Capecitabine, marketed under the brand name Xeloda, is an oral chemotherapy medication used to treat various cancers, including breast, colorectal, and gastric cancers. Once ingested, it is metabolized into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), which interferes with DNA and RNA synthesis, inhibiting cancer cell growth.

Common side effects of capecitabine include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and rashes. Severe side effects can involve blood clotting issues, allergic reactions, heart problems, and low blood cell counts. It's important to note that use during pregnancy may harm the fetus.

Capecitabine is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to fluorouracil or capecitabine, those with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency, and patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment. Additionally, it should not be used in conjunction with sorivudine or its analogues.

Approved by the FDA, capecitabine is utilized in various treatment regimens, either alone or in combination with other drugs, depending on the specific cancer type and patient condition.