Capecitabine (capecitabine) - Dosing, PA Forms & Info (2026)
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    2. Capecitabine - Capecitabine tablet

    Get your patient on Capecitabine - Capecitabine tablet (Capecitabine)

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    Capecitabine - Capecitabine tablet prescribing information

    • Boxed warning
    • Recent major changes
    • Indications & usage
    • Dosage & administration
    • Dosage forms & strengths
    • Pregnancy & lactation
    • Contraindications
    • Warnings & precautions
    • Adverse reactions
    • Drug interactions
    • Description
    • Pharmacology
    • Nonclinical toxicology
    • Clinical studies
    • How supplied/storage & handling
    • Mechanism of action
    • Data source
    • Boxed warning
    • Recent major changes
    • Indications & usage
    • Dosage & administration
    • Dosage forms & strengths
    • Pregnancy & lactation
    • Contraindications
    • Warnings & precautions
    • Adverse reactions
    • Drug interactions
    • Description
    • Pharmacology
    • Nonclinical toxicology
    • Clinical studies
    • How supplied/storage & handling
    • Mechanism of action
    • Data source
    Prescribing Information
    Boxed Warning


    WARNING: SERIOUS ADVERSE REACTIONS OR DEATH IN PATIENTS WITH COMPLETE DPD DEFICIENCY and BLEEDING WITH CONCOMITANT USE OF VITAMIN K ANTAGONISTS

    Increased risk of serious adverse reactions or death in patients with complete DPD deficiency

    • Test patients for genetic variants of DPYD prior to initiating capecitabine tablets unless immediate treatment is necessary. Avoid use of capecitabine tablets in patients with certain homozygous or compound heterozygous DPYD variants that result in complete DPD deficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )].

    Increased risk of bleeding with concomitant use of Vitamin K antagonists

    • Altered coagulation parameters and/or bleeding, including death, have been reported in patients taking c apecitabine tablets concomitantly with oral vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2 ) , Drug Interactions (7.2 ) ] .
    • Clinically significant increases in prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) have been reported in patients who were on stable doses of a vitamin K antagonist at the time capecitabine tablets was introduced. These events occurred in patients with and without liver metastases.
    • Monitor INR more frequently and adjust the dose of the vitamin K antagonist as appropriate [see Drug Interactions  (7.2) ] .
    Recent Major Changes

    RECENT MAJOR CHANGES SECTION

    Boxed Warning (10/2025)

    Dosage and Administration (2.1) (10/2025)

    Warnings and Precautions (5.1) (10/2025)

    Indications & Usage

    INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    Colorectal Cancer

    Capecitabine tablets are indicated for the:

    • adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a single agent or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen.
    • perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy.
    • treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a single agent or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen.

    Breast Cancer

    Capecitabine tablets are indicated for the:

    • treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer as a single agent if an anthracycline- or taxanecontaining chemotherapy is not indicated.

    • treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer in combination with docetaxel after disease progression on prior anthracycline-containing chemotherapy.

    Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer

    Capecitabine tablets are indicated for the:

    • treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen.

    • treatment of adults with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma who have not received prior treatment for metastatic disease as a component of a combination regimen.

    Pancreatic Cancer

    Capecitabine tablets are indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen.

    Dosage & Administration

    DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    2.1 Evaluation and Testing of DPD Deficiency Before Initiating Capecitabine Tablets

    Prior to initiating capecitabine tablets, test patients for genetic variants of the DPYD gene unless immediate treatment is necessary. An FDA-authorized test for the detection of the DPYD gene to identify patients at risk of serious adverse reactions with capecitabine tablets are not currently available. Currently available tests used to identify DPYD variants may vary in accuracy and design (e.g., which DPYD variant(s) they identify).

    Avoid use of capecitabine tablets in patients known to have certain homozygous or compound heterozygous DPYD variants that result in complete DPD deficiency. No capecitabine tablets dose has been proven safe for patients with complete DPD deficiency. For patients with partial DPD deficiency, individualize the dosage and modify based on tolerability and intent of treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )].

    Recommended Dosage for Colorectal Cancer

    Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer

    Single Agent

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets is 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles.

    In Combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets is 1,000 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m 2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.

    Refer to the oxaliplatin prescribing information for additional dosing information as appropriate.

    Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine is 825 mg/m 2 orally twice daily when administered with concomitant radiation therapy and 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily when administered without radiation therapy as part of a peri-operative combination regimen.

    Unresectable or Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

    Single Agent

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets is 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

    In Combination with Oxaliplatin

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets is 1,000 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m 2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.

    Refer to the Prescribing Information for oxaliplatin for additional dosing information as appropriate.

    Recommended Dosage for Breast Cancer

    Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer

    Single Agent

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets is 1,000 mg/m 2 or 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Individualize the dose and dosing schedule of capecitabine tablets based on patient risk factors and adverse reactions.

    In Combination with Docetaxel

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets is 1,000 mg/m 2 or 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with docetaxel 75 mg/m 2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.

    Refer to the Prescribing Information for docetaxel for additional dosing information as appropriate.

    Recommended Dosage for Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets for unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer is:

    • 625 mg/m 2 orally twice daily on days 1 to 21 of each 21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

    OR

    • 850 mg/m 2 or 1,000 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with oxaliplatin 130 mg/m 2 administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle. Individualize the dose and dosing schedule of capecitabine tablets based on patient risk factors and adverse reactions.

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets for HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma is 1,000 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with cisplatin and trastuzumab.

    Refer to the Prescribing Information for agents used in combination for additional dosing information as appropriate.

    Recommended Dosage for Pancreatic Cancer

    The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablets is 830 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 21 days of each 28-day cycle until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or for a maximum 6 cycles in combination with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m 2 administered intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 of each cycle.

    Refer to Prescribing Information for gemcitabine for additional dosing information as appropriate.

    Dosage Modifications for Adverse Reactions

    Monitor patients for adverse reactions and modify dosages of capecitabine tablets as described in Table 1. Do not replace missed doses of capecitabine tablets; instead resume capecitabine tablets with the next planned dosage.

    When capecitabine tablets is administered with docetaxel, withhold capecitabine tablets and docetaxel until the requirements for resuming both capecitabine tablets and docetaxel are met. Refer to the Prescribing Information for docetaxel for additional dosing information as appropriate.

    Table 1 Recommended Dosage Modifications for Adverse Reactions

    Severity Dosage Modification Resume at Sameor Reduced Dose (Percentof Current Dose)
    Grade 2
    1st appearance Withhold until resolved to grade 0-1. 100%
    2nd appearance 75%
    3rd appearance 50%
    4th appearance Permanently discontinue. -
    Grade 3
    1st appearance Withholduntil resolved to grade 0-1. 75%
    2nd appearance 50%
    3rd appearance Permanently discontinue. -
    Grade 4
    1st appearance Permanently discontinue OR Withhold until resolved to grade 0-1. 50%

    Hyperbilirubinemia

    Patients with Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia may resume treatment once the event is Grade 2 or less (less than three times the upper limit of normal), using the percent of current dose as shown in column 3 of Table 1 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10 )].

    Dosage Modification For Renal Impairment

    Reduce the dose of capecitabine tablets by 25% for patients with creatinine clearance (CLcr) of 30 to 50 mL/min as determined by Cockcroft-Gault equation. A dosage has not been established in patients with severe renal impairment (CLcr <30 mL/min) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ].

    Administration

    Round the recommended dosage for patients to the nearest 150 mg dose to provide whole capecitabine tablets.

    Swallow capecitabine tablets whole with water within 30 minutes after a meal. Do not chew, cut, or crush capecitabine tablets [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12 )].

    Take capecitabine tablets at the same time each day approximately 12 hours apart.

    Do not take an additional dose after vomiting and continue with the next scheduled dose.

    Do not take a missed dose and continue with the next scheduled dose.

    Capecitabine tablet is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures.

    Dosage Forms & Strengths

    DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

    Capecitabine tablets, USP are for oral administration. Capecitabine tablets USP, 150 mg are light peach colored, biconvex, oblong film-coated tablets with ‘150’ debossed on one side and ‘RDY’ on other side. Capecitabine tablets USP, 500 mg are peach colored, biconvex, oblong tablets with “500” debossing on one side and “RDY” on other side.

    Pregnancy & Lactation

    USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

    Pregnancy

    Risk Summary

    Based on findings in animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1 )], capecitabine tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Available human data with capecitabine tablets use in pregnant women is not sufficient to inform the drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, administration of capecitabine to pregnant animals during the period of organogenesis caused embryolethality and teratogenicity in mice and embryolethality in monkeys at 0.2 and 0.6 times the exposure (AUC) in patients receiving the recommended dose of 1,250 mg/m 2 twice daily, respectively (see Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.

    The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

    Data

    Animal Data

    Oral administration of capecitabine to pregnant mice during the period of organogenesis at a dose of 198 mg/kg/day caused malformations and embryo lethality. In separate pharmacokinetic studies, this dose in mice produced 5’-DFUR AUC values that were approximately 0.2 times the AUC values in patients administered the recommended daily dose. Malformations in mice included cleft palate, anophthalmia, microphthalmia, oligodactyly, polydactyly, syndactyly, kinky tail and dilation of cerebral ventricles. Oral administration of capecitabine to pregnant monkeys during the period of organogenesis at a dose of 90 mg/kg/day, caused fetal lethality. This dose produced 5’-DFUR AUC values that were approximately 0.6 times the AUC values in patients administered the recommended daily dose.

    8.2 Lactation

    Risk Summary

    There is no information regarding the presence of capecitabine or its metabolites in human milk, or on its effects on milk production or the breastfed child. Capecitabine metabolites were present in the milk of lactating mice (see Data). Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with capecitabine tablets and for 1 week after the last dose.

    Data

    Lactating mice given a single oral dose of capecitabine excreted significant amounts of capecitabine metabolites into the milk.

    8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

    Capecitabine tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1 )].

    Pregnancy Testing

    Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating capecitabine tablets.

    Contraception

    Females

    Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine tablets and for 6 months after the last dose.

    Males

    Based on genotoxicity findings, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine tablets and for 3 months after the last dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1 )].

    Infertility

    Based on animal studies,capecitabine tablets may impair fertility in females and males of reproductive potential [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1 )].

    Pediatric Use

    The safety and effectiveness of capecitabine tablets in pediatric patients have not been established.

    Safety and effectiveness were assessed, but not established in two single arm studies in 56 pediatric patients aged 3 months to <17 years with newly diagnosed gliomas. In both trials, pediatric patients received an investigational pediatric formulation of capecitabine concomitantly with and following completion of radiation therapy (total dose of 5580 cGy in 180 cGy fractions). The relative bioavailability of the investigational formulation to capecitabine tablets was similar.

    The adverse reaction profile was consistent with that of adults, with the exception of laboratory abnormalities which occurred more commonly in pediatric patients. The most frequently reported laboratory abnormalities (per-patient incidence ≥ 40%) were increased ALT (75%), lymphocytopenia (73%), hypokalemia (68%), thrombocytopenia (57%), hypoalbuminemia (55%), neutropenia (50%), low hematocrit (50%), hypocalcemia (48%), hypophosphatemia (45%) and hyponatremia (45%).

    Geriatric Use

    Of 7938 patients with colorectal cancer who were treated with capecitabine tablets, 33% were older than 65 years. Of the 4536 patients with metastatic breast cancer who were treated with capecitabine tablets, 18% were older than 65 years.

    Of 1951 patients with gastric, esophageal, or gastrointestinal junction cancer who were treated with capecitabine tablets, 26% were older than 65 years.

    Of 364 patients with pancreatic cancer who received adjuvant treatment with capecitabine tablets, 47% were 65 years or older.

    No overall differences in efficacy were observed comparing older versus younger patients with colorectal cancer, gastric, esophageal or gastrointestinal junction cancer, or pancreatic cancer using the approved recommended dosages and treatment regimens.

    Older patients experience increased gastrointestinal toxicity due to capecitabine tablets compared to younger patients. Deaths from severe enterocolitis, diarrhea, and dehydration have been reported in elderly patients receiving weekly leucovorin and fluorouracil [see Drug Interactions (7.1 )].

    Renal Impairment

    The exposure of capecitabine and its inactive metabolites (5-DFUR and FBAL) increases in patients with CLcr <50 mL/min as determined by Cockcroft-Gault [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3 )]. Reduce the dosage for patients with CLcr of 30 to 50 mL/min [see Dosage and Administration (2.6 )]. There is limited experience with capecitabine tablets in patients with CLcr <30 mL/min, and a dosage has not been established in those patients. If no treatment alternative exists, capecitabine tablets could be administered to such patients on an individual basis applying a reduced starting dose, close monitoring of a patient's clinical and biochemical data and dose modifications guided by observed adverse reactions.

    Hepatic Impairment

    The exposure of capecitabine increases in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. The effect of severe hepatic impairment on the safety and pharmacokinetics of capecitabine tablets are unknown [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Monitor patients with hepatic impairment more frequently for adverse reactions.

    Contraindications

    CONTRAINDICATIONS

    Capecitabine tablets are contraindicated in patients with history of severe hypersensitivity reaction to fluorouracil or capecitabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.1 )].

    Warnings & Precautions

    WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    Serious Adverse Reactions or Death from Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD) Deficiency

    Patients with certain homozygous or compound heterozygous variants in the DPYD gene known to result in complete or near complete absence of DPD activity (complete DPD deficiency) are at increased risk for acute early-onset toxicity and serious, including fatal, adverse reactions due to capecitabine tablets (e.g., mucositis, diarrhea, neutropenia, and neurotoxicity). Patients with partial DPD activity (partial DPD deficiency) may also have increased risk of serious, or fatal, adverse reactions.

    Prior to initiating capecitabine tablets, test patients for genetic variants of the DPYD gene unlessimmediate treatment is necessary [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)]. Serious adverse reactions may still occur even if no DPYD variants are identified.

    Avoid use of capecitabine tablets in patients with certain homozygous or compound heterozygous DPYD variants that result in complete DPD deficiency.

    Withhold or permanently discontinue capecitabine tablets based on clinical assessment of the onset, duration, and severity of adverse reactions in patients with evidence of acute early-onset orunusually severe reactions. No capecitabine tablets dose has been proven safe for patients with complete DPD deficiency. For patients with partial DPD deficiency, individualize the dosage and modify based on tolerability and intent of treatment.

    An FDA-authorized test for the detection of genetic variants of the DPYD gene to identifypatients at risk of serious adverse reactions with capecitabine tablets treatment is not currently available. Currently available tests used to identify DPYD variants may vary in accuracy and design (e.g., which DPYD variant(s) they identify).

    Increased Risk of Bleeding With Concomitant Use of Vitamin K Antagonists

    Altered coagulation parameters and/or bleeding, including death, have been reported in patients taking capecitabine tablets concomitantly with vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin.

    Clinically significant increases in PT and INR have been reported in patients who were on stable doses of oral vitamin K antagonists at the time capecitabine tablets was introduced. These events occurred within several days and up to several months after initiating capecitabine tablets and, in a few cases, within 1 month after stopping capecitabine tablets. These events occurred in patients with and without liver metastases.

    Monitor INR more frequently and adjust the dose of the vitamin K antagonist as appropriate [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ].

    Cardiotoxicity

    Cardiotoxicity can occur with capecitabine tablets. Myocardial infarction/ischemia, angina, dysrhythmias, cardiac arrest, cardiac failure, sudden death, electrocardiographic changes, and cardiomyopathy have been reported with capecitabine tablets. These adverse reactions may be more common in patients with a prior history of coronary artery disease.

    Withhold capecitabine tablets for cardiotoxicity as appropriate [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 )]. The safety of resumption of capecitabine tablets in patients with cardiotoxicity that has resolved have not been established.

    Diarrhea

    Diarrhea, sometimes severe, can occur with capecitabine tablets. In 875 patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine tablets as a single agent, the median time to first occurrence of grade 2 to 4 diarrhea was 34 days (range: 1 day to 1 year).

    The median duration of grade 3 to 4 diarrhea was 5 days.Withhold capecitabine tablets and then resume at same or reduced dose or permanently discontinue based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 ) ].

    Dehydration

    Dehydration can occur with capecitabine tablets. Patients with anorexia, asthenia, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea may be at an increased risk of developing dehydration with capecitabine tablets. Optimize hydration before startingcapecitabine tablets. Monitor hydration status and kidney function at baseline and as clinically indicated. Withhold capecitabine tablets and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ].

    Renal Toxicity

    Serious renal failure, sometimes fatal, can occur with capecitabine tablets. Renal impairment or coadministration of capecitabine tablets with other products known to cause renal toxicity may increase the risk of renal toxicity [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

    Monitor renal function at baseline and as clinically indicated. Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine tablets. Withhold capecitabine tablets and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 )].

    5.7 Serious Skin Toxicities

    Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal, can occur with capecitabine tablets [see Adverse Reactions (6.2 )].

    Monitor for new or worsening serious skin reactions. Permanently discontinue capecitabine tablets for severe cutaneous adverse reactions.

    Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome

    Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (PPES) can occur with capecitabine tablets.

    In patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine tablets as a single agent, the median time to onset of grades 1 to 3 PPES was 2.6 months (range: 11 days to 1 year).

    Withhold capecitabine tablets and then resume at same or reduced dose or permanently discontinue based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 ) ].

    Myelosuppression

    Myelosuppression can occur with capecitabine tablets.

    In the 875 patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine tablets as a single agent, 3.2% had grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, 1.7% had grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, and 2.4% had grade 3 or 4 anemia.

    In the 251 patients with metastatic breast cancer who received capecitabine tablets with docetaxel, 68% had grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, 2.8% had grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, and 10% had grade 3 or 4 anemia.

    Necrotizing enterocolitis (typhlitis) has been reported. Consider typhlitis in patients with fever, neutropenia and abdominal pain.

    Monitor complete blood count at baseline and before each cycle. Capecitabine tablets is not recommended if baseline neutrophil count <1.5 x 10 9 /L or platelet count <100 x 10 9 /L. For grade 3 to 4 myelosuppression, withhold capecitabine tablets and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 )].

    Hyperbilirubinemia

    Hyperbilirubinemia can occur with capecitabine tablets. In the 875 patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine tablets as a single agent, grade 3 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 15% of patients and grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 3.9%. Of the 566 patients who had hepatic metastases at baseline and the 309 patients without hepatic metastases at baseline, grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 23% and 12%, respectively. Of these 167 patients with grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia, 19% had postbaseline increased alkaline phosphatase and 28% had postbaseline increased transaminases at any time (not necessarily concurrent). The majority of these patients with increased transaminases or alkaline phosphatase had liver metastases at baseline. In addition, 58% and 35% of the 167 patients with grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia had pre- and postbaseline increased alkaline phosphatase or transaminases (grades 1 to 4), respectively. Only 8% (n=13) and 3% (n=5) had grade 3 or 4 increased alkaline phosphatase or transaminases.

    In the 596 patients who received capecitabine tablets for metastatic colorectal cancer, the incidence of grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia was similar to that observed for the pooled population of patients with metastatic breast and colorectal cancer. The median time to onset for grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia was 64 days and median total bilirubin increased from 8 µm/L at baseline to 13 µm/L during treatment with capecitabine tablets. Of the 136 patients with grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia, 49 patients had grade 3 or 4 hyperbilirubinemia as their last measured value, of which 46 had liver metastases at baseline.

    In the 251 patients with metastatic breast cancer who receivedcapecitabine tablets with docetaxel, grade 3 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 7% and grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 2%.

    Withhold capecitabine tablets and then resume at a same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ]. Patients with Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia may resume treatment once the event is Grade 2 or less than three times the upper limit of normal, using the percent of current dose as shown in Table 1 [see Dosage and Administration (2.5 )].

    Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

    Based on findings from animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action, capecitabine tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Insufficient data is available on capecitabine tablets use in pregnant women to evaluate a drug-associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, administration of capecitabine to pregnant animals during the period of organogenesis caused embryolethality and teratogenicity in mice and embryolethality in monkeys at 0.2 and 0.6 times the human exposure (AUC) in patients who received a dosage of 1,250 mg/m 2 twice daily, respectively.

    Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine tablets and for 6 months following the last dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine tablets and for 3 months following the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3 )

    5.12 Eye Irritation, Skin Rash, and Other Adverse Reactions from Exposure to Crushed Tablets

    In instances of exposure to crushed capecitabine tablets, the following adverse reactions have been reported: eye irritation and swelling, skin rash, diarrhea, paresthesia, headache, gastric irritation, vomiting and nausea. Advise patients not to cut or crush tablets

    If capecitabine tablets tablets must be cut or crushed, this should be done by a professional trained in safe handling of cytotoxic drugs using appropriate equipment and safety procedures [see Dosage and Administration (2.7 )]. The safety and effectiveness have not been established for the administration of crushed capecitabine tablets.

    Adverse Reactions

    ADVERSE REACTIONS

    The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:

    • Cardiotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3 )]
    • Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4 )]
    • Dehydration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5 )]
    • Renal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6 )]
    • Serious Skin Toxicities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7 )]
    • Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8 )]
    • Myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9 )]
    • Hyperbilirubinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10 )]

    Clinical Trials Experience

    Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

    Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer

    Single Agent

    The safety of capecitabine tablets as a single agent was evaluated in patients with Stage III colon cancer in X-ACT [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Patients receivedcapecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle (N=995) or leucovorin 20 mg/m 2 intravenously followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2 as an intravenous bolus on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle (N=974). Among patients who received capecitabine tablets, the median duration of treatment was 5.4 months.

    Deaths due to all causes occurred in 0.8% of patients who received capecitabine tablets on study or within 28 days of receiving study drug. Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 11% of patients who received capecitabine tablets.

    Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, diarrhea, and nausea.

    Tables 2 and 3 summarize the adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities in X-ACT.

    Table 2 Adverse Reactions (>10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine tablets for Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer in X-ACT

    Adverse Reaction C apecitabine Tablets (N=995) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=974)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 or 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 or 4 (%)
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
    Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesiasyndrome 60 17 9 <1
    Gastrointestinal
    Diarrhea 47 12 65 14
    Nausea 34 2 47 2
    Stomatitis 22 2 60 14
    Vomiting 15 2 21 2
    Abdominal pain 14 3 16 2
    General
    Fatigue 16 <1 16 1
    Asthenia 10 <1 10 1
    Lethargy 10 <1 9 <1

    Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients are presented below:

    Eye: conjunctivitis

    Gastrointestinal: constipation, upper abdominal pain, dyspepsia

    General: pyrexia

    Metabolism and Nutrition : anorexia

    Nervous System:d izziness, dysgeusia, headache

    Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue: rash, alopecia, erythema

    Table 3 Grade 3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities (>1%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine tablets as a Single Agent for Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer in X- ACT

    Laboratory Abnormality C apecitabine tablets (N=995) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=974)
    Grade 3 or 4 (%) Grade 3 or 4 (%)
    Bilirubin increased 20 6
    Lymphocytes decreased 13 13
    Neutrophils/granulocytes decreased 2.4 26
    Calcium decreased 2.3 2.2
    Neutrophils decreased 2.2 26
    ALT increased 1.6 0.6
    Calcium increased 1.1 0.7
    Hemoglobin decreased 1 1.2
    Platelets decreased 1 0.7

    In Combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens

    The safety of capecitabine tablets for the perioperative treatment of adults with Stage III colon cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.1 )]. The safety of capecitabine tablets for the adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was similar to those in patients treated with capecitabine tablets as a single agent, with the exception of an increased incidence of neurosensory toxicity.

    Perioperative Treatment of RectalCancer

    The safety of capecitabine tablets for the perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.1 )]. The safety of capecitabine tablets for the perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy was similar to those in patients treated with capecitabine tablets as a single agent, with the exception of an increased incidence of diarrhea.

    Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

    Single Agent

    The safety of capecitabine tablets as a single agent was evaluated in a pooled metastatic colorectal cancer population (Study SO14695 and Study SO14796)[see Clinical Studies (14.1 )]. Patients received capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice a day for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle (N=596) or leucovorin 20 mg/m 2 intravenously followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2 as an intravenous bolus on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle (N=593). Among the patients who received capecitabine tablets, the median duration of treatment was 4.6 months.

    Deaths due to all causes occurred in 8% of patients who received capecitabine tablets on study or within 28 days of receiving study drug. Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction or intercurrent illness occurred in 13% of patients who received capecitabine tablets.

    Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were anemia, diarrhea, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, hyperbilirubinemia, nausea, fatigue, and abdominal pain.

    Table 4 shows the adverse reactions occurring in this pooled colorectal cancer population.

    Table 4 Adverse Reactions (>10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine tablets in Pooled Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Population (Study SO14695 and Study SO14796)

    Adverse Reaction C apecitabine tablets (N=596) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=593)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)
    Blood and Lymphatic System
    Anemia 80 2 <1 79 1 <1
    Neutropenia 13 1 2 46 8 13
    Gastrointestinal
    Diarrhea 55 13 2 61 10 2
    Nausea 43 4 – 51 3 <1
    Abdominal pain 35 9 <1 31 5 –
    Vomiting 27 4 <1 30 4 <1
    Stomatitis 25 2 <1 62 14 1
    Constipation 14 1 <1 17 1 –
    Gastrointestinal motility disorder 10 <1 – 7 <1 –
    Oral discomfort 10 – – 10 – –
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
    Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome 54 17 NA 6 1 NA
    Dermatitis 27 1 – 26 1 –
    Hepatobiliary
    Hyperbilirubinemia 48 18 5 17 3 3
    General
    Fatigue• 42 4 – 46 4 –
    Pyrexia 18 1 – 21 2 –
    Edema 15 1 – 9 1 –
    Pain 12 1 – 10 1 –
    Metabolism and Nutrition
    Decreased appetite 26 3 <1 31 2 <1
    Respiratory Thoracic and Mediastinal
    Dyspnea 14 1 – 10 <1 1
    Eye
    Eye irritation 13 – – 10 <1 –
    Nervous System
    Peripheral sensory neuropathy 10 – – 4 – –
    Headache 10 1 – 7 – –
    Musculoskeletal
    Back pain 10 2 – 9 <1 –

    – Not observed•

    Includes weakness

    NA = Not Applicable

    Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients are presented below:

    Eye: abnormal vision

    Gastrointestinal: upper gastrointestinal tract inflammatory disorders, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, ileus

    General: chest pain

    Infections: viral

    Metabolism and Nutrition: dehydration

    Musculoskeletal: arthralgia

    Nervous System:dizziness (excluding vertigo), insomnia, taste disturbance

    Psychiatric: mood alteration, depression

    Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal:cough, pharyngeal disorder

    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue: skin discoloration, alopecia

    Vascular: venous thrombosis

    In Combination with Oxaliplatin

    The safety of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.1 )]. The safety of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was similar to those in patients treated with capecitabine tablets as a single agent, with the exception of an increased incidence of peripheral neuropathy.

    Metastatic Breast Cancer

    In Combination with Docetaxel The safety of capecitabine tablets in combination with docetaxel was evaluated in patients with metastatic breast cancer in Study SO14999 [see Clinical Studies (14.2 )].Patients received capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle with docetaxel 75 mg/m 2 as 1- hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of each 21-day cycle for at least 6 weeks or docetaxel 100 mg/m 2 as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of each 21-day cycle for at least 6 weeks. Among patients who received capecitabine tablets, the mean duration of treatment was 4.2 months.

    Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 26% of patients who received capecitabine tablets. Dosage interruptions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 79% of patients who received capecitabine tablets and dosage reductions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 65%.

    Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were diarrhea, stomatitis, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, nausea, alopecia, vomiting, edema, and abdominal pain.

    Table 5 summarizes the adverse reactions in Study SO14999.

    Table 5 Adverse Reactions (≥10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine tablets with Docetaxel for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14999

    Adverse Reaction C apecitabine tablets with Docetaxel (N=251) Docetaxel (N=255)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)
    Gastrointestinal
    Diarrhea 67 14 <1 48 5 <1
    Stomatitis 67 17 <1 43 5 –
    Nausea 45 7 – 36 2 –
    Vomiting 35 4 1 24 2 –
    Abdominal pain 30 3 <1 24 2 –
    Constipation 20 2 – 18 – –
    Dyspepsia 14 – – 8 1 –
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
    Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome 63 24 NA 8 1 NA
    Alopecia 41 6 – 42 7 –
    Nail disorder 14 2 – 15 – –
    Cardiac
    Edema 33 <2 – 34 <3 1
    General
    Pyrexia 28 2 – 34 2 –
    Asthenia 26 4 <1 25 6 –
    Fatigue 22 4 – 27 6 –
    Weakness 16 2 – 11 2 –
    Pain in Limb 13 <1 – 13 2 –
    Blood and Lymphatic System
    Neutropenic fever 16 3 13 21 5 16
    Nervous System
    Taste disturbance 16 <1 – 14 <1 –
    Headache 15 3 – 15 2 –
    Paresthesia 12 <1 – 16 1 –
    Dizziness 12 – – 8 <1 –
    Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue
    Arthralgia 15 2 – 24 3 –
    Myalgia 15 2 – 25 2 –
    Back Pain 12 <1 – 11 3 –
    Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal
    Dyspnea 14 2 <1 16 2 –
    Cough 13 1 – 22 <1 –
    Sore Throat 12 2 – 11 <1 –
    Metabolism and Nutrition
    Anorexia 13 <1 – 11 <1 –
    Appetite decreased 10 – – 5 – –
    Dehydration 10 2 – 7 <1 <1
    Eye
    Lacrimation increased 12 – – 7 <1 –

    – Not observed

    NA = Not Applicable

    Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients are presented below:

    Blood and Lymphatic System: agranulocytosis, prothrombin decreased

    Cardiac: supraventricular tachycardia

    Eye: conjunctivitis, eye irritation

    Gastrointestinal: ileus, necrotizing enterocolitis, esophageal ulcer, hemorrhagic diarrhea, dry mouth

    General: chest pain (non-cardiac), lethargy, pain, influenza-like illness

    Hepatobiliary: jaundice, abnormal liver function tests, hepatic failure, hepatic coma, hepatotoxicity

    Immune System: hypersensitivity

    Infection: hypoesthesia, neutropenic sepsis, sepsis, bronchopneumonia, oral candidiasis, urinary tract infection

    Metabolism and Nutrition: weight decreased

    Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue:bone pain

    Nervous System: insomnia, peripheral neuropathy, ataxia, syncope, taste loss, polyneuropathy, migraine

    Psychiatric: depression

    Renal and Urinary: renal failure

    Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal: upper respiratory tract infection, pleural effusion, epistaxis, rhinorrhea

    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue: pruritis, rash erythematous, dermatitis, nail discoloration, onycholysis

    Vascular: lymphedema, hypotension, venous phlebitis and thrombophlebitis, postural hypotension, flushing

    Table 6 summarizes the laboratory abnormalities in this trial.

    Table 6 Laboratory Abnormalities (≥20%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine tablets with Docetaxel for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14999

    Laboratory Abnormality C apecitabine tablets with Docetaxel (N=251) Docetaxel (N=255)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)
    Hematologic
    Lymphocytopenia 99 48 41 98 44 40
    Leukopenia 91 37 24 88 42 33
    Neutropenia 86 20 49 87 10 66
    Anemia 80 7 3 83 5 <1
    Thrombocytopenia 41 2 1 23 1 2
    Hepatobiliary
    Hyperbilirubinemia 20 7 2 6 2 2

    Single Agent

    The safety of capecitabine tablets as a single agent was evaluated in patients with metastatic breast cancer in Study SO14697 [see Clinical Studies (14.2 )]. Patients received capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle. The mean duration of treatment was 3.7 months.

    Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction or intercurrent illness occurred in 8% of patients.

    Most common adverse reactions (>30%) were lymphopenia, anemia, diarrhea, hand-and-foot syndrome, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and dermatitis.

    Table 7 summarizes the adverse reactions in Study SO14697.

    Table 7 Adverse Reactions (>10%) in Patients Who Received Capecitabine Tablets for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14697

    Adverse Reaction C apecitabine Tablets (n=162)
    All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%)
    Blood and Lymphatic System
    Lymphopenia 94 44 15
    Anemia 72 3 1
    Neutropenia 26 2 2
    Thrombocytopenia 24 3 1
    Gastrointestinal
    Diarrhea 57 12 3
    Nausea 53 4 –
    Vomiting 37 4 –
    Stomatitis 24 7 –
    Abdominal pain 20 4 –
    Constipation 15 1 –
    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
    Hand-and-foot syndrome 57 11 NA
    Dermatitis 37 1 –
    General
    Fatigue 41 8 –
    Pyrexia 12 1 –
    Metabolism and Nutrition
    Anorexia 23 3 –
    Hepatobiliary
    Hyperbilirubinemia 22 9 2
    Nervous System
    Paresthesia 21 1 –
    Eye
    Eye irritation 15 – –

    – = Not observed

    NA = Not Applicable

    Pooled SafetyPopulation

    Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients who received capecitabine tablets as a single agent are presented below.

    Blood & Lymphatic System: leukopenia, coagulation disorder, bone marrow depression, pancytopenia

    Cardiac: tachycardia, bradycardia, atrial fibrillation, myocarditis, edema

    Ear: vertigo

    Eye: conjunctivitis

    Gastrointestinal: abdominal distension, dysphagia, proctalgia, gastric ulcer, ileus, gastroenteritis, dyspepsia

    General: chest pain, influenza-like illness, hot flushes, pain, thirst, fibrosis, hemorrhage, edema, pain in limb

    Hepatobiliary: hepatic fibrosis, hepatitis, cholestatic hepatitis, abnormal liver function tests

    Immune System:drug hypersensitivity

    Infections: bronchitis, pneumonia, keratoconjunctivitis, sepsis, fungal infections

    Metabolism and Nutrition: cachexia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, dehydration

    Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue:myalgia, arthritis, muscleweakness

    Nervous System: insomnia, ataxia, tremor, dysphasia, encephalopathy, dysarthria, impaired balance, headache, dizziness

    Psychiatric: depression, confusion

    Renal and Urinary: renal impairment

    Respiratory, Mediastinal and Thoracic: cough, epistaxis, respiratory distress, dyspnea

    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue:nail disorder, sweating increased, photosensitivity reaction, skin ulceration, pruritus, radiation recall syndrome

    Vascular: hypotension, hypertension, lymphedema, pulmonary embolism

    Unresectable or Metastatic Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer

    The safety of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.3 )]. The safety of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was consistent with the known safety profile of capecitabine tablets.

    The safety of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of patients with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma who have not received prior treatment for metastatic disease as a component of a combination regimen was derived from the published

    literature [see Clinical Studies (14.3 )]. The safety of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of patients with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma was consistent with the known safety profile of capecitabine tablets.

    Pancreatic Cancer

    The safety of capecitabine tablets for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from the published literature [see Clinical Studies (14.4 )]. The safety of capecitabine tablets for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was consistent with the known safety profile of capecitabine tablets.

    Postmarketing Experience

    The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of capecitabine tablets. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

    Eye: lacrimal duct stenosis, corneal disorders including keratitis

    Hepatobiliary: hepatic failure

    Immune System Disorders: angioedema

    Nervous System: toxic leukoencephalopathy

    Renal & Urinary: acute renal failure secondary to dehydration including fatal outcome

    Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue: cutaneous lupus erythematosus, severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), persistent or severe PPES can eventually lead to loss of fingerprints


    Drug Interactions

    DRUG INTERACTIONS

    Effect of Other Drugs on Capecitabine Tablets

    Allopurinol

    Concomitant use with allopurinol may decrease concentration of capecitabine’s active metabolites [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3 )], which may decrease efficacy. Avoid concomitant use of allopurinol with capecitabine tablets.

    Leucovorin

    The concentration of fluorouracil is increased and its toxicity may be enhanced by leucovorin, folic acid, or folate analog products. Deaths from severe enterocolitis, diarrhea, and dehydration have been reported in elderly patients receiving weekly leucovorin and fluorouracil.

    Instruct patients not to take products containing folic acid or folate analog products unless directed to do so by their healthcare provider.

    Effect of Capecitabine Tablets on Other Drugs

    CYP2C9 Substrates

    Capecitabine tablets increased exposure of CYP2C9 substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ], which may increase the risk of adverse reactions related to these substrates. Closely monitor for adverse reactions of CYP2C9 substrates where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious adverse reactions when used concomitantly with capecitabine tablets (e.g., anticoagulants, antidiabetic drugs).

    Vitamin K Antagonists

    Capecitabine tablets increases exposure of vitamin K antagonist [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ], which may alter coagulation parameters and/or bleeding and could result in death [see Warning and Precautions (5.1 )]. These events may occur within days of treatment initiation and up to 1 month after discontinuation of capecitabine tablets.

    Monitor INR more frequently and refer to the prescribing information of oral vitamin K antagonist for dosage adjustment, as appropriate, when capecitabine tablets is used concomitantly with vitamin K antagonist.

    Phenytoin

    Capecitabine tablets may increases exposure of phenytoin, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions related to phenytoin. Closely monitor phenytoin levels and refer to the prescribing information of phenytoin for dosage adjustment, as appropriate, when capecitabine tablets is used concomitantly with phenytoin.

    Nephrotoxic Drugs

    Due of the additive pharmacologic effect, concomitant use of capecitabine tablets with other drugs known to cause renal toxicity may increase the risk of renal toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]. Closely monitor for signs of renal toxicity when capecitabine tablets is used concomitantly with nephrotoxic drugs (e.g. platinum salts, irinotecan, methotrexate, intravenous bisphosphonates).

    Description

    DESCRIPTION

    Capecitabine, USP is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. The  chemical  name is  5’-deoxy-5-fluoro-N-[(pentyloxy)  carbonyl]-cytidine  and  has  a molecular weight of 359.35. Capecitabine, USP has the following structural formula:

    Referenced Image

    Capecitabine, USP is a white to off-white crystalline powder. Freely soluble in methanol, soluble in acetonitrile and in ethanol. Sparingly soluble in water.

    Capecitabine tablets, USP are supplied as biconvex, oblong film-coated tablets for oral use. Each light peach-colored tablet contains 150 mg capecitabine and each peach-colored tablet contains 500 mg capecitabine. The inactive ingredients in capecitabine tablets, USP include: anhydrous lactose, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate and purified water. The peach or light peach film coating contains hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, talc, titanium dioxide, and synthetic yellow and red iron oxides.

    Pharmacology

    CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    Mechanism of Action

    Capecitabine is metabolized to fluorouracil in vivo. Both normal and tumor cells metabolize fluorouracil to 5-fluoro-2’-deoxyuridine monophosphate (FdUMP) and 5-fluorouridine triphosphate (FUTP). These metabolites cause cell injury by two different mechanisms. First, FdUMP and the folate cofactor, N 5-10 -methylenetetrahydrofolate, bind to thymidylate synthase (TS) to form a covalently bound ternary complex. This binding inhibits the formation of thymidylate from 2’-deoxyuridylate. Thymidylate is the necessary precursor of thymidine triphosphate, which is essential for the synthesis of DNA, so that a deficiency of this compound can inhibit cell division. Second, nuclear transcriptional enzymes can mistakenly incorporate FUTP in place of uridine triphosphate (UTP) during the synthesis of RNA. This metabolic error can interfere with RNA processing and protein synthesis.

    Pharmacodynamics

    Population-based exposure-effect analyses demonstrated a positive association between AUC of fluorouracil and grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia.

    Pharmacokinetics

    The AUC of capecitabine and its metabolite 5’-DFCR increases proportionally over a dosage range of 500 mg/m 2 /day to 3,500 mg/m 2 /day (0.2 to 1.4 times the approved recommended dosage). The AUC of capecitabine’s metabolites 5’-DFUR and fluorouracil increased greater than proportional to the dose. The interpatient variability in the Cmax and AUC of fluorouracil was greater than 85%.

    Absorption

    Following oral administration of capecitabine tablets 1,255 mg/m 2 orally twice daily (the recommended dosage when used as single agent), the median Tmax of capecitabine and its metabolite fluorouracil was approximately 1.5 hours and 2 hours, respectively.

    Effect of Food

    Following administration of a meal (breakfast medium-rich in fat and carbohydrates), the mean Cmax and AUC0-INF of capecitabine was decreased by 60% and 34%, respectively. The mean Cmax and AUC0-INF of fluorouracil were also decreased by 37 % and 12%, respectively. The Tmax of both capecitabine and fluorouracil was delayed by 1.5 hours.

    Distribution

    Plasma protein binding of capecitabine and its metabolites is less than 60% and is not concentration-dependent. Capecitabine was primarily bound to human albumin (approximately 35%).

    Following oral administration of capecitabine tablets 7 days before surgery in patients with colorectal cancer, the median ratio of concentration for the active metabolite fluorouracil in colorectal tumors to adjacent tissues was 2.9 (range: 0.9 to 8.0).

    Elimination

    The elimination half-lives of capecitabine and fluorouracil were approximately 0.75 hour.

    Metabolism

    Capecitabine undergoes metabolism by carboxylesterase and is hydrolyzed to 5’-DFCR. 5’- DFCR is subsequently converted to 5’-DFUR by cytidine deaminase. 5’-DFUR is then hydrolized by thymidine phosphorylase (dThdPase) enzymes to the active metabolite fluorouracil.

    Fluorouracil is subsequently metabolized by dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase to 5-fluoro-5, 6- dihydro-fluorouracil (FUH2). The pyrimidine ring of FUH2 is cleaved by dihydropyrimidinase to yield 5-fluoro-ureido-propionic acid (FUPA). Finally, FUPA is cleaved by β-ureido-propionase to α-fluoro-β-alanine (FBAL).

    Excretion

    Following administration of radiolabeled capecitabine, 96% of the administered capecitabine dose was recovered in urine (3% unchanged and 57% as metabolite FBAL) and 2.6% in feces.

    Specific Populations

    Following therapeutic doses of capecitabine tablets, no clinically meaningful difference in the pharmacokinetics of 5’-DFUR, fluorouracil or FBAL were observed based on sex (202 females and 303 males) and race (455 White, 22 Black, and 28 Other). No clinically meaningful difference on the pharmacokinetics of 5’-DFUR and fluorouracil were observed based on age (range: 27 to 86 years); however, the AUC of FBAL increased by 15% following a 20% increase in age.

    Racial or Ethnic Groups

    Following administration of capecitabine tablets 825 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for 14 days (0.66 times the recommended dosage), the Cmax and AUC of capecitabine decreased by 36% and 24%, respectively in Japanese patients (n=18) compared to White patients (n=22). The Cmax and AUC of FBAL decreased by approximately 25% and 34%, respectively in Japanese patients compared to White patients; however, the clinical significance of these differences is unknown. No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of 5’-DFCR, 5’-DFUR or fluorouracil were observed.

    Patients with Renal Impairment

    Table 8 Effect of Renal Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics of Capecitabine, 5’-DFUR, and FBAL

    Renal Impairment a Changes in AUC b
    Capecitabine 5’-DFUR c FBAL c 5-FU
    CLcr 30 to 50 mL/min Increased by 25% Increased by 42% Increased by 85% No relevant change
    CLcr <30 mL/min Increased by 25% Increased by 71% Increased by 258% Increased by 24%
    a Comparedto patients withCLcr >80 mL/min b Followingadministration of capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily;day 1 observations c Capecitabine metaboliteCLcr= Creatine Clearance, AUC= Area under the plasma concentration-time curve

    Patients with Hepatic Impairment

    AUC0-INF and Cmax of capecitabine’s active principle, fluorouracil, were not affected in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function. The AUC0-INF and Cmax of capecitabine increased by 60%. The effect of severe hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of capecitabine and its metabolites are unknown.

    Drug Interaction Studies

    Clinical Studies

    Effect of Capecitabine on Warfarin: In four patients with cancer, chronic administration of capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 twice daily with a single dose of warfarin 20 mg increased the mean AUC of S-warfarin by 57% and decreased its clearance by 37%. Baseline corrected AUC of INR in these 4 patients increased by 2.8-fold, and the maximum observed mean INR value was increased by 91%.

    Effect of Capecitabine on Celecoxib : Concomitant administration of multiple doses of capecitabine (capecitabine tablets 1,000 mg/m 2 twice daily for 14 days) increased celecoxib (sensitive CYP2C9 substrate) AUC by 28%, Cmax by 24% and Ctrough by 30%.

    Effect of Antacids on Capecitabine: When an aluminum hydroxide- and magnesium hydroxide- containing antacid was administered immediately after a capecitabine tablets dose of 1,250 mg/m 2 in patients with cancer, AUC and Cmax increased by 16% and 35%, respectively, for capecitabine and by 18% and 22%, respectively, for 5’-DFCR. No effect was observed on the other three major metabolites (5’-DFUR, fluorouracil, FBAL) of capecitabine tablets.

    Effect of Allopurinol on Capecitabine: Concomitant use with allopurinol may decrease conversion of capecitabine to the active metabolites, FdUMP and FUTP.

    Effect of Capecitabine on Docetaxel and Effect of Docetaxel on Capecitabine: capecitabine tablets had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel (Cmax and AUC) and docetaxel has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of capecitabine and the fluorouracil precursor 5’-DFUR.

    In Vitro Studies

    Cytochrome P450 (CYP) Enzymes: Capecitabine and its metabolites (5’-DFUR, 5’-DFCR, fluorouracil, and FBAL) did not inhibit CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP3A4, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, or CYP2E1 in vitro.

    Pharmacogenomics

    The DPYD gene encodes the enzyme DPD, which is responsible for the catabolism of >80% of fluorouracil. Approximately 3-5% of White populations have partial DPD deficiency and 0.2% of White populations have complete DPD deficiency, which may be due to certain genetic no function or decreased function variants in DPYD resulting in partial to complete or near complete absence of enzyme activity. DPD deficiency is estimated to be more prevalent in Black or African American populations compared to White populations. Insufficient information is available to estimate the prevalence of DPD deficiency in other populations.

    Patients who are homozygous or compound heterozygous for no functionDPYD variants (i.e., carry two DPYD variants that results in no DPD enzyme activity) or are compound heterozygous for a no function DPYD variant plus a decreased function DPYD variant have complete DPD deficiency and are at increased risk for acute early-onset of toxicity and serious life-threatening, or fatal adverse reactions with capecitabine tablets. Partial DPD deficiency can result from the presence of either two decreased functionDPYD variants or one normal function plus either a decreased function or a no functionDPYD variant. Patients with partial DPD deficiency may also be at an increased risk for toxicity from capecitabine tablets.

    Several DPYD variants observed with variable frequency across populations have beenassociated with reduced or no DPD activity, especially when present as homozygous or compound heterozygous variants. These include c.1905+1G>A (DPYD •2A), c.1679T>G (DPYD •13), c.2846A>T, c.1129-5923C>G (Haplotype B3), and c557A>G. DPYD•2A and DPYD•13 are no function variants, and c.2846A>T, c.1129-5923C>G, and c557A>G are decreased function variants. This is not a complete listing of all DPYD variants that may result in DPD deficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

    Nonclinical Toxicology

    NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

    Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    Adequate studies investigating the carcinogenic potential of capecitabine have not been conducted. Capecitabine was not mutagenic in vitro to bacteria (Ames test) or mammalian cells (Chinese hamster V79/HPRT gene mutation assay). Capecitabine was clastogenic in vitro to human peripheral blood lymphocytes but not clastogenic in vivo to mouse bone marrow (micronucleus test). Fluorouracil causes mutations in bacteria and yeast. Fluorouracil also causes chromosomal abnormalities in the mouse micronucleus test in vivo .

    In studies of fertility and general reproductive performance in female mice, oral capecitabine doses of 760 mg/kg/day (about 2,300 mg/m 2 /day) disturbed estrus and consequently caused a decrease in fertility. In mice that became pregnant, no fetuses survived this dose. The disturbance in estrus was reversible. In males, this dose caused degenerative changes in the testes, including decreases in the number of spermatocytes and spermatids. In separate pharmacokinetic studies, this dose in mice produced 5’-DFUR AUC values about 0.7 times the corresponding values in patients administered the recommended daily dose.

    Clinical Studies

    CLINICAL STUDIES

    Colorectal Cancer

    Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer

    Single Agent

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets was evaluated in X-ACT (NCT00009737), a multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Eligible patients were between 18 and 75 years of age with histologically-confirmed Dukes’ Stage C colon cancer with at least one positive lymph node and to have undergone (within 8 weeks prior to randomization) complete resection of the primary tumor without macroscopic or microscopic evidence of remaining tumor. Patients were also required to have no prior cytotoxic chemotherapy or immunotherapy (except steroids) and have an ECOG performance status of 0 or 1 (KPS >70%), ANC >1.5x10 9 /L, platelets >100x10 9 /L, serum creatinine <1.5 ULN, total bilirubin <1.5 ULN, AST/ALT <2.5 ULN and CEA within normal limits at time of randomization.

    Patients (n=1987) were randomized to capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle for a total of 8 cycles or fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2 and leucovorin 20 mg/m 2 intravenously on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle for a total of 6 cycles. The capecitabine tablets dose was reduced in patients with baseline CLcr of 30 to 50 mL/min. The major efficacy outcome measure was disease-free survival (DFS).

    The baseline demographics are shown in Table 9. The baseline characteristics were well- balanced between arms.

    Table 9 Baseline Demographics in X-ACT

    C apecitabine tablets (N=1004) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=983)
    Age (median, years) 62 63
    Range (25-80) (22-82)
    Sex
    Male, % 54 54
    Female, % 46 46
    ECOG Performance Status
    0, % 85 85
    1, % 15 15
    Staging – Primary Tumor
    PT1, % 1 0.6
    PT2, % 9 9
    PT3, % 76 76
    PT4, % 14 0
    Other, % 0.1 14
    Staging – Lymph Node
    pN1, % 69 71
    pN2, % 30 29
    Other, % 0.4 0.1

    Efficacy results are summarized in Table 10 and Figures 1 and 2. The median follow-up at the time of the analysis was 6.9 years. Because the upper 2-sided 95% confidence limit of hazard ratio for DFS was less than 1.20,capecitabine tablets was non-inferior to fluorouracil + leucovorin. The choice of the non-inferiority margin of 1.20 corresponds to the retention of approximately 75% of the fluorouracil + leucovorin effect on DFS. The hazard ratio for capecitabine tablets compared to fluorouracil + leucovorin with respect to overall survival was 0.86 (95% CI 0.74, 1.01). The 5- year overall survival rates were 71% for capecitabine tablets and 68% for fluorouracil + leucovorin.

    T able 10 Efficacy Results in X-ACT a (All Randomized Population)

    Efficacy Parameters C apecitabine tablets (N=1004) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=983)
    5-year Disease-free Survival Rate b 59% 55%
    Hazard Ratio 0.88
    (95% CI) (0.77, 1.01)
    p-value c p = 0.068

    a Approximately 93.4% had 5-year DFS information

    b Based on Kaplan-Meier estimates

    c Wald chi-square test

    Figure 1 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Disease-Free Survival in X-ACT (All Randomized Population)

    Referenced Image

    Figure 2 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Overall Survival in X-ACT (All Randomized Population)

    Referenced Image

    In Combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets in combination with oxaliplatin for the adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from studies in the published literature, including NO16968 [NCT00069121], a multicenter, open-label, randomized trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was disease free survival.

    Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets for the perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a component of chemoradiotherapy was derived from studies in the published literature, including Rektum-III [NCT01500993], a randomized, open-label, multicenter, non- inferiority trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival.

    Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets as a single agent was evaluated in two open-label, multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trials (Study SO14695 and Study SO14796). Eligible patients received first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. Patients were randomized to capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 twice daily for first 14 days of a 21-day cycle or leucovorin 20 mg/m 2 intravenously followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2 as an intravenous bolus on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle.

    The efficacy outcome measures were overall survival, time to progression and response rate (complete plus partial responses). Responses were defined by the World Health Organization criteria and submitted to a blinded independent review committee (IRC). Differences in assessments between the investigator and IRC were reconciled by the sponsor, blinded to treatment arm, according to a specified algorithm. Survival was assessed based on a non- inferiority analysis.

    The baseline demographics are shown in Table 11.

    Table 11 Baseline Demographics for Study SO14695 and Study SO14796

    Study SO14695 Study SO14796
    C apecitabine tablets (N=302) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=303) C apecitabine tablets (N=301) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=301)
    Age (median, years) 64 63 64 64
    Range (23-86) (24-87) (29-84) (36-86)
    Sex
    Male, % 60 65 57 57
    Female, % 40 35 43 43
    Karnofsky PS (median) 90 90 90 90
    Range (70-100) (70-100) (70-100) (70-100)
    Colon, % 74 77 66 65
    Rectum, % 26 23 34 35
    Prior radiation therapy, % 17 21 14 14
    Prior adjuvant fluorouracil, % 28 36 19 14

    Efficacy results for Study SO14695 and Study SO14796 are shown in Table 12 and Table 13.

    Table 12 Efficacy Results for First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (Study SO14695)

    C apecitabine tablets (N=302) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=303)
    OverallResponse Rate
    % (95% CI) 21 (16, 26) 11 (8, 15)
    p-value 0.0014
    Time to Progression
    Median, months (95%CI) 4.2 (3.9, 4.5) 4.3 (3.4, 5.0)
    Hazard Ratio 0.99
    95% CI (0.84, 1.17)
    Overall Survival
    Median, months (95%CI) 12.5 (10.5, 14.3) 13.4 (12.0, 14.7)
    Hazard Ratio 1.00
    95% CI (0.84, 1.18)

    Table 13 Efficacy Results for First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (Study SO14796)

    C apecitabine tablets (N=301) Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=301)
    OverallResponse Rate
    % (95% CI) 21 (16, 26) 14 (10, 18)
    p-value 0.027
    Time to Progression
    Median, months (95%CI) 4.5 (4.2, 5.5) 4.3 (3.4, 5.1)
    Hazard Ratio 0.97
    95% CI (0.82, 1.14)
    Overall Survival
    Median, months (95%CI) 13.3 (12.1, 14.8) 12.1 (11.1,14.1)
    Hazard Ratio 0.92
    95% CI (0.78, 1.09)

    Efficacy results of the pooled population from Study SO14695 and Study SO14796 are shown in Figure 3. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the percent of the survival effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin that was retained by capecitabine tablets. The estimate of the survival effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin was derived from a meta-analysis of ten randomized studies from the published literature comparing fluorouracil to regimens of fluorouracil + leucovorin that were similar to the control arms used in these Studies SO14695 and SO14796. The method for comparing the treatments was to examine the worst case (95% confidence upper bound) for the difference between fluorouracil + leucovorin and capecitabine tablets, and to show that loss of more than 50% of the fluorouracil + leucovorin survival effect was ruled out. It was demonstrated that the percent of the survival effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin maintained was at least 61% for Study SO14796 and 10% for Study SO14695. The pooled result is consistent with a retention of at least 50% of the effect of fluorouracil + leucovorin. It should be noted that these values for preserved effect are based on the upper bound of the fluorouracil + leucovorin vs capecitabine tablets difference.

    Figure 3 Kaplan-Meier Curve for Overall Survival of Pooled Data (Studies SO14695 and SO14796)

    Referenced Image

    In Combination with Oxaliplatin

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from studies in the published literature, including NO16966 [NCT00069095], a randomized, non-inferiority, 2x2 factorial trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was progression free survival.

    Metastatic Breast Cancer

    In Combination With Docetaxel

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets in combination with docetaxel was evaluated in an open-label, multicenter, randomized trial (Study SO14999). Eligible patients had metastatic breast cancer resistant to, or recurring during or after an anthracycline-containing therapy, or relapsing during or recurring within 2 years of completing an anthracycline-containing adjuvant therapy were enrolled. Patients were randomized to capecitabine tablets 1,250 mg/m 2 twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle and docetaxel 75 mg/m 2 as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of day of a 21- day cycle or docetaxel 100 mg/m 2 as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of a 21-day cycle. The efficacy outcome measures were time to disease progression, overall survival, and response rate.

    Patient demographics are provided in Table 14.

    Table 14 Baseline Demographics in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)

    C apecitabine tablets + Docetaxel (N=255) Docetaxel (N=256)
    Age (median, years) 52 51
    Karnofsky Performance Status (median) 90 90
    Site of Disease
    Lymph nodes, % 47 49
    Liver, % 45 48
    Bone, % 42 46
    Lung, % 37 39
    Skin, % 29 29
    Prior Chemotherapy
    Anthracycline 1 , % 100 100
    Fluorouracil, % 77 74
    Paclitaxel, % 10 9
    Resistance to an Anthracycline
    No resistance, % 7 7
    Progression on anthracycline therapy, % 26 29
    Stable disease after4 cycles of anthracycline therapy, % 16 16
    Relapsedwithin 2 yearsof completion of anthracycline-adjuvant therapy, % 31 29
    Experienced a brief response to anthracycline therapy, with subsequent progression while on therapy or within 12 months afterlast dose, % 20 20
    No. of Prior Chemotherapy Regimens for Treatment of Metastatic Disease
    0, % 35 31
    1, % 48 53
    2, % 17 15
    3, % 0 1

    1 Includes 10 patients in combination and 18 patients in single agent arms treated with an anthracenedione

    Efficacy results are shown in Table 15, Figure 4 and Figure 5.

    Table 15 Efficacy Results in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)

    Efficacy Parameter C apecitabine tablets + Docetaxel (N=255) Docetaxel (N=256)
    Time to Disease Progression
    Median, months 6.1 4.2
    95% CI (5.4, 6.5) (3.5, 4.5)
    Hazard Ratio 0.643
    p-value 0.0001
    Overall Survival
    Median, months 14.5 11.6
    95% CI (12.3, 16.3) (9.8, 12.7)
    Hazard Ratio 0.775
    p-value 0.0126
    Response Rate 1 32% 22%

    1 The response rate reported represents a reconciliation of the investigator and IRC assessments performed by the sponsor according to a predefined algorithm.

    Figure 4 Kaplan-Meier Estimates for Time to Disease Progression in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)

    Referenced Image

    Figure 5 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Survival in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)

    Referenced Image

    Single Agent

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets as a single agent was evaluated in an open-label single-arm trial (Study SO14697). Eligible patients had metastatic breast cancer resistant to both paclitaxel and an anthracycline-containing chemotherapy regimen or resistant to paclitaxel and for whom further anthracycline therapy is not indicated (e.g., patients who have received cumulative doses of 400 mg/m 2 of doxorubicin or doxorubicin equivalents). Resistance was defined as progressive disease while on treatment, with or without an initial response, or relapse within 6 months of completing treatment with an anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy regimen. Patients received capecitabine tablets 1,255 mg/m 2 orally twice daily for first 14-days of a 21-day treatment cycle. The major efficacy outcome measure was tumor response rate in patients with measurable disease, with response defined as a ≥50% decrease in sum of the products of the perpendicular diameters of bidimensionally measurable disease for at least 1 month.

    The baseline demographics are shown in Table 16.

    Table 16 Baseline Demographics in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14697)

    Patients With Measurable Disease (N=135) All Patients (N=162)
    Age (median, years) 55 56
    Karnofsky Performance Status 90 90
    No. Disease Sites
    1-2, % 32 37
    3-4, % 46 43
    >5, % 22 21
    Dominant Siteof Disease
    Visceral 1 , % 75 68
    Soft Tissue, % 22 22
    Bone, % 3 10
    Prior Chemotherapy
    Paclitaxel, % 100 100
    Anthracycline 2 , % 90 91
    Fluorouracil, % 81 82
    Resistance to Paclitaxel, % 76 77
    Resistance to an Anthracycline 2 , % 41 41
    Resistance to both Paclitaxel and an Anthracycline 2 , % 32 31

    Lung, pleura, liver, peritoneum

    2 Includes 2 patients treated with an anthracenedione

    Efficacy for Study SO14697 are shown in Table 17

    Table 17 Efficacy Results in Metastatic Breast Cancer (StudySO14697)

    EfficacyParameter Resistance to Both Paclitaxel and an Anthracycline (N=43)
    Response Rate 1 (95% CI) 25.6%(13.5, 41.2)
    Complete Response 0%
    Partial Response 1 11%
    Durationof Response 1 Median, months 2 (Range) 5.1 (2.1-7.7)

    1 Includes 2 patients treated with an anthracenedione

    2 From date of first response

    For the subgroup of 43 patients who were doubly resistant, the median time to progression was3.4 months and the median survival was 8.4 months. The objective response rate in this population was supported by a response rate of 18.5% (1 CR, 24 PRs) in the overall population of 135 patients with measurable disease, who were less resistant to chemotherapy (see Table 15). The median time to progression was 3.0 months and the median survival was 10.1 months.

    Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets for treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from studies in the published literature. capecitabine tablets was evaluated in REAL- 2, a randomized non-inferiority, 2x2 factorial trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival, and an additional randomized trial conducted by the North Central Cancer Treatment Group, where the major efficacy outcome measure was objective response rate.

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets for the treatment of adults with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma who have not received prior treatment for metastatic disease as a component of a combination regimen was derived from studies in the published literature. capecitabine tablets was evaluated in the ToGA trial [NCT01041404], an open-label, multicenter, randomized trial where the primary efficacy measure was overall survival.

    Pancreatic Cancer

    The efficacy of capecitabine tablets for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen was derived from a study in the published literature. capecitabine tablets was evaluated in ESPAC-4 trial, a two-group, open-label, multicenter, randomized trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival.

    Referenced Image

    How Supplied/Storage & Handling

    HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

    150 mg

    Capecitabine tablets USP, 150 mg are light peach colored, biconvex, oblong film-coated tablets with “150” debossed on one side and “RDY” on other side and are supplied in bottles of 60’s and 500’s.

    Bottles of 60’s                                    NDC 55111-496-60

    Bottles of 500’s                                  NDC 55111-496-05

    500 mg

    Capecitabine tablets USP, 500 mg are peach colored, biconvex, oblong tablets with “500” debossing on one side and “RDY” on other side and are supplied in bottles of 120’s and 500’s.

    Bottles of 120                                     NDC 55111-497-04

    Bottles of 500                                     NDC 55111-497-05

    Storage and Handling

    Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. KEEP TIGHTLY CLOSED.

    Capecitabine tablets is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures. 1

    Mechanism of Action

    Mechanism of Action

    Capecitabine is metabolized to fluorouracil in vivo. Both normal and tumor cells metabolize fluorouracil to 5-fluoro-2’-deoxyuridine monophosphate (FdUMP) and 5-fluorouridine triphosphate (FUTP). These metabolites cause cell injury by two different mechanisms. First, FdUMP and the folate cofactor, N 5-10 -methylenetetrahydrofolate, bind to thymidylate synthase (TS) to form a covalently bound ternary complex. This binding inhibits the formation of thymidylate from 2’-deoxyuridylate. Thymidylate is the necessary precursor of thymidine triphosphate, which is essential for the synthesis of DNA, so that a deficiency of this compound can inhibit cell division. Second, nuclear transcriptional enzymes can mistakenly incorporate FUTP in place of uridine triphosphate (UTP) during the synthesis of RNA. This metabolic error can interfere with RNA processing and protein synthesis.

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