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Tegafur-Ugotex or Capecitabine

Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Tegafur-Uracil (Tegafur-Ugotex) is a combination prodrug that inhibits thymidylate synthase to block DNA synthesis in cancer cells.

Tegafur-Uracil (Tegafur-Ugotex) is a combination prodrug that inhibits thymidylate synthase to block DNA synthesis in cancer cells. Used for Colorectal cancer, Gastric cancer, Breast cancer.

At a glance

Generic nameTegafur-Ugotex or Capecitabine
SponsorLiaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute
Drug classAntimetabolite; 5-fluorouracil prodrug
TargetThymidylate synthase
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Tegafur is a prodrug of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) that is converted in the body to active 5-FU, which inhibits thymidylate synthase and disrupts nucleotide synthesis. Uracil is a competitive inhibitor of dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase, the enzyme that degrades 5-FU, thereby prolonging 5-FU exposure and enhancing its cytotoxic effects. This combination allows for oral administration with improved bioavailability compared to intravenous 5-FU.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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