Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is capecitabine. You should take it as directed by your doctor with water. Unless your doctor indicates otherwise, you should take it 30 minutes after eating breakfast, and 30 minutes after eating dinner. It's important to have a clear understanding of your dose, so ask your doctor if you have any questions. 

Capecitabine helps treat certain types of cancer of the colon, rectum or breast. Many patients will have side effects. You could feel tired, weak or dizzy. So, wait until you know how it affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving.  You could also have body aches, trouble sleeping, headache or problems with taste. The good news is most side effects are not serious. You should still report them to your doctor promptly. 

As with any medicine, more serious side effects can occur. These may include a fever, nausea or vomiting. It could also include pain, swelling, sores or redness of your mouth, hands or feet.  It could also be serious if you have diarrhea at night or frequent bowel movements, such as 4 more times than usual in a day. You should pay close attention to your body, and call your doctor immediately if you notice these or other unusual changes. To keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your closely. 

It's important to ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbal remedies or other medicines, even if they don't require a prescription. 

Men and women who take this medicine should use birth control, because this medicine can be unsafe for the baby. Women should also avoid breastfeeding. 

For best results, take capecitabine exactly as prescribed, and read the patient package insert for full information.