Xeloda for colon cancer - Scared about side effects and need support

Hello. I'm also Stage 3 and just about to start on Xelox, which I guess is similar? I had 23 lymph nodes removed, one of which had cancer cells (the one nearest the tumour). Perhaps we can compare notes on how we progress?

Welcome @leed2022. I'm glad you've connected with @martin77.
Xeloda is the brand name for capecitabine and Xelox is a chemo combination of capecitabine and oxaliplatin.

@pgf @mallika58 @wifemom3 @canfriend may have Xeloda and colorectal cancer experiences to share.

Martin, fellow members @lunaluna10 @firepowr and @robertkerr have had Xelox, the capecitabine and oxaliplatin combo.

Hello, thanks so much for reaching out. The drug I will be starting after the holidays is Xeloda (brand name), and the generic name is Capecitabine. I don't have all the details just yet because they are waiting for the insurance company to approve it, which I know they will. I just read so many comments in various sites about how some people did not have any side effects while others had problems with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fatigue. I realize everyone is different, but it sure is scary having to go through this like so many of us. I would love to compare notes as we go along. When will you actually start the treatment? Will you be taking the pill? I believe my dose is supposed to be 1,650mg 2/day. The pills come in 500mg and 150mg, so I am guessing that means (3) 500mg tablets plus (1) 150mg tablet 2/day. Let's definitely keep in touch.

Hi Colleen, I appreciate your explaining that information, and will definitely review the other discussion. It's nice to know people in this group share information and try to help each other.
Thanks so much!

Hi Colleen. Many thanks for explaining the differences between Xeloda and Xelox, and for linking me to others who have had Xelox.

Hello. It seems we will be having slightly different treatments but look forward to comparing experiences. I start with an infusion on 15 December then pills twice a day for 15 days, then 7 days holiday and then the whole process starts again for a total period I understand of around 3 months.

I will be thinking about you and wishing you well. Please keep me posted. I am not sure of the exact date when I start the Xeloda but it is supposed to be right after Christmas. I believe it will be 1,650mg 2/day for 14 days, then off for 7 days. This is considered one cycle, and I have to follow this for 8 cycles. Since the pills come in 500mg and 150 mg, I am guessing that I will have to take 3 of the 500mg and 1 of the 150mg 2/day. Once I finish all the cycles, I will get a CT scan again to see how things are going. It's an emotional roller coaster ride to say the least. Take care!

Thanks. I'll let you know how I get on. We will have the same pills although I don't know yet the strength / number to take.
The difference is my treatment starts with an infusion of Oxaliplatin followed by the first Xeloda pill(s) the same evening. The following day should be an interesting one!
Quite envious that you're starting after Christmas and not before. Best wishes.

Well, that was my doctor's idea for me to start after Christmas. She may have felt I would be able to enjoy the holidays better, but in my opinion, it just prolongs the worry and anxiety. Maybe you can ask your doctor if you can start the week after Christmas if you prefer to do so. Yes, please let me know how you do after the first few days, as I'm sure it will take a little time to settle in with your routine, and to get your body used to the medication. Do you have a good support system at home with family and/or friends? That will help.

Day 3 now since starting chemo last Thursday and all going well. The infusion procedure was better than expected - no pain / discomfort and a good lunch whilst it took place. A great hospital team - I'm using a private hospital for chemo. The pre-warned side effects of tingly fingers when touching cold objects (I've been wearing thin cotton gloves) and a strange momentary jaw / throat spasm when eating / drinking coolish foods / drinks, which soon goes after a few deep warm breaths.
Now into serious pill popping each day - 3 tablets of Xeloda twice a day + steroids + anti-sickness pills. The steroids run out today and so I might well be on a steroid high at the moment!
I think exercise is all important. My target is 3,000 steps a day, achieved Friday but not yesterday, all done indoors because it's still -2C here where we live in the UK and I've been told not to take gulps of cold air as this will trigger the jaw / throat spasms. I've also just taken delivery of an exercise bike!
Yes, a good family / friend support group is essential too and I'm lucky in that respect. I hope the same goes for you and that you have a joyous Christmas.