Buy Generic Xeloda Online

Generic Xeloda Information

Introduction

Xeloda (generic name Capecitabine) is an oral chemotherapeutic agent classified within theimetabolite group of cancer medicines. It is supplied by Roche AG as the branded product Xeloda and is also available as a generic formulation in many markets. In Hong Kong, Capecitabine is prescribed for several solid tumours, most commonly colorectal, breast and gastric cancers, either as a single agent or in combination with other systemic therapies. The drug is taken by mouth, which provides a convenient alternative to intravenous chemotherapy for patients who meet the clinical criteria.

What is Xeloda?

Xeloda is the brand‑ formulation of the‑drug Capecitabine. Capecitabine was developed through a collaborative effort between Roche and the U.S. National Cancer Institute and received first regulatory approval in the United States in 1998. The branded version Xeloda contains the same active compound as generic Capecitabine tablets and is marketed in over 70 countries.

Our online pharmacy provides the generic version of Capecitabine, offering the same therapeutic ingredient at a lower cost while meeting the same quality standards required by the Hong Kong Department of Health.

How Xeloda WorksCapecitabine is a pro‑drug that is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes three enzymatic steps before becoming the active cytotoxic agent 5‑fluorouracil (5‑FU).

1. First step (intestinal): Carboxylesterase converts Capecitabine to 5′‑deoxy‑5‑fluorocytidine (5′‑DFCR).
2. Second step (liver): Cytidine deaminase transforms 5′‑DFCR into 5′‑deoxy‑5‑fluorouridine (5′‑DFUR).
3. Third step (tumour tissue): Thymidine phosphorylase – an enzyme more abundant in many malignant cells – converts 5 5‑FU.

The localized generation of 5‑FU within tumour tissue increases the drug’s antiproliferative effect while reducing systemic exposure. 5‑FU interferes with DNA synthesis by inhibiting thymidylate synthase and incorporating into RNA, leading to apoptosis of rapidly dividing cancer cells. Because the activation pathway relies on tumour‑enriched enzymes, Capecitabine can produce a higher intratumoural concentration of 5‑FU compared with continuous intravenous infusion of the same drug.

Conditions Treated with Xeloda

• Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC): Capecitabine is approved as a first‑line or later‑line option, often combined with oxaliplatin (the CAPOX regimen) or irinotecan (the XELIRI regimen).
• Early‑stage colorectal cancer (adjuvant setting): Following surgical resection, Capecitabine is given to reduce recurrence risk, either alone or with oxaliplatin (CAPOX).
• Metastatic breast cancer (mBC): Used as monotherapy or together with targeted agents such as trastuzumab for HER2‑positive disease.
• Gastric adenocarcinoma: Capecitabine combined with cisplatin is an accepted first‑line regimen for advanced disease.
• Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC): Approved in combination with radiotherapy for locally advanced disease when cisplatin is unsuitable.

In Hong Kong, colorectal cancer is the third most common malignancy and accounts for roughly 12 % of all new cancer cases annually (Hong Kong Cancer Registry, 2023). Breast cancer remains the leading cancer in women, while gastric cancer incidence is higher in older Asian populations. Capec efficacy‑toxicity profile make it a valuable component of standard treatment protocols for these prevalent cancers.

Suitable Candidates for Xeloda Treatment

• Patients with confirmed solid tumours listed in the approved indications, where a physician has determined that oral chemotherapy is appropriate.
• Individuals with adequate organ function: baseline hepatic transaminases ≤2.5 × ULN, total bilirubin ≤1.5 × ULN, creatinine clearance ≥50 mL/min, and a left ventricular ejection fraction within normal limits for those receiving combination therapy with cardiotoxic agents.
• Patients who can tolerate oral medication and have reliable adherence potential, such as those with stable gastrointestinal function and the ability to follow a structured dosing schedule.
• Patients who have contraindications to intravenous 5‑FU (e.g., poor peripheral venous access, severe infusion‑related reactions) may benefit from the oral route.

Capecitabine is not recommended for:

• Individuals with known hypersensitivity to Capecitabine, 5‑FU, or any excipients in the tablet.
• Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) because drug accumulation markedly raises toxicity risk.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, given the drug’s teratogenic potential.
• Patients receiving concurrent strong CYP or dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) inhibitors without dose adjustment, as these can lead to excessive 5‑FU exposure.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Diarrhoea: Usually mild to moderate; increases with cumulative dosing.
• Hand‑foot syndrome (palmar‑plantar erythrodysesthesia): Redness, swelling, and pain on the palms and soles; may limit dose intensity.
• Nausea and vomiting: Often controllable with antiemetic prophylaxis.
• Fatigue: Generalised tiredness that may affect daily activities.
• Mucositis: Inflammation of the oral mucosa causing soreness and difficulty eating.

Rare

• Cardiotoxicity: Rare cases of angina‑like chest pain or myocardial infar have been reported, particularly when combined with other cardiotoxic agents.
• Severe neutropenia or leukopenia: Increased infection risk; monitor complete blood counts regularly.
• Hyperbilirubinemia: Isolated elevation of bilirubin without concurrent transaminase rise.

Serious

• Severe hand‑foot syndrome leading to ulceration or infection, potentially requiring drug interruption.
• Life‑threatening diarrhoea with dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome / toxic epidermal necrolysis: Rare mucocutaneous reactions requiring immediate cessation of therapy.
• Hepatic failure in patients with pre‑existing liver disease.

Clinically Relevant Drug–Drug Interactions

• Warfarin: Capecitabine may enhance anticoagulant effect; monitor INR closely.
• Cisplatin and oxaliplatin: Combination increases risk of nephrotoxicity and peripheral neuropathy; dose adjustments may be necessary.
• 5‑Fluorouracil based regimens: Concomitant use leads to additive toxicity; avoid unless protocol‑specified.
• Enzyme inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole, atazanavir): May impair Capecitabine metabolism, raising 5‑FU plasma levels; consider dose reduction.
• Herbal supplements containing high levels of pyrimidines: Potential to alter DPD activity; patients should disclose all complementary medicines.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing: For most solid tumours, the usual adult dose is 125 mg/m² taken orally twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart) for 14 consecutive days, followed by a 7‑day rest period (21‑day cycle). Dose adjustments are made for renal impairment, age ≥75 years, or severe toxicity.
• Administration: Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, preferably within 30 minutes after a meal to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
• Missed dose: If a dose is forgotten and the scheduled time for the next dose is less than 12 hours away, skip the missed dose; do not double‑dose. Resume the regular schedule at the next dose time.
• Overdose: Symptoms may include severe diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and bone‑marrow suppression. Immediate medical attention is required; activated charcoal may be considered if presentation is within one hour of ingestion.
• Precautions: Avoid excessive alcohol, as it can exacerbate hand‑foot syndrome. Patients with diabetes should monitor blood glucose, as Capecitabine can affect metabolic control.

Buying Xeloda from Our Online Pharmacy

Patients in Hong Kong who encounter limited availability or high out‑of‑pocket costs for Capecitabine can obtain the generic formulation through our online pharmacy in Hong Kong.

• Affordability: Prices are set near the manufacturer’s cost, substantially lower than many local retail pharmacies.
• Verified quality: All products are sourced from FDA‑approved or EMA‑licensed manufacturers, with batch‑to‑batch consistency verified by independent laboratories.
• Reliable delivery: Discreet, trackable shipping is offered via express courier (delivery within 7 days) or regular airmail (approximately 3 weeks).
• Privacy‑focused service: As a pharmacy‑broker, we partner with overseas licensed pharmacies, ensuring a confidential ordering process that respects patients’ personal health information.

Our service is intended for adults who require a cost‑effective, high‑quality supply of Capecitabine and who have already secured appropriate medical supervision.

FAQ

• Is Capecitabine available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes. The branded version is sold as Xeloda by Roche, while multiple manufacturers produce generic Capecitabine tablets that contain the identical active ingredient. Generic options are typically less expensive and are widely prescribed.

• What storage conditions are recommended for Xeloda tablets?
  Store the tablets at controlled room temperature (15–30 °C), away from direct sunlight, moisture and heat sources. Do not refrigerate or freeze the medication; keep the container tightly closed.

• Can Xeloda be taken with food, and does the type of meal matter?
  Xeloda should be taken within 30 minutes after a normal meal. A meal containing moderate fat improves drug absorption, but excessive high‑fat meals are not required. Consistency in timing relative to meals helps maintain stable plasma levels.

• **How long can a patient safely continue Capecitabine therapy?
  Treatment duration is determined by the oncologist based on response, tolerability and disease status. Some protocols prescribe up to 8 cycles (approximately 6 months), while others continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs.

• Are there specific warnings for Asian patients taking Capecitabine?
  Genetic variations in the DPD enzyme, which metabolises 5‑FU, occur more frequently in East Asian populations and may increase toxicity risk. Testing for DPD deficiency is recommended before initiating therapy, especially in patients of Asian descent.

• What are the visible differences between Xeloda tablets and generic Capecitabine tablets?
  Xeloda tablets are typically round, bicolored (blue/white) with imprint “XELODA”. Generic versions may vary in shape, colour and imprint depending on the manufacturer, but all contain the same amount of active drug per tablet.

• Can Capecitabine be imported for personal use into Hong Kong?
  Yes, individuals may import a three‑month supply of prescription medicines for personal use under Hong Kong customs regulations, provided they hold a valid prescription and the product is approved by the Hong Kong Department of Health.

• Does travelling abroad affect the stability of Xeloda?
  Xeloda remains stable at normal ambient temperatures for up to 24 months when stored as directed. During travel, keep the medication in its original packaging, avoid exposure to extreme heat (e.g., in a car trunk) and protect it from moisture.

• What clinical trials established the efficacy of Capecitabine?
  Key phase III studies include the NO16966 trial (Capecitabine + oxaliplatin versus FOLFOX in metastatic colorectal cancer) and the HORIZON trial (Capecitabine + trastuzumab versus chemotherapy alone in HER2‑positive breast cancer). Both demonstrated non‑inferior overall survival with improved convenience.

• How does Capecitabine compare with intravenous 5‑FU in terms of side‑effect profile?
  While both drugs share common toxicities (e.g., myelosuppression, mucositis), Capecitabine tends to cause more hand‑foot syndrome and diarrhoea, but less catheter‑related complications and acute infusion reactions. The oral route also offers greater patient autonomy.

Glossary

Pro‑drug

An inactive compound that is metabolised in the body to produce an active pharmacological agent; Capecitabine becomes 5‑fluorouracil after enzymatic conversion.

Hand‑foot syndrome (palmar‑plantar erythrodysesthesia)

Dermatological toxicity characterized by redness, swelling, tingling, and pain on the palms and soles, frequently associated with certain chemotherapies such as Capecitabine.

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency

A genetic condition that reduces the breakdown of fluoropyrimidines, leading to increased risk of severe toxicity when treated with drugs like Capecitabine or 5‑FU.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Xeloda 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 Xeloda 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.