Capecitabine - Side Effects
I went threw 6 rounds of chemotherapy and 2 rounds of Keytruda. The Keytruda was damaging my lungs so I was not allowed to take it anymore. After having several rounds of the same chemo I developed a allergy to it which caused me to end up in the hospital. I will be finishing radiation on July 3rd and starting Capecitabine on the 14th. What side effects are people having and what should I be prepared for?
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@chubbard97 Sorry to hear Keytruda was hard on you. I have been on xeloda for 3 years 7/7 schedule. Over the years I have been on between 2,000-3,000 mg per day. Compared to other treatments I have had I find it very doable. Sometimes I have a mild nausea episode for a couple minutes and deal with ongoing HFS. Minimizing folic acid intake does really help with HFS. Using various creams on hands and feet help keep things in check. Go on over the All about Xeloda thread and check out all the great info on there too. Well wishes your way as you start Xeloda.
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hello. Long time lurker, first time poster. Originally diagnosed on 2012. mastectomy, surgery (right breast) and radiation. NED.
Fast forward to September 2024 - breast cancer (left) with lymph nodes and chest wall diagnosis. Was put on kisquali/letrazole - worked for a year then just stopped. Now on Capecitabine since August 2025. So far, touch wood, no serious side effects. This cycle I have started to develop very tender fingertips which have slightly started to split. Pharmacist/onc told me to use Voltaire’s and udderly smooth. I have but this cycle fingertips are definitely worse. Anyone else experience this and any other treatments work for you other than those I have mentioned?
This site was my sanity in 2012
hate meeting everyone this way, but grateful for everyone here ❤️🤗Michele
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Hi @tazzy24 - Welcome! We’re so glad you posted, though sorry you’re dealing with this again.
Many members on capecitabine have shared similar fingertip issues, so you’re definitely not alone. You might find our main-site page helpful: Xeloda: What to Expect, Side Effects, and More.
We hate the reason you’re back, Michele, but we’re grateful you’re here.
Sincerely,
The Mods
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@tazzy24 Hi Michele it's nice to meet you and I'm sorry you dealing with the finger issues. I have been on Xeloda for a couple years now and it's keeping my MTNBC quiet! I am so thankful to still be on it but my hands and feet have been through it! But as I tell my MO I'm willing to"suffer" for stable! I have used many many creams you will have to find what works for you. I also limit folic acid foods.
Neutrogena Norwegian Hand Cream, Udderly Smooth, , Diclofenac topical Gel, Bag Balm. I also at times lube up my hands and feet and wear gloves and socks to let it soak in. Anyhow as Mods said check out their page and also the All about Xeloda thread. It's a great informative group who also know how to manage side effects well.
Best wishes,Andrea
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hi Andrea. Nice to meet you. I use udderly smooth, also started to use Vaseline at night with cotton gloves on, so far so good. Like you I am willing to suffer this very mild side effect if keeps the tumours down. I am still relatively new on it so just a wait and see how effective it could be.
michele.0
