure of vitamin K antagonist [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may alter coagulation parameters and/or bleeding and could result in death [see Warning and Precautions (5.1)]. These events may occur within days of treatment initiation and up to 1 month after discontinuation of capecitabine.
Monitor INR more frequently and refer to the prescribing information of oral vitamin K antagonist for dosage adjustment, as appropriate, when capecitabine is used concomitantly with vitamin K antagonist.
Phenytoin:
Capecitabine may increases exposure of phenytoin, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions related to phenytoin. Closely monitor phenytoin levels and refer to the prescribing information of phenytoin for dosage adjustment, as appropriate, when capecitabine is used concomitantly with phenytoin.
7.3 Nephrotoxic Drugs
Due of the additive pharmacologic effect, concomitant use of capecitabine with other drugs known to cause renal toxicity may increase the risk of renal toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]. Closely monitor for signs of renal toxicity when capecitabine is used concomitantly with nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., platinum salts, irinotecan, methotrexate, intravenous bisphosphonates).
8 Use In Specific Populations
• Lactation: Advise not to breastfeed. (8.2 )• Hepatic Impairment: Monitor patients with hepatic impairment more frequently for adverse reactions. (8.7 )8.1 Pregnancy
Risk Summary:
Based on findings in animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)], capecitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Available human data with capecitabine use in pregnant women is not sufficient to inform the drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, administration of capecitabine to pregnant animals during the period of organogenesis caused embryolethality and teratogenicity in mice and embryolethality in monkeys at 0.2 and 0.6 times the exposure (AUC) in patients receiving the recommended dose of 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily, respectively (see Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Data:
Animal Data: Oral administration of capecitabine to pregnant mice during the period of organogenesis at a dose of 198 mg/kg/day caused malformations and embryo lethality. In separate pharmacokinetic studies, this dose in mice produced 5’-DFUR AUC values that were approximately 0.2 times the AUC values in patients administered the recommended daily dose. Malformations in mice included cleft palate, anophthalmia, microphthalmia, oligodactyly, polydactyly, syndactyly, kinky tail and dilation of cerebral ventricles. Oral administration of capecitabine to pregnant monkeys during the period of organogenesis at a dose of 90 mg/kg/day, caused fetal lethality. This dose produced 5’-DFUR AUC values that were approximately 0.6 times the AUC values in patients administered the recommended daily dose.
8.2 Lactation
Risk Summary:
There is no information regarding the presence of capecitabine or its metabolites in human milk, or on its effects on milk production or the breastfed child. Capecitabine metabolites were present in the milk of lactating mice (see Data). Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with capecitabine and for 1 week after the last dose.
Data:
Lactating mice given a single oral dose of capecitabine excreted significant amounts of capecitabine metabolites into the milk.
8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential
Capecitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Pregnancy Testing:
Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating capecitabine.
Contraception:
Females: Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 6 months after the last dose.
Males: Based on genotoxicity findings, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 3 months after the last dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
Infertility:
Based on animal studies, capecitabine may impair fertility in females and males of reproductive potential [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
8.4 Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of capecitabine in pediatric patients have not been established.
Safety and effectiveness were assessed, but not established in two single arm studies in 56 pediatric patients aged 3 months to <17 years with newly diagnosed gliomas. In both trials, pediatric patients received an investigational pediatric formulation of capecitabine concomitantly with and following completion of radiation therapy (total dose of 5580 cGy in 180 cGy fractions). The relative bioavailability of the investigational formulation to capecitabine was similar.
The adverse reaction profile was consistent with that of adults, with the exception of laboratory abnormalities which occurred more commonly in pediatric patients. The most frequently reported laboratory abnormalities (per-patient incidence ≥ 40%) were increased ALT (75%), lymphocytopenia (73%), hypokalemia (68%), thrombocytopenia (57%), hypoalbuminemia (55%), neutropenia (50%), low hematocrit (50%), hypocalcemia (48%), hypophosphatemia (45%) and hyponatremia (45%).
8.5 Geriatric Use
Of 7938 patients with colorectal cancer who were treated with capecitabine, 33% were older than 65 years. Of the 4536 patients with metastatic breast cancer who were treated with capecitabine, 18% were older than 65 years.
Of 1951 patients with gastric, esophageal, or gastrointestinal junction cancer who were treated with capecitabine, 26% were older than 65 years.
Of 364 patients with pancreatic cancer who received adjuvant treatment with capecitabine, 47% were 65 years or older.
No overall differences in efficacy were observed comparing older versus younger patients with colorectal cancer, gastric, esophageal or gastrointestinal junction cancer, or pancreatic cancer using the approved recommended dosages and treatment regimens.
Older patients experience increased gastrointestinal toxicity due to capecitabine compared to younger patients. Deaths from severe enterocolitis, diarrhea, and dehydration have been reported in elderly patients receiving weekly leucovorin and fluorouracil [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].
8.6 Renal Impairment
The exposure of capecitabine and its inactive metabolites (5-DFUR and FBAL) increases in patients with CLcr <50 mL/min as determined by Cockcroft-Gault [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Reduce the dosage for patients with CLcr of 30 to 50 mL/min [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)]. There is limited experience with capecitabine in patients with CLcr <30 mL/min, and a dosage has not been established in those patients. If no treatment alternative exists, capecitabine could be administered to such patients on an individual basis applying a reduced starting dose, close monitoring of a patient's clinical and biochemical data and dose modifications guided by observed adverse reactions.
8.7 Hepatic Impairment
The exposure of capecitabine increases in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. The effect of severe hepatic impairment on the safety and pharmacokinetics of capecitabine is unknown [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Monitor patients with hepatic impairment more frequently for adverse reactions.
10 Overdosage
Administer uridine triacetate within 96 hours for management of capecitabine overdose.
Although no clinical experience using dialysis as a treatment for capecitabine overdose has been reported, dialysis may be of benefit in reducing circulating concentrations of 5’-DFUR, a low–molecular-weight metabolite of the parent compound.
11 Description
Capecitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. The chemical name is carbamic acid, [1-(5-deoxy-β-D-ribofuranosyl)-5-fluoro-1,2-dihydro-2-oxo-4-pyrimidinyl]-pentyl ester and has a molecular formula of C15H22FN3O6 and a molecular weight of 359.35. Capecitabine has the following structural formula:
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Capecitabine, USP is a white to off-white powder that is sparingly soluble in water.
Capecitabine Tablets, USP are supplied as pink to speckled pink, film-coated, modified oval tablets for oral administration. Each tablet contains either 150 mg or 500 mg capecitabine, USP. The inactive ingredients in Capecitabine Tablets, USP include: croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate and silicified microcrystalline cellulose. In addition to the ingredients uled above, each tablet contains Opadry II (Pink). Opadry II (Pink) contains FD&C Blue #2 Indigo Carmine Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red #40 Allura Red AC Aluminum Lake, FD&C Yellow #6 Sunset Yellow FCF Aluminum Lake, hypromellose, macrogol, polydextrose, titanium dioxide, and triacetin.
12 Clinical Pharmacology
12.1 Mechanism of Action
Capecitabine is metabolized to fluorouracil in vivo. Both normal and tumor cells metabolize fluorouracil to 5-fluoro-2’-deoxyuridine monophosphate (FdUMP) and 5-fluorouridine triphosphate (FUTP). These metabolites cause cell injury by two different mechanisms. First, FdUMP and the folate cofactor, N5-10-methylenetetrahydrofolate, bind to thymidylate synthase (TS) to form a covalently bound ternary complex. This binding inhibits the formation of thymidylate from 2’-deoxyuridylate. Thymidylate is the necessary precursor of thymidine triphosphate, which is essential for the synthesis of DNA, so that a deficiency of this compound can inhibit cell division. Second, nuclear transcriptional enzymes can mistakenly incorporate FUTP in place of uridine triphosphate (UTP) during the synthesis of RNA. This metabolic error can interfere with RNA processing and protein synthesis.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
Population-based exposure-effect analyses demonstrated a positive association between AUC of fluorouracil and grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
The AUC of capecitabine and its metabolite 5’-DFCR increases proportionally over a dosage range of 500 mg/m2/day to 3,500 mg/m2/day (0.2 to 1.4 times the approved recommended dosage). The AUC of capecitabine’s metabolites 5’-DFUR and fluorouracil increased greater than proportional to the dose. The interpatient variability in the Cmax and AUC of fluorouracil was greater than 85%.
Absorption:
Following oral administration of capecitabine 1,255 mg/m2 orally twice daily (the recommended dosage when used as single agent), the median Tmax of capecitabine and its metabolite fluorouracil was approximately 1.5 hours and 2 hours, respectively.
Effect of Food:
Following administration of a meal (breakfast medium-rich in fat and carbohydrates), the mean Cmax and AUC0-INF of capecitabine was decreased by 60% and 34%, respectively. The mean Cmax and AUC0-INF of fluorouracil were also decreased by 37% and 12%, respectively. The Tmax of both capecitabine and fluorouracil was delayed by 1.5 hours.
Distribution:
Plasma protein binding of capecitabine and its metabolites is less than 60% and is not concentration-dependent. Capecitabine was primarily bound to human albumin (approximately 35%).
Following oral administration of capecitabine 7 days before surgery in patients with colorectal cancer, the median ratio of concentration for the active metabolite fluorouracil in colorectal tumors to adjacent tissues was 2.9 (range: 0.9 to 8.0).
Elimination:
The elimination half-lives of capecitabine and fluorouracil were approximately 0.75 hour.
Metabolism:
Capecitabine undergoes metabolism by carboxylesterase and is hydrolyzed to 5’-DFCR. 5’-DFCR is subsequently converted to 5’-DFUR by cytidine deaminase. 5’-DFUR is then hydrolized by thymidine phosphorylase (dThdPase) enzymes to the active metabolite fluorouracil.
Fluorouracil is subsequently metabolized by dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase to 5-fluoro-5, 6- dihydro-fluorouracil (FUH2). The pyrimidine ring of FUH2 is cleaved by dihydropyrimidinase to yield 5-fluoro-ureido-propionic acid (FUPA). Finally, FUPA is cleaved by β-ureido-propionase to α-fluoro-β-alanine (FBAL).
Excretion:
Following administration of radiolabeled capecitabine, 96% of the administered capecitabine dose was recovered in urine (3% unchanged and 57% as metabolite FBAL) and 2.6% in feces.
Specific Populations:
Following therapeutic doses of capecitabine, no clinically meaningful difference in the pharmacokinetics of 5’-DFUR, fluorouracil or FBAL were observed based on sex (202 females and 303 males) and race (455 White, 22 Black, and 28 Other). No clinically meaningful difference on the pharmacokinetics of 5’-DFUR and fluorouracil were observed based on age (range: 27 to 86 years); however, the AUC of FBAL increased by 15% following a 20% increase in age.
Racial or Ethnic Groups:
Following administration of capecitabine 825 mg/m2 orally twice daily for 14 days (0.66 times the recommended dosage), the Cmax and AUC of capecitabine decreased by 36% and 24%, respectively in Japanese patients (n=18) compared to White patients (n=22). The Cmax and AUC of FBAL decreased by approximately 25% and 34%, respectively in Japanese patients compared to White patients; however, the clinical significance of these differences is unknown. No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of 5’-DFCR, 5’-DFUR or fluorouracil were observed.
Patients with Renal Impairment:
Table 8: Effect of Renal Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics of Capecitabine, 5’-DFUR, and FBAL
Renal Impairment 1
Changes in AUC 2
Capecitabine
5’-DFUR3
FBAL3
5-FU
CLcr 30 to 50 mL/min
Increased by 25%
Increased by 42%
Increased by 85%
No relevant change
CLcr <30 mL/min
Increased by 25%
Increased by 71%
Increased by 258%
Increased by 24%
1. Compared to patients with CLcr >80 mL/min 2. Following administration of capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily; day 1 observations 3. Capecitabine metabolite CLcr= Creatine Clearance, AUC= Area under the plasma concentration-time curve
Patients with Hepatic Impairment:
AUC0-INF and Cmax of capecitabine’s active principle, fluorouracil, were not affected in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function. The AUC0-INF and Cmax of capecitabine increased by 60%. The effect of severe hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of capecitabine and its metabolites are unknown.
Drug Interaction Studies:
Clinical Studies:
Effect of Capecitabine on Warfarin: In four patients with cancer, chronic administration of capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily with a single dose of warfarin 20 mg increased the mean AUC of S-warfarin by 57% and decreased its clearance by 37%. Baseline corrected AUC of INR in these 4 patients increased by 2.8-fold, and the maximum observed mean INR value was increased by 91%.
Effect of Capecitabine on Celecoxib: Concomitant administration of multiple doses of capecitabine (capecitabine 1,000 mg/m2 twice daily for 14 days) increased celecoxib (sensitive CYP2C9 substrate) AUC by 28%, Cmax by 24% and Ctrough by 30%.
Effect of Antacids on Capecitabine: When an aluminum hydroxide- and magnesium hydroxide- containing antacid was administered immediately after a capecitabine dose of 1,250 mg/m2 in patients with cancer, AUC and Cmax increased by 16% and 35%, respectively, for capecitabine and by 18% and 22%, respectively, for 5’-DFCR. No effect was observed on the other three major metabolites (5’-DFUR, fluorouracil, FBAL) of capecitabine.
Effect of Allopurinol on Capecitabine: Concomitant use with allopurinol may decrease conversion of capecitabine to the active metabolites, FdUMP and FUTP.
Effect of Capecitabine on Docetaxel and Effect of Docetaxel on Capecitabine: Capecitabine had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel (Cmax and AUC) and docetaxel has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of capecitabine and the fluorouracil precursor 5’-DFUR.
In Vitro Studies:
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) Enzymes: Capecitabine and its metabolites (5’-DFUR, 5’-DFCR, fluorouracil, and FBAL) did not inhibit CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP3A4, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, or CYP2E1 in vitro.
12.5 Pharmacogenomics
The DPYD gene encodes the enzyme DPD, which is responsible for the catabolism of >80% of fluorouracil. Approximately 3-5% of White populations have partial DPD deficiency and 0.2% of White populations have complete DPD deficiency, which may be due to certain genetic no function or decreased function variants in DPYD resulting in partial to complete or near complete absence of enzyme activity. DPD deficiency is estimated to be more prevalent in Black or African American populations compared to White populations. Insufficient information is available to estimate the prevalence of DPD deficiency in other populations.
Patients who are homozygous or compound heterozygous for no function DPYD variants (i.e., carry two no function DPYD variants) or are compound heterozygous for a no function DPYD variant plus a decreased function DPYD variant have complete DPD deficiency and are at increased risk for acute early-onset of toxicity and serious life-threatening, or fatal adverse reactions due to increased systemic exposure to capecitabine. Partial DPD deficiency can result from the presence of either two decreased function DPYD variants or one normal function plus either a decreased function or a no function DPYD variant. Patients with partial DPD deficiency may also be at an increased risk for toxicity from capecitabine.
Four DPYD variants have been associated with impaired DPD activity in White populations, especially when present as homozygous or compound heterozygous variants: c.1905+1G>A (DPYD *2A), c.1679T>G (DPYD *13), c.2846A>T, and c.1129-5923C>G (Haplotype B3). DPYD*2A and DPYD*13 are no function variants, and c.2846A>T and c.1129-5923C>G are decreased function variants. The decreased function DPYD variant c.557A>G is observed in individuals of African ancestry. This is not a complete uling of all DPYD variants that may result in DPD deficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
13 Nonclinical Toxicology
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Adequate studies investigating the carcinogenic potential of capecitabine have not been conducted. Capecitabine was not mutagenic in vitro to bacteria (Ames test) or mammalian cells (Chinese hamster V79/HPRT gene mutation assay). Capecitabine was clastogenic in vitro to human peripheral blood lymphocytes but not clastogenic in vivo to mouse bone marrow (micronucleus test). Fluorouracil causes mutations in bacteria and yeast. Fluorouracil also causes chromosomal abnormalities in the mouse micronucleus test in vivo.
In studies of fertility and general reproductive performance in female mice, oral capecitabine doses of 760 mg/kg/day (about 2,300 mg/m2/day) disturbed estrus and consequently caused a decrease in fertility. In mice that became pregnant, no fetuses survived this dose. The disturbance in estrus was reversible. In males, this dose caused degenerative changes in the testes, including decreases in the number of spermatocytes and spermatids. In separate pharmacokinetic studies, this dose in mice produced 5’-DFUR AUC values about 0.7 times the corresponding values in patients administered the recommended daily dose.
14 Clinical Studies
14.1 Colorectal Cancer
Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer:
Single Agent:
The efficacy of capecitabine was evaluated in X-ACT (NCT00009737), a multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Eligible patients were between 18 and 75 years of age with histologically-confirmed Dukes’ Stage C colon cancer with at least one positive lymph node and to have undergone (within 8 weeks prior to randomization) complete resection of the primary tumor without macroscopic or microscopic evidence of remaining tumor. Patients were also required to have no prior cytotoxic chemotherapy or immunotherapy (except steroids) and have an ECOG performance status of 0 or 1 (KPS >70%), ANC >1.5x109/L, platelets >100x109/L, serum creatinine <1.5 ULN, total bilirubin <1.5 ULN, AST/ALT <2.5 ULN and CEA within normal limits at time of randomization.
Patients (n=1987) were randomized to capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle for a total of 8 cycles or fluorouracil 425 mg/m2 and leucovorin 20 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle for a total of 6 cycles. The capecitabine dose was reduced in patients with baseline CLcr of 30 to 50 mL/min. The major efficacy outcome measure was disease-free survival (DFS).
The baseline demographics are shown in Table 9. The baseline characteristics were well-balanced between arms.
Table 9: Baseline Demographics in X-ACT
Capecitabine (N=1004)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=983)
Age (median, years)
62
63
Range
(25-80)
(22-82)
Sex
Male, %
54
54
Female, %
46
46
ECOG Performance Status
0, %
85
85
1, %
15
15
Staging – Primary Tumor
PT1, %
1
0.6
PT2, %
9
9
PT3, %
76
76
PT4, %
14
0
Other, %
0.1
14
Staging – Lymph Node
pN1, %
69
71
pN2, %
30
29
Other, %
0.4
0.1
Efficacy results are summarized in Table 10 and Figures 1 and 2. The median follow-up at the time of the analysis was 6.9 years. Because the upper 2-sided 95% confidence limit of hazard ratio for DFS was less than 1.20, capecitabine was non-inferior to fluorouracil + leucovorin. The choice of the non-inferiority margin of 1.20 corresponds to the retention of approximately 75% of the fluorouracil + leucovorin effect on DFS. The hazard ratio for capecitabine compared to fluorouracil + leucovorin with respect to overall survival was 0.86 (95% CI 0.74, 1.01). The 5-year overall survival rates were 71% for capecitabine and 68% for fluorouracil + leucovorin.
Table 10: Efficacy Results in X-ACT1 (All Randomized Population)
Efficacy Parameters
Capecitabine (N=1004)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=983)
5-year Disease-free Survival Rate2
59%
55%
Hazard Ratio
0.88
(95% CI)
(0.77, 1.01)
p-value3
p = 0.068
1. Approximately 93.4% had 5-year DFS information
2. Based on Kaplan-Meier estimates
3. Wald chi-square test
Figure 1 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Disease-Free Survival in X-ACT (All Randomized Population)
![]()
Figure 2 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Overall Survival in X-ACT (All Randomized Population)
In Combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens:
The efficacy of capecitabine in combination with oxaliplatin for the adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from studies in the published literature, including NO16968 [NCT00069121], a multicenter, open-label, randomized trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was disease free survival.
Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer:
The efficacy of capecitabine for the perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy was derived from studies in the published literature, including Rektum-III [NCT01500993], a randomized, open-label, multicenter, non-inferiority trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival.
Metastatic Colorectal Cancer:
The efficacy of capecitabine as a single agent was evaluated in two open-label, multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trials (Study SO14695 and Study SO14796). Eligible patients received first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. Patients were randomized to capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily for first 14 days of a 21-day cycle or leucovorin 20 mg/m2 intravenously followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m2 as an intravenous bolus on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle.
The efficacy outcome measures were overall survival, time to progression and response rate (complete plus partial responses). Responses were defined by the World Health Organization criteria and submitted to a blinded independent review committee (IRC). Differences in assessments between the investigator and IRC were reconciled by the sponsor, blinded to treatment arm, according to a specified algorithm. Survival was assessed based on a non-inferiority analysis.
The baseline demographics are shown in Table 11.
Table 11: Baseline Demographics for Study SO14695 and Study SO14796
Study SO14695
Study SO14796
Capecitabine (N=302)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=303)
Capecitabine (N=301)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=301)
Age (median, years)
64
63
64
64
Range
(23-86)
(24-87)
(29-84)
(36-86)
Sex
Male, %
60
65
57
57
Female, %
40
35
43
43
Karnofsky PS (median)
90
90
90
90
Range
(70-100)
(70-100)
(70-100)
(70-100)
Colon, %
74
77
66
65
Rectum, %
26
23
34
35
Prior radiation therapy, %
17
21
14
14
Prior adjuvant fluorouracil, %
28
36
19
14
Efficacy results for Study SO14695 and Study SO14796 are shown in Table 12 and Table 13.
Table 12: Efficacy Results for First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (Study SO14695)
Capecitabine (N=302)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=303)
Overall Response Rate
% (95% CI)
21 (16, 26)
11 (8, 15)
p-value
0.0014
Time to Progression
Median, months (95% CI)
4.2 (3.9, 4.5)
4.3 (3.4, 5.0)
Hazard Ratio
0.99
95% CI
(0.84, 1.17)
Overall Survival
Median, months (95% CI)
12.5 (10.5, 14.3)
13.4 (12.0, 14.7)
Hazard Ratio
1.00
95% CI
(0.84, 1.18)
Table 13: Efficacy Results for First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (Study SO14796)
Capecitabine (N=301)
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=301)
Overall Response Rate
% (95% CI)
21 (16, 26)
14 (10, 18)
p-value
0.027
Time to Progression
Median, months (95% CI)
4.5 (4.2, 5.5)
4.3 (3.4, 5.1)
Hazard Ratio
0.97
95% CI
(0.82, 1.14)
Overall Survival
Median, months (95% CI)
13.3 (12.1, 14.8)
12.1 (11.1,14.1)
Hazard Ratio
0.92
95% CI
(0.78, 1.09)
Efficacy results of the pooled population from Study SO14695 and Study SO14796 are shown in Figure 3. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the percent of the survival effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin that was retained by capecitabine. The estimate of the survival effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin was derived from a meta-analysis of ten randomized studies from the published literature comparing fluorouracil to regimens of fluorouracil + leucovorin that were similar to the control arms used in these Studies SO14695 and SO14796. The method for comparing the treatments was to examine the worst case (95% confidence upper bound) for the difference between fluorouracil + leucovorin and capecitabine, and to show that loss of more than 50% of the fluorouracil + leucovorin survival effect was ruled out. It was demonstrated that the percent of the survival effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin maintained was at least 61% for Study SO14796 and 10% for Study SO14695. The pooled result is consistent with a retention of at least 50% of the effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin. It should be noted that these values for preserved effect are based on the upper bound of the fluorouracil + leucovorin vs capecitabine difference.
Figure 3 Kaplan-Meier Curve for Overall Survival of Pooled Data (Studies SO14695 and SO14796)
In Combination with Oxaliplatin:
The efficacy of capecitabine for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from studies in the published literature, including NO16966 [NCT00069095], a randomized, non-inferiority, 2x2 factorial trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was progression free survival.
14.2 Metastatic Breast Cancer
In Combination With Docetaxel:
The efficacy of capecitabine in combination with docetaxel was evaluated in an open-label, multicenter, randomized trial (Study SO14999). Eligible patients had metastatic breast cancer resistant to, or recurring during or after an anthracycline-containing therapy, or relapsing during or recurring within 2 years of completing an anthracycline-containing adjuvant therapy were enrolled. Patients were randomized to capecitabine 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle and docetaxel 75 mg/m2 as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of day of a 21-day cycle or docetaxel 100 mg/m2 as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of a 21-day cycle. The efficacy outcome measures were time to disease progression, overall survival, and response rate.
Patient demographics are provided in Table 14.
Table 14: Baseline Demographics in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)
Capecitabine +Docetaxel (N=255)
Docetaxel (N=256)
Age (median, years)
52
51
Karnofsky Performance Status (median)
90
90
Site of Disease
Lymph nodes, %
47
49
Liver, %
45
48
Bone, %
42
46
Lung, %
37
39
Skin, %
29
29
Prior Chemotherapy
Anthracycline1, %
100
100
Fluorouracil, %
77
74
Paclitaxel, %
10
9
Resistance to an Anthracycline
No resistance, %
7
7
Progression on anthracycline therapy, %
26
29
Stable disease after 4 cycles of anthracycline therapy, %
16
16
Relapsed within 2 years of completion of anthracycline-adjuvant therapy, %
31
29
Experienced a brief response to anthracycline therapy, with subsequent progression while on therapy or within 12 months after last dose, %
20
20
No. of Prior Chemotherapy Regimens for Treatment of Metastatic Disease
0, %
35
31
1, %
48
53
2, %
17
15
3, %
0
1
1. Includes 10 patients in combination and 18 patients in single agent arms treated with an anthracenedione
Efficacy results are shown in Table 15, Figure 4 and Figure 5.
Table 15: Efficacy Results in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)
Efficacy Parameter
Capecitabine +Docetaxel (N=255)
Docetaxel (N=256)
Time to Disease Progression
Median, months
6.1
4.2
95% CI
(5.4, 6.5)
(3.5, 4.5)
Hazard Ratio
0.643
p-value
0.0001
Overall Survival
Median, months
14.5
11.6
95% CI
(12.3, 16.3)
(9.8, 12.7)
Hazard Ratio
0.775
p-value
0.0126
Response Rate 1
32%
22%
1. The response rate reported represents a reconciliation of the investigator and IRC assessments performed by the sponsor according to a predefined algorithm.
Figure 4 Kaplan-Meier Estimates for Time to Disease Progression in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)
![]()
Figure 5 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Survival in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)
Single Agent:
The efficacy of capecitabine as a single agent was evaluated in an open-label single-arm trial (Study SO14697). Eligible patients had metastatic breast cancer resistant to both paclitaxel and an anthracycline-containing chemotherapy regimen or resistant to paclitaxel and for whom further anthracycline therapy is not indicated (e.g., patients who have received cumulative doses of 400 mg/m2 of doxorubicin or doxorubicin equivalents). Resistance was defined as progressive disease while on treatment, with or without an initial response, or relapse within 6 months of completing treatment with an anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy regimen. Patients received capecitabine 1,255 mg/m2 orally twice daily for first 14-days of a 21-day treatment cycle. The major efficacy outcome measure was tumor response rate in patients with measurable disease, with response defined as a ≥50% decrease in sum of the products of the perpendicular diameters of bidimensionally measurable disease for at least 1 month.
The baseline demographics are shown in Table 16.
Table 16: Baseline Demographics in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14697)
Patients With Measurable Disease (N=135)
All Patients (N=162)
Age (median, years)
55
56
Karnofsky Performance Status
90
90
No. Disease Sites
1-2, %
32
37
3-4, %
46
43
>5, %
22
21
Dominant Site of Disease
Visceral1, %
75
68
Soft Tissue, %
22
22
Bone, %
3
10
Prior Chemotherapy
Paclitaxel, %
100
100
Anthracycline2, %
90
91
Fluorouracil, %
81
82
Resistance to Paclitaxel, %
76
77
Resistance to an Anthracycline2, %
41
41
Resistance to both Paclitaxel and an Anthracycline2, %
32
31
1. Lung, pleura, liver, peritoneum
2. Includes 2 patients treated with an anthracenedione
Efficacy for Study SO14697 are shown in Table 17.
Table 17: Efficacy Results in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14697)
Efficacy Parameter
Resistance to Both Paclitaxel and an Anthracycline (N=43)
Response Rate 1
(95% CI)
25.6% (13.5, 41.2)
Complete Response
0%
Partial Response1
11%
Duration of Response 1
Median, months2 (Range)
5.1 (2.1-7.7)
1. Includes 2 patients treated with an anthracenedione
2. From date of first response
For the subgroup of 43 patients who were doubly resistant, the median time to progression was 3.4 months and the median survival was 8.4 months. The objective response rate in this population was supported by a response rate of 18.5% (1 CR, 24 PRs) in the overall population of 135 patients with measurable disease, who were less resistant to chemotherapy (see Table 15). The median time to progression was 3.0 months and the median survival was 10.1 months.
14.3 Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
The efficacy of capecitabine for treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from studies in the published literature. Capecitabine was evaluated in REAL-2, a randomized non-inferiority, 2x2 factorial trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival, and an additional randomized trial conducted by the North Central Cancer Treatment Group, where the major efficacy outcome measure was objective response rate.
The efficacy of capecitabine for the treatment of adults with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma who have not received prior treatment for metastatic disease as a component of a combination regimen was derived from studies in the published literature. Capecitabine was evaluated in the ToGA trial [NCT01041404], an open-label, multicenter, randomized trial where the primary efficacy measure was overall survival.
14.4 Pancreatic Cancer
The efficacy of capecitabine for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from a study in the published literature. Capecitabine was evaluated in ESPAC-4 trial, a two-group, open-label, multicenter, randomized trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival.
15 References
1. “OSHA Hazardous Drugs.” OSHA. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hazardousdrugs/index.html.
16 How Supplied/storage And Handling
Capecitabine Tablets, USP are supplied as follows:
• 150 mg, pink to speckled pink film-coated, modified oval, beveled edge tablet with “54 242” on one side and plain on the other. NDC 0054-0271-21: Bottle of 60 Tablets• 500 mg, pink to speckled pink film-coated, modified oval, beveled edge tablet with “54 706” on one side and plain on the other.
NDC 0054-0272-23: Bottle of 120 Tablets
Storage and Handling
Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] KEEP TIGHTLY CLOSED.
Capecitabine is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.1
17 Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).
Increased Risk of Bleeding with Concomitant Use of Vitamin K Antagonists:
Advise patients on vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin, that they are at an increased risk of severe bleeding while taking capecitabine. Advise these patients that INR should be monitored more frequently, and dosage modifications of the vitamin K antagonist may be required, while taking and after discontinuation of capecitabine. Advise these patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider if signs or symptoms of bleeding occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
Serious Adverse Reactions from Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD) Deficiency:
Inform patients of the potential for serious and life-threatening adverse reactions due to DPD deficiency and discuss with your patient whether they should be tested for genetic variants of DPYD that are associated with an increased risk of serious adverse reactions from the use of capecitabine. Advise patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider if symptoms of severe mucositis, diarrhea, neutropenia, and neurotoxicity occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)].
Cardiotoxicity:
Advise patients of the risk of cardiotoxicity and to immediately contact their healthcare provider for new onset of chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or lightheadedness [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Diarrhea:
Inform patients experiencing grade 2 diarrhea (an increase of 4 to 6 stools/day or nocturnal stools) or greater or experiencing severe bloody diarrhea with severe abdominal pain and fever to stop taking capecitabine. Advise patients on the use of antidiarrheal treatments (e.g., loperamide) to manage diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Dehydration:
Instruct patients experiencing grade 2 or higher dehydration to stop taking capecitabine immediately and to contact their healthcare provider. Advise patients to not restart capecitabine until rehydrated and any precipitating causes have been corrected or controlled [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
Renal Toxicity:
Instruct patients experiencing decreased urinary output or other signs and symptoms of renal toxicity to immediately contact their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Serious Skin Toxicities:
Instruct patients skin rash, bulering, or peeling to immediately contact their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome:
Instruct patients experiencing grade 2 palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome or greater to stop taking capecitabine immediately and to contact their healthcare provider. Inform patients that initiation of symptomatic treatment is recommended and hand-and-foot syndrome can lead to loss of fingerprints which could impact personal identification [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Myelosuppression:
Inform patients who develop a fever of 100.5°F or greater or other evidence of potential infection to immediately contact their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Hyperbilirubinemia:
Inform patients who develop jaundice or icterus to immediately contact their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity:
Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus.
Advise females of reproductive potential to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11), Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 6 months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 3 months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Lactation:
Advise females not to breastfeed during treatment with capecitabine and for 1 week after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].
Infertility:
Advise males and females of reproductive potential that capecitabine may impair fertility [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Hypersensitivity and Angioedema:
Advise patients that capecitabine may cause severe hypersensitivity reactions and angioedema. Advise patients who have known hypersensitivity to capecitabine or 5-fluorouracil to inform their healthcare provider [see Contraindications (4)]. Instruct patients who develop hypersensitivity reactions or mucocutaneous symptoms (e.g., urticaria, rash, erythema, pruritus, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat which make it difficult to swallow or breathe) to stop taking capecitabine and immediately contact their healthcare provider or to go to an emergency room. [see Adverse Reactions (6)].
Nausea and Vomiting:
Instruct patients experiencing grade 2 nausea (food intake significantly decreased but able to eat intermittently) or greater to stop taking capecitabine and to immediately contact their healthcare provider for management of nausea [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Instruct patients experiencing grade 2 vomiting (2 to 5 episodes in a 24-hour period) or greater to stop taking capecitabine immediately and to contact their healthcare provider for management of vomiting [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Stomatitis:
Inform patients experiencing grade 2 stomatitis (painful erythema, edema or ulcers of the mouth or tongue, but able to eat) or greater to stop taking capecitabine immediately and to contact their healthcare provider [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Important Administration Instructions:
Advise patients to swallow capecitabine tablets whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal. Advise patients and caregivers not to chew, crush, or cut capecitabine tablets. Advise patients if they cannot swallow capecitabine tablets whole to inform their healthcare provider [see Dosage and Administration (2.7), Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Drug Interactions:
Instruct patients not to take products containing folic acid or folate analog products (e.g., leucovorin, levoleucovorin) unless directed to do so by their healthcare provider. Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider of all prescription or nonprescription medications, vitamins or herbal products [see Drug Interactions (7.1, 7.2, 7.3)].
Distributed by: Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc.
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
C50000412/04 Revised August 2023
Patient Information
Capecitabine Tablets, USP
(kap” e sye’ ta been)
Rx Only
What is the most important information I should know about capecitabine?
Capecitabine can cause serious side effects, including:
• Increased risk of bleeding when taking capecitabine with blood thinner medicines, such as warfarin. Taking capecitabine with these medicines can cause changes in how fast your blood clots and can cause bleeding that can lead to death. This can happen as soon as a few days after you start taking capecitabine, or later during treatment, and possibly within 1 month after you stop taking capecitabine. This can happen in people whose cancer has spread to the liver (liver metastasis) and in people whose cancer has not spread to the liver.
o Before taking capecitabine, tell your healthcare provider if you are taking warfarin or another blood thinner medicine.o If you take warfarin or another blood thinner that is like warfarin during treatment with capecitabine, your healthcare provider should do blood tests more often, to check how fast your blood clots during and after you stop treatment with capecitabine. Your healthcare provider may change your dose of the blood thinner medicine if needed.o Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any signs or symptoms of bleeding.
See “What are the possible side effects of capecitabine?” for more information about side effects.
What is capecitabine?
Capecitabine is a prescription medicine used to treat:
• A kind of cancer called colon or rectal (colorectal) cancer. Capecitabine may be used:
o alone or in combination with other chemotherapy medicines in people with colon cancer that has spread to lymph nodes in the area close to the colon (Stage III colon cancer), to help prevent your cancer from coming back after you have had surgery.o adults with rectal cancer, around the time of your surgery, as a part of chemotherapy and radiation (chemoradiation) treatment when your rectal cancer has spread to nearby tissues (locally advanced).o alone or in combination with other chemotherapy medicines, when your colorectal cancer cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other areas of your body (metastatic).• A kind of cancer called breast cancer. Capecitabine may be used in people with breast cancer that is advanced or has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic):
o alone if you are not able to receive an anthracycline medicine or taxane-containing chemotherapy.o in combination with docetaxel when you have received anthracycline containing chemotherapy and it is no longer working.• Kinds of cancer called stomach (gastric), esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. Capecitabine may be used in adults:
o in combination with other chemotherapy medicines when your cancer of the stomach, esophagus, or GEJ cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic).o when your cancer of the stomach, esophagus, or GEJ is metastatic adenocarcinoma, and:
▪ is HER2-positive, and▪ you have not received treatment with capecitabine in combination with other treatments for your metastatic cancer.• A kind of cancer called pancreatic cancer. Capecitabine may be used to treat adults in combination with other chemotherapy medicines, to help prevent your pancreatic cancer from coming back after you have had surgery.
It is not known if capecitabine is safe and effective in children.
Do not take capecitabine if you:
• have had a severe allergic reaction to fluorouracil or capecitabine. See the end of this leaflet for a complete ul of ingredients in capecitabine.
Talk to your healthcare provider before taking capecitabine if you are not sure.
Before taking capecitabine, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:
See “What is the most important information I should know about capecitabine?”
• have had heart problems.• have kidney or liver problems.• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Capecitabine can harm your unborn baby. Females who are able to become pregnant:o Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with capecitabine.o Use an effective method of birth control (contraception) during treatment and for 6 months after your last dose of capecitabine. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control choices that may be right for you during treatment with capecitabine.o Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you might be pregnant during treatment with capecitabine.Males who have female partners who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for 3 months after your last dose of capecitabine. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if capecitabine passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with capecitabine and for 1 week after your last dose of capecitabine.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Capecitabine may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect the way capecitabine works.
How should I take capecitabine?
• Take capecitabine exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.• Your healthcare provider will tell you how much capecitabine to take and when to take it. The number of days that you will take capecitabine during each treatment cycle and the number of days in each treatment cycle depends on the type of cancer you are being treated for.• Take capecitabine 2 times a day at the same time each day, about 12 hours apart.• Take capecitabine within 30 minutes after finishing a meal.• Swallow capecitabine tablets whole with water. Do not chew, cut, or crush capecitabine tablets. See “Eye irritation, skin rash and other side effects with exposure to crushed capecitabine tablets” in the section called “What are the possible side effects of capecitabine?”• If you cannot swallow capecitabine tablets whole, tell your healthcare provider.• Your healthcare provider may change your dose, temporarily stop, or permanently stop treatment with capecitabine if you develop side effects.• Do not take products that contain folic acid or folate analog products, for example, leucovorin or levoleucovorin, during treatment with capecitabine, unless your healthcare provider instructs you to take it.• If you vomit after taking a dose of capecitabine, do not take another dose at that time. Wait and take your next dose of capecitabine at your scheduled time.• If you miss a dose of capecitabine, just skip the dose and then take your next dose at your scheduled time.• If you take too much capecitabine, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.
What are the possible side effects of capecitabine?
Capecitabine can cause serious side effects including:
• See “What is the most important information I should know about capecitabine?”• Serious side effects in people with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency. People with certain changes in a gene called “DPYD” may have a deficiency of the DPD enzyme. Some of these people may not produce enough DPD enzyme, and some of these people may not produce the DPD enzyme at all.
o People who do not produce any DPD enzyme are at increased risk of sudden side effects that come on early during treatment with capecitabine and can be serious, and sometimes lead to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the following symptoms and they are severe, including:
• sores of the mouth, tongue, throat and esophagus (mucositis)
• diarrhea
• low white blood cell counts
• nervous system problems.
o People with some DPD enzyme may have an increased risk of serious side effects with capecitabine treatment that can sometimes lead to death.Your healthcare provider should talk with you about DPYD testing to look for DPD deficiency. • Heart problems. Capecitabine can cause heart problems including: heart attack and decreased blood flow to the heart, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, changes in the electrical activity of your heart seen on an electrocardiogram (ECG), problems with your heart muscle, heart failure, and sudden death. You may have an increased risk of heart problems with capecitabine if you have a history of narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (coronary artery disease). Stop taking capecitabine and call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you get any new symptoms of a heart problem including:
o chest paino shortness of breath
o dizzinesso lightheadedness
• Diarrhea. Diarrhea is common with capecitabine and can sometimes be severe. Stop taking capecitabine and call your healthcare provider right away if the number of bowel movements you have in a day increases by 4 or more bowel movements than what is usual for you, or if you have bowel movements at night. Ask your healthcare provider about what medicines you can take to treat your diarrhea. Stop taking capecitabine if you have severe bloody diarrhea with severe abdominal pain and fever and call you healthcare provider right away.• Loss of too much body fluid (dehydration) and kidney failure. Dehydration can happen with capecitabine and may affect how well your kidneys work. If you take capecitabine with certain other medicines that can cause kidney problems, you may have an increased risk of serious kidney failure that can sometimes lead to death. Your risk of kidney failure may also be increased if you have kidney problems before taking capecitabine.Nausea, and vomiting are common with capecitabine. If you lose your appetite, feel weak, and have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, you can quickly become dehydrated. Stop taking capecitabine and call your healthcare provider right away if you:
o vomit 2 or more times in a day.o are only able to eat or drink a little now and then, or not at all due to nausea.o have diarrhea. See “diarrhea” above.You may need to receive fluids through your vein (intravenous) to treat your dehydration or receive treatment for kidney failure. • Severe skin and mouth reactions.
o Capecitabine can cause severe skin reactions that may lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop a skin rash, buler and peeling of your skin. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking capecitabine if you have a serious skin reaction. Do not take capecitabine again if this happens.o Capecitabine can also cause “hand and foot” syndrome. Hand and foot syndrome is common with capecitabine and can cause you to have numbness and changes in sensation in your hands and feet, or cause redness, pain, swelling of your hands and feet. Stop taking capecitabine and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms and you are not able to do your usual activities.o Hand and foot syndrome can lead to a loss of fingerprints which could impact your identification.o You may get sores in your mouth or on your tongue when taking capecitabine. Stop taking capecitabine and call your healthcare provider right away if you get painful redness, swelling, or ulcers in your mouth or tongue, or if you are having problems eating.• Decreased white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cell counts. Decreased white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cell counts can happen with capecitabine and can sometimes be severe. Your healthcare provider will do blood tests during treatment with capecitabine to check your blood cell counts.If your white blood cell count is very low, you are at increased risk for infection. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop a fever of 100.5°F or greater or have other signs and symptoms of infection. • Increased level of bilirubin in your blood and liver problems. Increased bilirubin in your blood is common with capecitabine and can also sometimes be severe. Your healthcare provider will check you for these problems during treatment with capecitabine. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes.• Eye irritation, skin rash and other side effects with exposure to crushed capecitabine tablets. If you come into contact with (you are exposed to) crushed capecitabine tablets, you may develop side effects including:
o eye irritation and swellingo skin rasho diarrhea
o feeling like pins and needles in your handso headacheo stomach irritationo nausea and vomiting
Do not chew, cut, or crush capecitabine tablets. See “How should I take capecitabine tablets.”
If for any reason your tablets must be cut or crushed, this must be done by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider may decide to decrease your dose, or temporarily or permanently stop capecitabine if you have serious side effects with capecitabine.
The most common side effects in people with colon cancer who take capecitabine alone to help prevent it from coming back include: hand and foot syndrome, diarrhea, and nausea.
The most common side effects in people with metastatic colorectal carcinoma who take capecitabine alone include:
• decreased red blood cell count• diarrhea• hand and foot syndrome• increased bilirubin level in your blood
• nausea• tiredness• stomach-area (abdominal) pain
The most common side effects in people with metastatic breast cancer who take capecitabine in combination with docetaxel include:
• diarrhea• mouth sores or mouth inflammation• hand and foot syndrome• nausea and vomiting
• hair loss• swelling• stomach-area (abdominal) pain
The most common side effects in people with metastatic breast cancer who take capecitabine alone include:
• decreased white blood cell and red blood cell count• diarrhea• hand and foot syndrome
• nausea and vomiting• tiredness• skin inflammation, including rash
Severe allergic reactions can happen with capecitabine. See “Do not take capecitabine if you:” Stop taking capecitabine and call your healthcare provider right away or go to an emergency room if you have any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to capecitabine:
• red itchy welts on your skin (hives)• rash
• skin redness• itching
• swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat• trouble swallowing or breathing
Capecitabine may cause fertility problems in females and males. This may affect the ability to have a child. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about fertility.
These are not all the possible side effects of capecitabine.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store capecitabine?
• Store capecitabine at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).• Keep capecitabine in a tightly closed container.• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist how to safely throw away any unused capecitabine.
Keep capecitabine tablets and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of capecitabine.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those uled in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use capecitabine for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give capecitabine to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about capecitabine that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in Capecitabine Tablets, USP?
Active ingredient: capecitabine, USP
Inactive ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate and silicified microcrystalline cellulose. In addition to the ingredients uled above, each tablet contains Opadry II (Pink). Opadry II (Pink) contains FD&C Blue #2 Indigo Carmine Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red #40 Allura Red AC Aluminum Lake, FD&C Yellow #6 Sunset Yellow FCF Aluminum Lake, hypromellose, macrogol, polydextrose, titanium dioxide, and triacetin.
For more information, call Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. at 1-800-962-8364.
This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Distributed by: Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc.
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
C50000412/04
Revised August 2023
Package/label Principal Display Panel
Capecitabine Tablets USP, 150 mg
NDC 0054-0271-21: Bottle of 60 Tablets
Rx only
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Package/label Principal Display Panel
Capecitabine Tablets USP, 500 mg
NDC 0054-0272-23: Bottle of 120 Tablets
Rx only
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