Buy Generic Capecitabine Online

Generic Capecitabine Information

Introduction

Capecitabine is an oral chemotherapy agent indicated for several solid tumours, including colorectal, breast and gastric cancers. The active compound is capecitabine, classified within the antimetabolite group of cancer therapeutics. In Hong Kong, capecitabine is prescribed by oncologists as part of standard treatment protocols and is available through licensed pharmacies and accredited online providers.

What is Capecitabine?

Capecitabine is a fluoropyrimidine pro‑drug that is converted in the body to 5‑fluorouracil (5‑FU), the cytotoxic agent responsible for tumour cell death. The drug was originally developed by Roche and marketed under the brand name Xeloda.

Capecitabine is the generic version of Xeloda, containing the same active compound capecitabine. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option.

It is supplied as film‑coated tablets of 150 mg and 500 mg, designed for oral administration.

How Capecitabine Works

After swallowing, capecitabine is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes three enzymatic steps:

1. Carboxylesterase in the liver converts capecitabine to 5′‑deoxy‑5‑fluorocytidine (5′‑DFCR).
2. Cytidine deaminase in the liver and tumour tissue further converts 5′‑DFCR to 5′‑deoxy‑5‑fluorouridine (5′‑DFUR).
3. Thymidine phosphorylase, which is present at higher levels in many tumour cells, finally transforms 5′‑DFUR into the active metabolite 5‑FU.

The selective activation in tumour tissue increases local concentrations of 5‑FU, allowing cell‑cycle‑specific inhibition of DNA synthesis while sparing most normal cells. The drug reaches peak plasma 5‑FU levels within 1–2 hours after ingestion, and the active metabolites are cleared primarily by renal excretion within 24 hours.

Conditions Treated with Capecitabine

• Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) – capecitabine is used alone or in combination with oxaliplatin (CAPEOX regimen) as a first‑line or later‑line therapy.
• Adjuvant treatment of stage III colon cancer – administered after surgical resection to reduce recurrence risk.
• Metastatic breast cancer – combined with docetaxel (XELIRI or XELODA‑docetaxel) for patients whose disease progressed on anthracyclines.
• Advanced gastric cancer – used with cisplatin or oxaliplatin in patients unsuitable for continuous infusion 5‑FU.

In Hong Kong, colorectal and breast cancers are among the most prevalent malignancies, accounting for a substantial proportion of oncologic consultations. The oral route of capecitabine offers a convenient alternative to continuous intravenous 5‑FU, supporting outpatient care and reducing hospital visits.

Patient Groups Most Likely to Benefit

• Adults with confirmed metastatic or locally advanced colorectal, breast or gastric cancer who are candidates for fluoropyrimidine‑based therapy.
• Patients preferring oral chemotherapy because of logistical, occupational or personal reasons, provided they can adhere to the dosing schedule and monitoring requirements.
• Individuals with adequate renal function (creatinine clearance ≥ 50 mL/min), as dose adjustments are required for reduced clearance.

Capecitabine is not appropriate for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (Category D – potential fetal toxicity).
• Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child‑Pugh C).
• Those with known hypersensitivity to capecitabine or any fluoropyrimidine.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Hand‑foot syndrome (palmar‑plantar erythrodysesthesia) – redness, swelling, pain on the palms and soles.
• Diarrhoea – may range from mild to severe; dehydration risk.
• Nausea and vomiting – often manageable with anti‑emetics.
• Fatigue – generalized lack of energy.
• Alopecia – thinning or loss of hair.

Rare

• Neutropenia – reduced neutrophil count, increasing infection risk.
• Anemia – decreased red blood cell count causing breathlessness.
• Mucositis – painful oral or gastrointestinal mucosal inflammation.
• Elevated liver enzymes – transient hepatitis‑like picture.

Serious

• Severe hand‑foot syndrome (grade 3–4) – may require dose interruption.
• Ileitis or intestinal perforation – acute abdominal pain, signs of peritonitis.
• Cardiotoxicity – chest pain, arrhythmias, or myocardial infarction, especially in patients with pre‑existing heart disease.
• Life‑threatening allergic reactions – rash, swelling, anaphylaxis.

Drug–Drug Interactions

• Warfarin and other anticoagulants – capecitabine may enhance anticoagulant effect; monitor INR closely.
• Cytidine deaminase inhibitors (e.g., allopurinol) – may increase 5‑FU exposure, heightening toxicity.
• Concurrent fluoropyrimidines (e.g., 5‑FU, tegafur) – additive myelosuppression and mucositis.
• Enzyme inducers or inhibitors of CYP2A6 – can modify capecitabine metabolism; dose adjustments may be needed.

Patients should disclose all prescription, over‑the‑counter and herbal products before starting therapy.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard adult dosing for metastatic colorectal cancer: 125 mg/m² taken orally twice daily for 14 days, followed by a 7‑day rest (21‑day cycle).
• Breast cancer dosing: 825 mg/m² twice daily on the same 14‑day‑on/7‑day‑off schedule, usually in combination with docetaxel.
• Renal adjustment: For creatinine clearance 30–50 mL/min, reduce the total daily dose by 25 %; below 30 mL/min, capecitabine is contraindicated.

Missed dose: If a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as remembered unless the next scheduled dose is less than 8 hours away; then skip the missed dose. Do not double‑dose.

Overdose: Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and profound myelosuppression. Seek emergency medical care immediately; treatment is supportive, with hydration, anti‑emetics and close monitoring of blood counts.

Precautions:

• Take each dose within 30 minutes after a meal to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
• Avoid excessive alcohol because of potential liver toxicity.
• Monitor complete blood counts, liver function tests and renal function before each cycle.

Buying Capecitabine from Our Online Pharmacy

Capecitabine can be ordered safely from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong.

• Affordable pricing – we source the generic product close to manufacturer cost, offering significant savings compared with brand‑name options.
• Verified quality – all batches come from licensed overseas manufacturers that meet GMP standards; each shipment is accompanied by a certificate of analysis.
• Guaranteed delivery – discreet packaging with express shipping (typically 7 days) or regular airmail (~3 weeks); tracking is provided for every order.
• Online‑only access – we specialize in medicines that may have limited local availability, providing a reliable channel for patients who need timely treatment.

Our service operates as a pharmacy broker, partnering with accredited overseas pharmacies and suppliers. This model enables a discreet, privacy‑respecting solution for patients who prefer confidential handling of their oncology medication.

FAQ

• Is Capecitabine available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes, the medication is marketed under the brand name Xeloda and also as a generic version containing the same active compound, capecitabine. The generic formulation is widely used because it offers the same therapeutic effect at a lower cost.

• Does Capecitabine require special storage conditions?
  The tablets should be stored at room temperature (15 °C–30 °C), protected from light, moisture and heat. Do not refrigerate or keep the medication in a bathroom cabinet where humidity is high.

• What packaging does Capecitabine come in when ordered online?
  Orders are dispatched in sealed, tamper‑evident blister packs, each containing the prescribed number of tablets. The outer box includes a printed label with the product name, strength, batch number and expiry date.

• Can Capecitabine be safely imported into Hong Kong for personal use?
  Personal import of prescription medicines is permitted when the patient holds a valid Hong Kong prescription and the quantity does not exceed 30 days’ supply. Our online pharmacy ensures that all shipments comply with local customs regulations.

• Are there manufacturer warnings specific to Asian populations?
  Clinical studies have shown a slightly higher incidence of hand‑foot syndrome among Asian patients, possibly related to genetic variations in drug‑metabolizing enzymes. Physicians may consider early dose adjustments or prophylactic skin care measures.

• Does the formulation differ between the EU, US and Asian markets?
  The active ingredient and dosage strengths are identical across regions, but excipients such as fillers or coating agents may vary slightly to meet local regulatory requirements. These differences do not affect efficacy.

• Can Capecitabine be used in a telemedicine‑based treatment plan?
  Yes, oncology telehealth programs can prescribe capecitabine after a comprehensive virtual assessment, provided that laboratory monitoring (blood counts, renal function) is arranged locally. Patients must still attend scheduled blood tests.

• What monitoring is required while taking Capecitabine?
  Prior to each treatment cycle, doctors usually order a complete blood count, liver function tests and serum creatinine. Ongoing assessment of skin toxicity and gastrointestinal symptoms is also essential.

• Is it safe to travel internationally while on Capecitabine?
  Travelling is permissible, but patients should carry a copy of their prescription, a medication summary, and maintain the dosing schedule according to their home time zone. Adequate hydration and access to medical care are advisable.

• Will my insurance cover generic Capecitabine in Hong Kong?
  Some private health insurers reimburse for generic chemotherapy agents when a physician’s prescription specifies the generic name. Coverage varies by policy; patients should verify with their insurer before ordering.

• Can herbal supplements interact with Capecitabine?
  Certain herbs, such as St. John’s wort (a CYP3A inducer), may alter capecitabine metabolism and increase the risk of toxicity. Patients should inform their oncologist of any complementary medicines they are taking.

Glossary

Prodrug

An inactive compound that is metabolized in the body to produce an active drug; capecitabine is a prodrug of 5‑fluorouracil.

Thymidine phosphorylase

An enzyme highly expressed in many tumour cells that catalyzes the final step converting 5′‑deoxy‑5‑fluorouridine into the cytotoxic agent 5‑fluorouracil.

Hand‑foot syndrome

Also called palmar‑plantar erythrodysesthesia; a skin reaction causing redness, swelling, and pain on the palms and soles, commonly associated with capecitabine.

Myelosuppression

Decreased production of blood cells by the bone marrow, leading to anemia, neutropenia or thrombocytopenia; a frequent toxicity of fluoropyrimidines.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Capecitabine is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Capecitabine for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.