Like all chemotherapy treatments, XELODA has certain side effects. For some people, milder
side effects may suddenly become severe. However, the side effects of XELODA can be
controlled. In clinical studies, XELODA was generally tolerated well by patients. The most
common side effects with XELODA are:
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomatitis (mouth and throat sores), abdominal (stomach area) pain, upset stomach, constipation, loss of appetite, and dehydration (excessive loss of water from the body). These side effects are more common in patients who are 80 or more years of age
- Hand-and-Foot Syndrome (pain, swelling or redness of your hands or feet that prevents normal activity), dry, itchy or discolored skin, rash, nail problems, and hair loss
- Tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, fever, pain (such as chest, back, joint, and muscle), difficulty sleeping, and taste problems
If you take XELODA in combination with
Taxotere® (docetaxel)
you may experience some different side effects. Please ask your doctor about possible side
effects that may be caused by taking XELODA with Taxotere
®.
It is helpful to keep track of side effects you have, when they occur, and how
much they affect your day. This way your doctor can give you suggestions for
controlling them or make adjustments to your treatment plan if needed. Be sure
to report side effects right away to a member of your treatment team.
Side Effect Simon
This interactive tool will help you learn more about how XELODA might affect
different areas of your body.
When to Contact Your Doctor Right Away
Stop taking XELODA immediately and contact your doctor if any of these symptoms occur.
- Diarrhea: If you have more than 4 bowel movements each day or any diarrhea at night
- Vomiting (being sick): If you vomit more than once in a 24-hour period
- Nausea: If you lose your appetite and the amount you eat each day is much less than usual
- Stomatitis (mouth sores): If you have pain, redness, swelling or sores in your mouth
- Hand-foot skin reaction: If you have pain, swelling, or redness in your hands or feet
- Fever or infection: If you have a temperature of 100.5°F (38°C) or greater or show any other signs of infection such as swelling or irritation
If caught early, most side effects usually improve after you stop taking
XELODA. If they do not improve within 2 to 3 days, call your doctor again. After
side effects have improved, your doctor will tell you whether to start taking
XELODA again and, if so, what dose to use.