Abstract

A REVIEW ON CAPACETABINE

Dr. Krupaliba Chudasama*

Abstract

Capecitabine, an oral drug used to treat breast and colorectal cancers, has been associated with potentially fatal cutaneous reactions.The drug's manufacturer, Hoffmann-La Roche, reported in an advisory from Health Canada that severe skin reactions have been observed in patients using capecitabine.In a letter to healthcare professionals, Health Canada noted that "very rare cases of severe cutaneous reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), in some cases with fatal outcome, have been reported during treatment with [capecitabine]."Associated signs and symptoms of severe skin reactions can include flu-like symptoms, fever, skin itching, and a painful red or purplish skin rash that spreads and blisters and eventually causes the skin to shed. Other possible symptoms include mouth sores, eye burning, itching, and discharge.[1]

Keywords: Capacetabine, cancer.