Xeloda () vs Tukysa (tucatinib)

Xeloda () vs Tukysa (tucatinib)

Xeloda (capecitabine) is an oral chemotherapy medication that is metabolized into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the body, used primarily to treat breast, gastric, and colorectal cancers. Tukysa (tucatinib), on the other hand, is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is specifically used in combination with other drugs for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, particularly in patients with metastatic disease. When deciding between Xeloda and Tukysa, it is crucial to consider the specific type of cancer, its molecular characteristics, such as HER2 status, and the treatment regimen's compatibility with the patient's overall health and treatment goals.

Difference between Xeloda and Tukysa

Metric Xeloda () Tukysa (tucatinib)
Generic name Capecitabine Tucatinib
Indications Colorectal cancer, metastatic breast cancer HER2-positive breast cancer
Mechanism of action Antimetabolite, thymidylate synthase inhibitor Tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Brand names Xeloda Tukysa
Administrative route Oral Oral
Side effects Hand-foot syndrome, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue Diarrhea, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, hepatotoxicity, fatigue
Contraindications Severe renal impairment, DPD deficiency Uncontrolled brain metastases, severe hepatic impairment
Drug class Antimetabolite HER2 inhibitor
Manufacturer Hoffmann-La Roche Seagen Inc.

Efficacy

Xeloda (Capecitabine) in Breast Cancer Treatment

Xeloda, known generically as capecitabine, is an oral chemotherapy medication that is metabolized into 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the body. It is specifically designed to target cancer cells while sparing normal cells, making it an effective treatment for certain types of breast cancer. Xeloda is commonly used in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer, particularly in cases where the cancer has not responded to other treatments. Clinical trials have shown that Xeloda can be effective in improving survival rates and reducing the risk of cancer progression when used either alone or in combination with other drugs.

Tukysa (Tucatinib) in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

Tukysa, with the generic name tucatinib, is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer, which is a subtype of breast cancer characterized by an overexpression of the HER2 protein. Tukysa has shown efficacy in clinical trials when combined with other therapies, such as trastuzumab and capecitabine. This combination has been found to significantly extend progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with advanced HER2-positive breast cancer, including those with brain metastases, a group that has historically been difficult to treat effectively.

Combination Therapy for Enhanced Efficacy

The combination of Xeloda and Tukysa, along with trastuzumab, represents a significant advancement in the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer. The synergistic effect of these drugs has been demonstrated in several clinical trials, where the combination has led to improved outcomes compared to standard therapies. The use of Tukysa in combination with Xeloda and trastuzumab is now an FDA-approved treatment regimen for patients with advanced HER2-positive breast cancer, including those with brain metastases, based on the compelling evidence of its efficacy.

Conclusion on Efficacy in Breast Cancer Treatment

In conclusion, both Xeloda and Tukysa have shown efficacy in the treatment of breast cancer, albeit in different subtypes and stages of the disease. Xeloda has been a valuable option for patients with metastatic breast cancer, particularly when other treatments have failed. Tukysa has emerged as a powerful drug for treating HER2-positive breast cancer, especially when used in combination with other targeted therapies. The use of these medications, alone or in combination, has improved the prognosis for many patients with breast cancer, offering hope for extended survival and a better quality of life.

Regulatory Agency Approvals

Xeloda
  • European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
Tukysa
  • European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
  • Health Canada
  • Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
  • Swissmedic (CH)

Access Xeloda or Tukysa today

If Xeloda or Tukysa are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.

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