capecitabine
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use CAPECITABINE TABLETS safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for CAPECITABINE TABLETS. CAPECITABINE tablets, for oral use Initial U.S. Approval: 1998
88c5af84-900a-4372-b056-bfea70c129cf
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May 26, 2025
BluePoint Laboratories
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capecitabine
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INGREDIENTS (11)
capecitabine
Product Details
FDA regulatory identification and product classification information
FDA Identifiers
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INGREDIENTS (11)
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PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
Capecitabine Tablets USP150mg-60's count Container Label
Capecitabine-500mg-60's count Container Label
BOXED WARNING SECTION
WARNING: INCREASED RISK OF BLEEDING WITH CONCOMITANT USE OF VITAMIN K
ANTAGONISTS
INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE
1.1 Colorectal Cancer
Capecitabine tablet is 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.
1.2 Breast Cancer
Capecitabine tablet is indicated for the:
• treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer as a single
agent if an anthracycline-or taxane-containing 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.
1.3 Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
Capecitabine tablet is 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.
1.4 Pancreatic Cancer
Capecitabine tablet is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen.
Capecitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor indicated for:
Colorectal Cancer
• adjuvant treatment of patients with Stage III colon cancer as a single agent
or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. ( 1.1)
• perioperative treatment of adults with locally advanced rectal cancer as a
component of chemoradiotherapy. ( 1.1)
• treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer as a
single agent or as a component of a combination chemotherapy regimen. ( 1.1)
Breast Cancer
• treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer as a single
agent if an anthracycline-or taxane-containing chemotherapy is not indicated.
( 1.2)
• treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer in
combination with docetaxel after disease progression on prior anthracycline-
containing chemotherapy. ( 1.2)
Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
• treatment of adults with unresectable or metastatic gastric, esophageal, or
gastroesophageal junction cancer as a component of a combination chemotherapy
regimen. ( 1.3)
• 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. ( 1.3)
Pancreatic Cancer
• adjuvant treatment of adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a component
of a combination chemotherapy regimen. ( 1.4)
CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
Capecitabine is contraindicated in patients with history of severe hypersensitivity reaction to fluorouracil or capecitabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to fluorouracil or capecitabine ( 4)
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION
5 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 capecitabine 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 was introduced. These events occurred within several days and up
to several months after initiating capecitabine and, in a few cases, within 1
month after stopping capecitabine. 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)].
5.2 Serious Adverse Reactions from Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD)
Deficiency
Patients with certain homozygous or compound heterozygous variants in the
DPYDgene 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 (e.g.,
mucositis, diarrhea, neutropenia, and neurotoxicity). Patients with partial
DPD activity (partial DPD deficiency) may also have increased risk of serious,
including fatal, adverse reactions.
Capecitabine is not recommended for use in patients known to have certain
homozygous or compound heterozygous DPYDvariants that result in complete DPD
deficiency.
Withhold or permanently discontinue capecitabine based on clinical assessment
of the onset, duration, and severity of the observed adverse reactions in
patients with evidence of acute early-onset or unusually severe reactions,
which may indicate complete DPD deficiency. No capecitabine dose has been
proven safe for patients with complete DPD deficiency. There are insufficient
data to recommend a specific dose in patients with partial DPD deficiency.
Consider testing for genetic variants of DPYDprior to initiating capecitabine
to reduce the risk of serious adverse reactions if the patient’s clinical
status permits and based on clinical judgement [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)]. Serious adverse reactions may still occur even if no DPYDvariants are
identified.
An FDA-authorized test for the detection of genetic variants of DPYDto
identify patients at risk of serious adverse reactions due to increased
systemic exposure to capecitabine is not currently available. Currently
available tests used to identify DPYDvariants may vary in accuracy and design
(e.g., which DPYDvariant(s) they identify).
5.3 Cardiotoxicity
Cardiotoxicity can occur with capecitabine. Myocardial infarction/ischemia,
angina, dysrhythmias, cardiac arrest, cardiac failure, sudden death,
electrocardiographic changes, and cardiomyopathy have been reported with
capecitabine. These adverse reactions may be more common in patients with a
prior history of coronary artery disease.
Withhold capecitabine for cardiotoxicity as appropriate [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5)] . The safety of resumption of capecitabine in patients
with cardiotoxicity that has resolved have not been established.
5.4 Diarrhea
Diarrhea, sometimes severe, can occur with capecitabine. In 875 patients with
metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine 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 and then resume at same or reduced dose or permanently
discontinue based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
5.5 Dehydration
Dehydration can occur with capecitabine. Patients with anorexia, asthenia, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea may be at an increased risk of developing dehydration with capecitabine. Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine. Monitor hydration status and kidney function at baseline and as clinically indicated. Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
5.6 Renal Toxicity
Serious renal failure, sometimes fatal, can occur with capecitabine. Renal impairment or coadministration of capecitabine 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. Withhold capecitabine 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 [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
Monitor for new or worsening serious skin reactions. Permanently discontinue
capecitabine for severe cutaneous adverse reactions.
5.8 Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (PPES) can occur with capecitabine.
In patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received
capecitabine 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 and then resume at same or reduced dose or permanently
discontinue based on severity and occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
5.9 Myelosuppression
Myelosuppression can occur with capecitabine.
In the 875 patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received
capecitabine 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
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
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
and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on
occurrence [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
5.10 Hyperbilirubinemia
Hyperbilirubinemia can occur with capecitabine. In the 875 patients with
metastatic breast or colorectal cancer who received capecitabine 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 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. 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 received capecitabine
with docetaxel, grade 3 hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 7% and grade 4
hyperbilirubinemia occurred in 2%.
Withhold capecitabine 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)].
5.11 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Based on findings from animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of
action, capecitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant
woman. Insufficient data is available on capecitabine 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 2twice 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 and for 6 months following the last dose. Advise males with
female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception
during treatment with capecitabine 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 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.
• Serious Adverse Reactions from Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD)
Deficiency:Patients with certain homozygous or compound heterozygous variants
in the DPYDgene are at increased risk for acute early-onset toxicity and
serious, including fatal, adverse reactions due to capecitabine (e.g.,
mucositis, diarrhea, neutropenia, and neurotoxicity). Capecitabine is not
recommended for use in patients known to have certain homozygous or compound
heterozygous DPYDvariants that result in complete absence of DPD activity.
Withhold or permanently discontinue based on clinical assessment. No
capecitabine dose has been proven safe in patients with complete absence of
DPD activity. ( 5.2)
• Cardiotoxicity:May be more common in patients with a prior history of
coronary artery disease. Withhold capecitabine for cardiotoxicity as
appropriate. The safety of resumption of capecitabine in patients with
cardiotoxicity that has resolved has not been established. ( 2.5, 5.3)
• Diarrhea:Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or
permanently discontinue, based on severity and occurrence. ( 2.5, 5.4)
• Dehydration:Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine. Monitor
hydration status and kidney function at baseline and as clinically indicated.
Withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently
discontinue, based on severity and occurrence. ( 2.5, 5.5)
• Renal Toxicity:Monitor renal function at baseline and as clinically
indicated. Optimize hydration before starting capecitabine. Withhold
capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently
discontinue, based on severity and occurrence. ( 2.5, 5.6)
• Serious Skin Toxicities:Monitor for new or worsening serious skin reactions.
Permanently discontinue capecitabine in patients who experience a severe
cutaneous adverse reaction. ( 5.7)
• Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome:Withhold capecitabine then resume
at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue, based on severity and
occurrence. ( 2.5, 5.8)
• Myelosuppression:Monitor complete blood count at baseline and before each
cycle. Capecitabine is not recommended in patients with baseline neutrophil
counts <1.5 x 10 9/L or platelet counts <100 x 10 9/L. For grade 3 or 4
myelosuppression, withhold capecitabine and then resume at same or reduced
dose, or permanently discontinue, based on occurrence. ( 2.5, 5.9)
• Hyperbilirubinemia:Patients with Grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia may resume
treatment once the event is Grade 2 or less ( <3 x ULN), using the percent of
current dose as shown in column 3 of Table 1 ( 2.5, 5.10)
• Embryo-Fetal Toxicity:Can cause fetal harm. Advise patients of the potential
risk to a fetus and to use effective contraception. ( 5.11, 8.1, 8.3)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION
6 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)]
6.1 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 as a single agent was evaluated in patients with
Stage III colon cancer in X-ACT [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] . Patients
received capecitabine 1,250 mg/m 2orally twice daily for the first 14 days of
a 21-day cycle (N=995) or leucovorin 20 mg/m 2intravenously followed by
fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2as an intravenous bolus on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day
cycle (N=974). Among patients who received capecitabine, the median duration
of treatment was 5.4 months.
Deaths due to all causes occurred in 0.8% of patients who received
capecitabine 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.
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 for Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer in X-ACT
Adverse Reaction |
Capecitabine |
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=974) | ||
All Grades (%) |
Grade 3 or 4 (%) |
All Grades (%) |
Grade 3 or 4 (%) | |
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue | ||||
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome |
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:dizziness, dysgeusia, headache
Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue:rash, alopecia, erythema
Table 3 Grade 3 or 4 Laboratory Abnormalities (>1%) in Patients Who Received
Capecitabine as a Single Agent for Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer in
X-ACT
Laboratory Abnormality |
Capecitabine |
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 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 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 as a single agent, with the
exception of an increased incidence of neurosensory toxicity.
Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer
The safety of capecitabine 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 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 as a single agent, with the exception of an
increased incidence of diarrhea.
Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Single Agent
The safety of capecitabine 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 1,250 mg/m 2orally
twice a day for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle (N=596) or leucovorin 20
mg/m 2intravenously followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2as an intravenous bolus
on days 1 to 5 of each 28-day cycle (N=593). Among the patients who received
capecitabine, the median duration of treatment was 4.6 months.
Deaths due to all causes occurred in 8% of patients who received capecitabine
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.
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 in Pooled Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Population (Study SO14695
and Study SO14796)
Adverse Reaction |
Capecitabine (N=596) |
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin | ||||
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 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 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 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 in combination with docetaxel was evaluated in patients with metastatic breast cancer in Study SO14999 [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] . Patients received capecitabine 1,250 mg/m 2orally twice daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle with docetaxel 75 mg/m 2as 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of each 21-day cycle for at least 6 weeks or docetaxel 100 mg/m 2as a 1-hour intravenous infusion on day 1 of each 21-day cycle for at least 6 weeks. Among patients who received capecitabine, the mean duration of treatment was 4.2 months.
Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 26% of patients who received capecitabine. Dosage interruptions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 79% of patients who received capecitabine 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 with Docetaxel for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14999
Adverse Reaction |
Capecitabine with Docetaxel (N=251) |
Docetaxel | ||||
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 with Docetaxel for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14999
Laboratory Abnormality |
Capecitabine with Docetaxel (N=251) |
Docetaxel | ||||
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 as a single agent was evaluated in patients with
metastatic breast cancer in Study SO14697 [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].
Patients received capecitabine 1,250 mg/m 2orally 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 for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Study SO14697
Adverse Reaction |
Capecitabine | ||
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 Safety Population
Clinically relevant adverse reactions in <10% of patients who received
capecitabine 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, muscle weakness
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 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 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.
The safety of capecitabine 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 for the treatment of
patients with HER2-overexpressing metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal
junction adenocarcinoma was consistent with the known safety profile of
capecitabine.
Pancreatic Cancer
The safety of capecitabine 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 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.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use
of capecitabine. 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
• Most common adverse reactions in patients who received capecitabine as a single agent for the adjuvant treatment for colon cancer (>30%) were palmar- plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, diarrhea, and nausea. ( 6.1)
• Most common adverse reactions (>30%) in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent were anemia, diarrhea, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, hyperbilirubinemia, nausea, fatigue, and abdominal pain. ( 6.1)
• Most common adverse reactions ( >30%) in patients with metastatic breast cancer who received capecitabine with docetaxel were diarrhea, stomatitis, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, nausea, alopecia, vomiting, edema, and abdominal pain. ( 6.1)
• Most common adverse reactions (>30%) in patients with metastatic breast cancer who received capecitabine as a single agent were lymphopenia, anemia, diarrhea, hand-and-foot syndrome, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and dermatitis. ( 6.1)
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hetero Labs limited at 1-866-495-1995 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
7.1 Effect of Other Drugs on Capecitabine
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.
LeucovorinThe 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.
7.2 Effect of Capecitabine on Other Drugs
CYP2C9 Substrates
Capecitabine 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 (e.g., anticoagulants,
antidiabetic drugs).
Vitamin K Antagonists
Capecitabine 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.
Monitor INR more frequently and refer to the prescribing information of oral
vitamin K antagonist for dosage adjustment, as appropriate, when capecitabine
is used concomitantly with vitamin K antagonist.
Phenytoin
Capecitabine 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 is used concomitantly with phenytoin.
7.3 Nephrotoxic Drugs
Due of the additive pharmacologic effect, concomitant use of capecitabine 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 is used concomitantly with nephrotoxic drugs (e.g. platinum salts, irinotecan, methotrexate, intravenous bisphosphonates).
• Allopurinol:Avoid concomitant use of allopurinol with capecitabine. ( 7.1)
• Leucovorin:Closely monitor for toxicities when capecitabine is
coadministered with leucovorin. ( 7.1)
• CYP2C9 substrates: Closely monitor for adverse reactions when CYP2C9
substrates are coadministered with capecitabine. ( 7.2)
• Vitamin K antagonists: Monitor INR more frequently and dose adjust oral
vitamin K antagonist as appropriate
• Phenytoin:Closely monitor phenytoin levels in patients taking capecitabine
concomitantly with phenytoin and adjust the phenytoin dose as appropriate. (
7.2)
• Nephrotoxic drugs:Closely monitor for signs of renal toxicity when
capecitabine is used concomitantly with nephrotoxic drugs. ( 7.3)
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Based on findings in animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action
[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)] , capecitabine can cause fetal harm when
administered to a pregnant woman. Available human data with capecitabine 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 2twice
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 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 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.
Contraception
Females
Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during
treatment with capecitabine 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 and for 3 months after the last dose [seeNonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
Infertility
Based on animal studies, capecitabine may impair fertility in females and
males of reproductive potential [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
8.4 Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of capecitabine 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 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%).
8.5 Geriatric Use
Of 7938 patients with colorectal cancer who were treated with capecitabine,
33% were older than 65 years. Of the 4536 patients with metastatic breast
cancer who were treated with capecitabine, 18% were older than 65 years.
Of 1951 patients with gastric, esophageal, or gastrointestinal junction cancer
who were treated with capecitabine, 26% were older than 65 years.
Of 364 patients with pancreatic cancer who received adjuvant treatment with
capecitabine, 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 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)].
8.6 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 in patients with CLcr <30 mL/min, and a dosage has not been established in those patients. If no treatment alternative exists, capecitabine 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.
8.7 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 is unknown [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Monitor patients with hepatic impairment more frequently for adverse reactions.
• LactationAdvise not to breastfeed. ( 8.2)
• Hepatic ImpairmentMonitor patients with hepatic impairment more frequently
for adverse reactions. ( 8.7)
OVERDOSAGE SECTION
10 OVERDOSAGE
Administer uridine triacetate within 96 hours for management of capecitabine
overdose.
Although no clinical experience using dialysis as a treatment for capecitabine
overdose has been reported, dialysis may be of benefit in reducing circulating
concentrations of 5’-DFUR, a low– molecular-weight metabolite of the parent
compound.
DESCRIPTION SECTION
11 DESCRIPTION
Capecitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. The chemical name is 5’-deoxy-5-fluoro-N[(pentyloxy) carbonyl]-cytidine and has a molecular formula of C 15H 22FN 3O 6and a molecular weight of 359.35. Capecitabine has the following structural formula:
Capecitabine USP is a white or almost white powder. Capecitabine USP is freely
soluble in anhydrous ethanol, sparingly soluble in water and practically
insoluble in heptane.
Capecitabine tablets USP are supplied as biconvex, film-coated tablets for
oral administration. Each light peach-colored tablet contains 150 mg
capecitabine USP and each peach-colored tablet contains 500 mg capecitabine
USP. The inactive ingredients in capecitabine tablets USP include:
croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, lactose anhydrous, magnesium stearate and
microcrystalline cellulose. The peach or light peach film coating contains
hypromellose, iron oxide red, iron oxide yellow, talc and titanium dioxide.
DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Recommended Dosage for Colorectal Cancer
Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer
Single Agent
The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablet is 1,250 mg/m 2orally 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 tablet is 1,000 mg/m 2orally 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 2administered 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 2orally twice daily when
administered with concomitant radiation therapy and 1,250 mg/m 2orally 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 tablet is 1,250 mg/m 2orally 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 tablet is 1,000 mg/m 2orally 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 2administered
intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
Refer to the Prescribing Information for oxaliplatin for additional dosing
information as appropriate.
2.2 Recommended Dosage for Breast Cancer
Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer
Single Agent
The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablet is 1,000 mg/m 2or 1,250 mg/m
2orally 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 tablet based on patient risk factors and adverse
reactions.
In Combination with Docetaxel
The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablet is 1,000 mg/m 2or 1,250 mg/m
2orally 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
2administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
Refer to the Prescribing Information for docetaxel for additional dosing
information as appropriate.
2.3 Recommended Dosage for Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal
Junction Cancer
The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablet for unresectable or metastatic
gastric, esophageal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer is:
• 625 mg/m 2orally 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 2or 1,000 mg/m 2orally 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 2administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
Individualize the dose and dosing schedule of capecitabine tablet based on
patient risk factors and adverse reactions.
The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablet for HER2-overexpressing
metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma is 1,000 mg/m
2orally 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.
2.4 Recommended Dosage for Pancreatic Cancer
The recommended dosage of capecitabine tablet is 830 mg/m 2orally 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 2administered intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 of
each cycle.
Refer to Prescribing Information for gemcitabine for additional dosing
information as appropriate.
2.5 Dosage Modifications for Adverse Reactions
Monitor patients for adverse reactions and modify dosages of capecitabine
tablet as described in Table 1. Do not replace missed doses of capecitabine
tablet; instead resume capecitabine tablet with the next planned dosage.
When capecitabine tablet is administered with docetaxel, withhold capecitabine
tablet and docetaxel until the requirements for resuming both capecitabine
tablet 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 Same or Reduced Dose (Percent of 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 |
Withhold until 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)].
2.6 Dosage Modification For Renal Impairment
Reduce the dose of capecitabine tablet 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)].
2.7 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. 1
Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer
• Single agent: 1,250 mg/m 2twice daily orally for the first 14 days of each
21-day cycle for a maximum of 8 cycles. ( 2.1) In combination with
Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens: 1,000 mg/m 2orally 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 2administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle. (
2.1)
Perioperative Treatment of Rectal Cancer
• With Concomitant Radiation Therapy: 825 mg/m 2orally twice daily ( 2.1)
• Without Radiation Therapy: 1,250 mg/m 2orally twice daily ( 2.1)
Unresectable or Metastatic Colorectal Cancer:
• Single agent: 1,250 mg/m 2twice daily orally for the first 14 days of each
21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. ( 2.1)
• In Combination with Oxaliplatin: 1,000 mg/m 2orally 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 2administered intravenously
on day 1 of each cycle. ( 2.1)
Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer:
• Single agent: 1,000 mg/m 2or 1,250 mg/m 2twice daily orally for the first 14
days of each 21-day cycle until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
( 2.2)
• In combination with docetaxel: 1,000 mg/m 2or 1,250 mg/m 2orally twice daily
for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle, until disease progression or
unacceptable toxicity in combination with docetaxel at 75 mg/m 2administered
intravenously on day 1 of each cycle ( 2.2)
Unresectable or Metastatic Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction
Cancer
• 625 mg/m 2orally twice daily on days 1 to 21 of each 21-day cycle for a
maximum of 8 cycles in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy. (
2.3) OR
• 850 mg/m 2or 1,000 mg/m 2orally 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 2administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
( 2.3)
HER2-overexpressing metastatic adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal
junction or stomach
• 1,000 mg/m 2orally twice daily for the first 14 days of each 21-day cycle
until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity in combination with
cisplatin and trastuzumab. ( 2.3)
Pancreatic cancer
• 830 mg/m 2orally twice daily for the first 21 days of each 28-day cycle for
maximum of 6 cycles in combination with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m 2administered
intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 of each cycle. ( 2.4)
Refer to Sections 2.5 and 2.6 for information related to dosage modifications
for adverse reactions and renal impairment ( 2.5and 2.6).
DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS SECTION
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
Tablets, film-coated:
• Capecitabine tablets, USP 150 mg are light peach colored, capsule shaped,
biconvex, film coated tablets debossed with ‘6’ on one side and ‘H’ on the
other side.
• Capecitabine tablets, USP 500 mg are peach colored, oval shaped, biconvex,
film coated tablets debossed with ‘3’ on one side and ‘H’ on the other side.
Tablets: 150 mg and 500 mg ( 3)
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 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.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
Population-based exposure-effect analyses demonstrated a positive association between AUC of fluorouracil and grade 3-4 hyperbilirubinemia.
12.3 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 C maxand AUC of fluorouracil was greater than
85%.
Absorption
Following oral administration of capecitabine 1,255 mg/m 2orally twice daily
(the recommended dosage when used as single agent), the median T maxof
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 C maxand AUC 0-INFof capecitabine was decreased by
60% and 34%, respectively. The mean C maxand AUC 0-INFof fluorouracil were
also decreased by 37 % and 12%, respectively. The T maxof 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 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 FUH 2is
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, 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 825 mg/m 2orally twice daily for 14
days (0.66 times the recommended dosage), the C maxand AUC of capecitabine
decreased by 36% and 24%, respectively in Japanese patients (n=18) compared to
White patients (n=22). The C maxand 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% |
aCompared to patients with CLcr >80 mL/min |
Patients with Hepatic Impairment
AUC 0-INFand C maxof capecitabine’s active principle, fluorouracil, were not
affected in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment compared to
patients with normal hepatic function. The AUC 0-INFand C maxof 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 1,250 mg/m 2twice 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 1,000 mg/m 2twice daily for 14 days)
increased celecoxib (sensitive CYP2C9 substrate) AUC by 28%, C maxby 24% and C
troughby 30%.
Effect of Antacids on Capecitabine:When an aluminum hydroxide- and magnesium
hydroxide-containing antacid was administered immediately after a capecitabine
dose of 1,250 mg/m 2in patients with cancer, AUC and C maxincreased 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.
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 had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel
(C maxand AUC) and docetaxel has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of
capecitabine and the fluorouracil precursor 5’-DFUR.
In VitroStudies
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.
12.5 Pharmacogenomics
The DPYDgene 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 DPYDresulting 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 function
DPYDvariants (i.e., carry two no function DPYDvariants) or are compound
heterozygous for a no function DPYDvariant plus a decreased function
DPYDvariant have complete DPD deficiency and are at increased risk for acute
early-onset of toxicity and serious life-threatening, or fatal adverse
reactions due to increased systemic exposure to capecitabine. Partial DPD
deficiency can result from the presence of either two decreased function
DPYDvariants or one normal function plus either a decreased function or a no
function DPYDvariant. Patients with partial DPD deficiency may also be at an
increased risk for toxicity from capecitabine.
Four DPYDvariants have been associated with impaired DPD activity in White
populations, especially when present as homozygous or compound heterozygous
variants: c.1905+1G>A ( DPYD2A), c.1679T>G ( DPYD13), c.2846A>T, and
c.1129-5923C>G (Haplotype B3). DPYD2A and DPYD13 are no function variants,
and c.2846A>T and c.1129-5923C>G are decreased function variants. The
decreased function DPYDvariant c.557A>G is observed in individuals of African
ancestry. This is not a complete listing of all DPYDvariants that may result
in DPD deficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Adequate studies investigating the carcinogenic potential of capecitabine have
not been conducted. Capecitabine was not mutagenic in vitroto bacteria (Ames
test) or mammalian cells (Chinese hamster V79/HPRT gene mutation assay).
Capecitabine was clastogenic in vitroto human peripheral blood lymphocytes but
not clastogenic in vivoto 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 SECTION
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
14.1 Colorectal Cancer
Adjuvant Treatment of Colon Cancer
Single Agent
The efficacy of capecitabine 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 1,250 mg/m 2orally twice
daily for the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle for a total of 8 cycles or
fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2and leucovorin 20 mg/m 2intravenously on days 1 to 5 of
each 28-day cycle for a total of 6 cycles. The capecitabine 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
Capecitabine |
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 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 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 and 68% for fluorouracil + leucovorin.
Table 10 Efficacy Results in X-ACTa (All Randomized Population)
Efficacy Parameters |
Capecitabine (N=1004) |
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=983) |
5-year Disease-free Survival Rateb |
59% |
55% |
Hazard Ratio |
0.88 | |
(95% CI) |
(0.77, 1.01) | |
p-value c |
p = 0.068 |
aApproximately 93.4% had 5-year DFS information
bBased on Kaplan-Meier estimates
cWald chi-square test
Figure 1 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Disease-Free Survival in X-ACT (All Randomized Population)
Figure 2 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Overall Survival in X-ACT (All Randomized Population)
In Combination with Oxaliplatin-Containing Regimens
The efficacy of capecitabine 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 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 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 1,250 mg/m 2twice
daily for first 14 days of a 21-day cycle or leucovorin 20 mg/m 2intravenously
followed by fluorouracil 425 mg/m 2as 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 | ||||
Capecitabine (N=302) |
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=303) |
Capecitabine (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)
Capecitabine |
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=303) | |
Overall Response 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)
Capecitabine |
Fluorouracil + Leucovorin (N=301) | |
Overall Response 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. 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, 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 difference.
Figure 3 Kaplan-Meier Curve for Overall Survival of Pooled Data (Studies SO14695 and SO14796)
In Combination with Oxaliplatin
The efficacy of capecitabine 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.
14.2 Metastatic Breast Cancer
In Combination With Docetaxel
The efficacy of capecitabine 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 1,250 mg/m 2twice daily for
the first 14 days of a 21-day cycle and docetaxel 75 mg/m 2as a 1-hour
intravenous infusion on day 1 of day of a 21-day cycle or docetaxel 100 mg/m
2as 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)
Capecitabine + 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 after 4 cycles of anthracycline therapy, % |
16 |
16 |
Relapsed within 2 years of completion of anthracycline-adjuvant therapy, % |
31 |
29 |
Experienced a brief response to anthracycline therapy, with subsequent progression while on therapy or within 12 months after last 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 |
1Includes 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 |
Capecitabine + Docetaxel (N=255) |
Docetaxel |
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 Rate1 |
32% |
22% |
1The 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)
Figure 5 Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Survival in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14999)
Single Agent
The efficacy of capecitabine 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 2of 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 1,255 mg/m 2orally 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 |
|
22 |
21 |
Dominant Site of 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 |
1Lung, pleura, liver, peritoneum
2Includes 2 patients treated with an anthracenedione
Efficacy for Study SO14697 are shown in Table 17.
Table 17 Efficacy Results in Metastatic Breast Cancer (Study SO14697)
Efficacy Parameter |
Resistance to Both Paclitaxel and an Anthracycline (N=43) |
Response Rate1 |
25.6% |
Complete Response |
0% |
Partial Response 1 |
11% |
Duration of Response1 |
5.1 (2.1, -7.7) |
1Includes 2 patients treated with an anthracenedione
2From date of first response
For the subgroup of 43 patients who were doubly resistant, the median time to
progression was 3.4 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.
14.3 Gastric, Esophageal, or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
The efficacy of capecitabine 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 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 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 was evaluated in the ToGA trial [NCT01041404], an
open-label, multicenter, randomized trial where the primary efficacy measure
was overall survival.
14.4 Pancreatic Cancer
The efficacy of capecitabine 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 was evaluated in ESPAC-4 trial, a two-group, open-label, multicenter, randomized trial, where the major efficacy outcome measure was overall survival.
REFERENCES SECTION
15 REFERENCES
1. “OSHA Hazardous Drugs.” OSHA. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hazardousdrugs/index.html.
HOW SUPPLIED SECTION
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
Capecitabine tablets USP, 150 mg are light peach colored, capsule shaped,
biconvex film coated tablets debossed with ‘6’ on one side and ‘H’ on the
other side. They are supplied as follows:
Bottle of 60 tablets NDC 68001-643-06
Capecitabine tablets USP, 500 mg are peach colored, oval shaped, biconvex film
coated tablets deposited with 3’ on one side and ‘H’ on the other side. They
are supplied as follows:
Bottle of 120 tablets NDC 68001-644-07
Storage and Handling
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C
(59°Fto 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].KEEP TIGHTLY CLOSED.
Capecitabine tablet USP is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special
handling and disposal procedures. 1
INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Patient
Information).
Increased Risk of Bleeding with Concomitant Use of Vitamin K Antagonists
Advise patients on vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin, that they are at
an increased risk of severe bleeding while taking capecitabine. Advise these
patients that INR should be monitored more frequently, and dosage
modifications of the vitamin K antagonist may be required, while taking and
after discontinuation of capecitabine. Advise these patients to immediately
contact their healthcare provider if signs or symptoms of bleeding occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
Serious Adverse Reactions from Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD)
Deficiency
Inform patients of the potential for serious and life-threatening adverse
reactions due to DPD deficiency and discuss with your patient whether they
should be tested for genetic variants of DPYDthat are associated with an
increased risk of serious adverse reactions from the use of capecitabine.
Advise patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider if symptoms
of severe mucositis, diarrhea, neutropenia, and neurotoxicity occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)].
Cardiotoxicity
Advise patients of the risk of cardiotoxicity and to immediately contact their
healthcare provider for new onset of chest pain, shortness of breath,
dizziness, or lightheadedness [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Diarrhea
Inform patients experiencing grade 2 diarrhea (an increase of 4 to 6
stools/day or nocturnal stools) or greater or experiencing severe bloody
diarrhea with severe abdominal pain and fever to stop taking capecitabine.
Advise patients on the use of antidiarrheal treatments (e.g., loperamide) to
manage diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
DehydrationInstruct patients experiencing grade 2 or higher dehydration to
stop taking capecitabine immediately and to contact their healthcare provider.
Advise patients to not restart capecitabine until rehydrated and any
precipitating causes have been corrected or controlled [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
Renal Toxicity
Instruct patients experiencing decreased urinary output or other signs and
symptoms of renal toxicity to immediately contact their healthcare provider
[see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Serious Skin Toxicities
Instruct patients skin rash, blistering, or peeling to immediately contact
their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome
Instruct patients experiencing grade 2 palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia
syndrome or greater to stop taking capecitabine immediately and to contact
their healthcare provider. Inform patients that initiation of symptomatic
treatment is recommended and hand-and-foot syndrome can lead to loss of
fingerprints which could impact personal identification [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Myelosuppression
Inform patients who develop a fever of 100.5°F or greater or other evidence of
potential infection to immediately contact their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Hyperbilirubinemia
Inform patients who develop jaundice or icterus to immediately contact their
healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential
risk to a fetus.
Advise females of reproductive potential to inform their healthcare provider
of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11), Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Advise females of reproductive potential to use
effective contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 6 months
after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective
contraception during treatment with capecitabine and for 3 months after the
last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Lactation
Advise females not to breastfeed during treatment with capecitabine and for 1
week after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].
Infertility
Advise males and females of reproductive potential that capecitabine may
impair fertility [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Hypersensitivity and Angioedema
Advise patients that capecitabine may cause severe hypersensitivity reactions
and angioedema. Advise patients who have known hypersensitivity to
capecitabine or 5-fluorouracil to inform their healthcare provider [see Contraindications (4)]. Instruct patients who develop hypersensitivity
reactions or mucocutaneous symptoms (e.g., urticaria, rash, erythema,
pruritus, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat which make it
difficult to swallow or breathe) to stop taking capecitabine and immediately
contact their healthcare provider or to go to an emergency room. [see Adverse Reactions (6)].
Nausea and Vomiting
Instruct patients experiencing grade 2 nausea (food intake significantly
decreased but able to eat intermittently) or greater to stop taking
capecitabine and to immediately contact their healthcare provider for
management of nausea [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Instruct patients experiencing grade 2 vomiting (2 to 5 episodes in a 24-hour
period) or greater to stop taking capecitabine immediately and to contact
their healthcare provider for management of vomiting [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Stomatitis
Inform patients experiencing grade 2 stomatitis (painful erythema, edema or
ulcers of the mouth or tongue, but able to eat) or greater to stop taking
capecitabine immediately and to contact their healthcare provider [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Important Administration Instructions
Advise patients to swallow capecitabine tablets whole with water within 30
minutes after a meal. Advise patients and caregivers not to chew, crush, or
cut capecitabine tablets. Advise patients if they cannot swallow capecitabine
tablets whole to inform their healthcare provider [see Dosage and Administration (2.7), Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Drug interactions
Instruct patients not to take products containing folic acid or folate analog
products (e.g., leucovorin, levoleucovorin) unless directed to do so by their
healthcare provider. Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider of
all prescription or nonprescription medications, vitamins or herbal products
[see Drug Interactions (7.1, 7.2, 7.3)].
Manufactured By:
Hetero Labs Limited, Unit V, Polepally,
Jadcherla, Mahabubnagar - 509 301, India.
For: BluePoint Laboratories
Revised: 12/2024
SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION
Patient Information
Capecitabine (kap″ e sye′ ta been) |
What is the most important information I should know about capecitabine
tablets? |
What are capecitabine tablets? |
** Do not take capecitabine tablets if you:** |
** Before taking capecitabine tablets, tell your healthcare provider about all
your medical conditions, including if you:See“What is the most important
information I should know about capecitabine tablets?”** |
How should I take capecitabine tablets? |
What are the possible side effects of capecitabine tablets? |
** How should I store capecitabine tablets?** |
General information about the safe and effective use of capecitabine
tablets. |
What are the ingredients in capecitabine tablets? Hetero Labs Limited, Unit V, Polepally, Jadcherla, Mahabubnagar - 509 301, India. For: BluePoint Laboratories Revised: 12/2024 |
This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Revised: 12/2024