capecitabine + radiation therapy

Capecitabine + radiation therapy refers to the combination of capecitabine, an oral prodrug of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), administered concurrently with radiation therapy in the treatment of solid tumors, primarily in gastrointestinal and breast cancers. Capecitabine is metabolized to 5-FU, which inhibits DNA synthesis by blocking thymidylate synthase, thereby impairing cancer cell proliferation. Radiation therapy delivers high-energy rays to damage DNA directly within tumor cells, thereby enhancing the cytotoxic effect. When given together (concurrently), capecitabine acts as a *radiosensitizer*, increasing the tumor's susceptibility to radiation-induced DNA damage. This combination is frequently utilized in various settings, such as adjuvant, neoadjuvant, or definitive treatment for rectal, gastric, and breast cancers, in patients fit for chemoradiation but for whom continuous intravenous 5-FU is less practical. Clinical studies confirm efficacy and safety, noting manageable but sometimes significant toxicity, including dermatitis, neutropenia, and gastrointestinal effects[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

capecitabine and radiotherapycapecitabine with radiation therapychemoradiation with capecitabine