Common use

Zocitab tablet is primarily used to manage certain types of cancer, specifically colorectal and breast cancer. It's part of a group of medicines known as antineoplastic medicines, which belong to the fluoropyrimidine carbamate class.
Aside from its primary use, this medicine is also prescribed for the adjuvant treatment of Dukes' C colon cancer after complete tumour resection. It can be used as the first-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. Additionally, it serves in treating metastatic breast cancer when it has shown resistance to both paclitaxel and anthracycline-containing chemotherapy or when anthracycline therapy is not indicated.

Dosage and direction

Here's how you should take Zocitab:
Swallow the tablet whole with water.
Don't chew or crush the tablet.
Always follow your doctor's advice on dosage and duration.
Consult your doctor if you have any doubts.

Precautions

Before starting this medicine, consult your doctor to determine the correct dosage and frequency. Also, inform your doctor about any ongoing medications or pre-existing conditions you have. If you experience any side effects while taking this medicine, inform your doctor immediately. Remember to continue taking the medicine as prescribed by your doctor for the best results.

Contraindications

Liver dysfunction: Patients with mild to moderate liver disease need to be monitored more frequently for adverse reactions.
Renal impairment: Individuals with moderate to severe kidney impairment could require a dose reduction.
Coronary artery disease: This medicine can induce cardiotoxicity like angina, especially in patients with a history of heart disease.
DPD enzyme deficiency: Patients lacking DPD activity are at an increased risk for acute early-onset toxicity and severe, life-threatening, or fatal adverse reactions caused by 5-FU.

Possible side effect

Zocitab tablet may cause the following side effects:
Diarrhoea; Nausea; Vomiting; Abdominal Pain; Fatigue; Hand-and-foot syndrome: This is a condition in which redness, swelling, and pain occur on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet.

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless, and they resolve when you discontinue Zocitab. However, if you experience any serious side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

Drug interaction

Zocitab 500 tablet interacts with the following medicines:
Blood thinners: Medicines like warfarin may interact with Zocitab 500 MG Tablet 10, potentially heightening the risk of severe bleeding complications.
Anti-seizure medication: Phenytoin may have increased blood levels and effects when taken alongside this tablet.
Gout medications: Medicines like allopurinol may reduce the efficacy of capecitabine and should be avoided.

Missed dose

If you forget to take your regular Zocitab dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your usual schedule. Never increase your dosage without consulting your doctor.

Overdose

If you accidentally take more than the prescribed dose of Zocitab tablet, you may experience symptoms like diarrhoea and fatigue. If such symptoms persist, it's important to inform your doctor.

Storage

Store Zocitab in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Keep away from excessive heat and light. Ensure the medicine is kept out of reach and sight of children. Always check the expiry date before use.