jojo...
going through some of my 'saved stuff' today and found this pretty comprehensive guide to the sides of Xeloda. I really believe much is contollable through dosage etc. That is the 'latest' in findings anyway.
<<Possible side effects
Each person’s reaction to chemotherapy is unique. Some people have very few side effects, while others may experience more. The side effects described in this information will not affect everyone who is given capecitabine, and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.
We have outlined the most common side effects and those which are less common, so that you can be aware of them if they occur. However, we have not included those that are very rare and therefore extremely unlikely to affect you. If you notice any effects which you think may be due to the drug but which are not listed in this information, please discuss them with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.
Nausea (feelings of sickness) and vomiting This is usually mild. There are now very effective anti-sickness drugs to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting. If you do feel sick, tell your doctor, who can prescribe anti-sickness drugs.
Sore mouth and taste change Your mouth may become sore or you may notice small ulcers during this treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids and cleaning your teeth regularly and gently with a soft toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of this happening. Tell your doctor if you have any of these problems, as special mouthwashes and medicines to prevent or clear any mouth infection can be prescribed.
You may also notice that your food tastes different. Normal taste will come back after the treatment finishes.
Diarrhoea This can be quite severe but can usually be controlled with medicines. If you have diarrhoea more than 4–6 times a day, contact your specialist for advice immediately. You may be advised to stop taking capecitabine; however, it is often possible to restart the treatment at a lower dose. It is important to drink plenty of fluids if you have diarrhoea.
Abdominal pain and constipation It may help to drink plenty of fluids, eat a high-fibre diet and take gentle exercise. Sometimes you may need to take medicines to stimulate your bowel. These can be prescribed by your doctor.
Loss of appetite A dietitian or specialist nurse at your hospital can give advice and tips on boosting appetite, coping with eating difficulties and maintaining weight.
Skin changes Soreness and redness or darkening of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet (sometimes known as palmar plantar syndrome or hand-foot syndrome) can occur. You may be prescribed vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which can help to reduce this. A rash, and dry or itchy skin, may also occur. If you notice this, let your specialist know.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
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Less common side effects
Lowered resistance to infection Capecitabine can reduce the production of white blood cells by the bone marrow, making you more prone to infection. This effect can begin about seven days after treatment has been given and usually reaches its lowest point 10–14 days after starting the chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily and will usually have returned to normal before your next course of chemotherapy is due.
Contact your doctor or the hospital straightaway if:
Your temperature goes above 38ºC (100.5ºF)
You suddenly feel unwell (even with a normal temperature)
You will have a blood test before having more chemotherapy, to make sure that your cells have recovered. Occasionally it may be necessary to delay your treatment if your blood count is still low.
Bruising or bleeding Capecitabine can reduce the production of platelets (which help the blood to clot). Let your doctor know if you have any unexplained bruising or bleeding.
Anaemia (low number of red blood cells) While having treatment with capecitabine you may become anaemic. This may make you feel tired and breathless.
Hair loss Hair loss is uncommon but your hair may thin, or occasionally be lost completely. If this happens it usually begins about 3–4 weeks after starting treatment, although it may occur earlier. It is temporary, and the hair will start to regrow once the treatment ends.
Headaches and dizziness Tell your doctor if you have headaches or feel dizzy and lightheaded while taking capecitabine.
Increased production of tears This may be caused by capecitabine, and is temporary.>>
hugs,
patty