Stops the growth of cancer cells by inhibiting DNA synthesis;
Gets converted into its active form called fluorouracil and interferes with cell signalling, preventing the multiplication of cancer cells.
Important information:
Not recommended for children and adolescents;
Consult a physician before taking if you are intolerant to sugars, as this medication contains lactose;
Not recommended for people with low white blood cell or platelet count, chickenpox, shingles, or enzyme DPD deficiency (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase);
Pregnant women should not take this medication as it may cause fetal harm.
Side effects:
Serious: severe bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pain, heart problems, loss of too much body fluid, kidney failure, serious skin and mouth reactions, hand and foot syndrome, liver problems, decreased blood count;
Common: loss of appetite, weight loss, insomnia, depression, headache, dizziness, eye irritation, inflammation of veins, runny nose, fever, infections, hair loss, pain in joints, back, dry mouth, indigestion, constipation.
Safety advice:
Pregnancy: not recommended;
Breastfeeding: consult a doctor about the best way to feed your baby if you receive this drug;
Lungs: consult a doctor if you have any lung diseases before starting the treatment;
Liver: inform your doctor if you have any liver disorders before taking Cacit 500mg Tablet;
Alcohol: consult your doctor for more advice;
Driving: may cause drowsiness, consult your doctor before resuming driving.
Dosage:
Take as prescribed by your doctor;
Do not crush or chew the tablet;
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing times to avoid taking double doses. Call your doctor to ask about making up the missed dose.
Storage:
Store in the original package at room temperature (20°C to 25°C);
Do not freeze;
Keep out of reach from children and pets.
FAQs:
Is Cacit 500mg Tablet prescribed as a monotherapy?
Cacit 500mg Tablet is prescribed as a monotherapy and also in combination with other anticancer agents like Docetaxel and Oxaliplatin to treat breast and colorectal cancer respectively.
What tests are essential before starting treatment with Cacit 500mg Tablet?
Before starting treatment with Cacit 500mg Tablet, your healthcare provider will recommend tests for pregnancy, DPD deficiency (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase), prothrombin time, INR, kidney function tests and serum electrolytes.
Is it safe to undergo surgery during the treatment with Cacit 500mg Tablet?
It is suggested to avoid planning for surgery while on treatment with Cacit 500mg Tablet. Tell your physician before you undergo surgery or dental procedures.
What should you do if you missed a dose of Cacit 500mg Tablet?
If you missed taking a dose of Cacit 500mg Tablet, skip this dose. Do not take two tablets to make up for the missed dose. Report to your healthcare provider right away if you missed taking more than two doses of this drug.
Who should not take Cacit 500mg Tablet?
Cacit 500mg Tablet is not recommended for people who are allergic to this drug, 5-fluorouracil and their ingredients. It is also contraindicated in people with severe kidney disease and DPD deficiency (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase).
Can you smoke while on treatment with Cacit 500mg Tablet?
It is not recommended to smoke cigarettes while on treatment with Cacit 500mg Tablet as smoking can reduce the concentration of the drug in the body.
How do you know if you have overdosed on Cacit 500mg Tablet?
Watch out for symptoms like nausea, gastric irritation, diarrhea, vomiting, bleeding and seek immediate medical attention from a nearby healthcare facility.
