What to Avoid While Taking Capecitabine – A Complete Guidelines

BySaiful2460

Capecitabine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and gastric cancers. While taking capecitabine, it is important to avoid certain foods, medications, and activities that can interfere with its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Some things to avoid while taking capecitabine include:

  1. Alcohol: Alcohol can interact with capecitabine and increase the risk of side effects, such as mouth sores and gastrointestinal problems. It is recommended to avoid alcohol while taking capecitabine.
  2. Certain medications: Some medications, such as antacids and iron supplements, can interact with capecitabine and decrease its effectiveness. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
  3. Certain foods: Some foods, such as those high in tyramine, can interact with capecitabine and cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure. It is recommended to avoid foods such as aged cheese, soy sauce, and fermented foods while taking capecitabine.
  4. Sun exposure: Capecitabine can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn. It is important to use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure while taking capecitabine.
  5. Live vaccines: Live vaccines can increase the risk of infection and should be avoided while taking capecitabine. This includes vaccines such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
  6. Physical exertion: Capecitabine can cause fatigue and increase the risk of injury. It is important to avoid strenuous physical activity, such as heavy lifting and intense exercise, while taking capecitabine.

It is important to follow the instructions of your healthcare provider and avoid these and any other activities that can interfere with the effectiveness of capecitabine or increase the risk of side effects.

In conclusion, while taking capecitabine, it is important to avoid alcohol, certain medications, certain foods high in tyramine, sun exposure, live vaccines, and physical exertion. Following these guidelines can help ensure the effectiveness of capecitabine and reduce the risk of side effects.