Fluorouracil

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Antineoplastic Agent	Efudix®	Adult, Cancer-related

Fluorouracil - What is it for

Topical fluorouracil is used on the skin to treat skin cancer and skin conditions that could become cancerous. Fluorouracil interferes with the growth of abnormal cells which are eventually destroyed.

This medication is also used for other skin conditions as determined by your doctor.

Fluorouracil - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Fluorouracil cause?

Certain side effects of this medication are not unusual and may even disappear during treatment. If any of the following effects persist or are severe, consult your doctor.

Redness, soreness, scaling and peeling of affected skin

This is to be expected. It happens within 1 or 2 weeks of use and may last for several weeks even after you have stopped using the medication. Sometimes a pink, smooth area is left when the treated skin heals. This area will usually fade after 1 to 2 months. Do not stop using this medication without first checking with your doctor.

Skin irritation, burning, pain and swelling at the site of application
Enlarged lymph nodes may appear transiently
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun

Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Stomach pain
Severe or bloody diarrhoea
Vomiting
Vision changes, eye pain or severe eye irritation
Mouth sores
Fever, chills, or sore throat; unexplained bruising or bleeding; feeling very tired or weak
Symptoms of a drug allergy:

Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
Difficulty in breathing
Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Before taking Fluorouracil , what precautions must I follow?

Be careful if you are applying the medication around your eyelids, nose and lips and avoid any contact with the eyes or mouth. Wash your hands thoroughly after use.
Do not apply the medication on open wounds.
If somebody else is helping you to apply the medication, they should take precautions to avoid the medication being absorbed through their skin. It is recommended that they should wear disposable surgical gloves, remove them after use and wash their hands thoroughly.
Inform your healthcare professional if:

You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
You have any red/irritated/open sores on your skin.
You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Fluorouracil ?

Do check with your healthcare professional if you are taking any other medications or applying any other medications on the skin being treated.

Fluorouracil - Dosage and How to Use

How should Fluorouracil be used?

Before you apply this medication to the skin, clean the affected area and dry well.
Wait for 10 minutes, then apply a small amount of medication to the affected skin.
The medication should be applied in a thin layer to the affected area and its surrounding (determined by the doctor) once or twice daily or as advised by your doctor.
The total area of skin treated at any one time should not be more than 23x23 cm (500 cm²) or 9x9 inches.
Do not cover the area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of this medication, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed application and carry on as before. Do not apply a double dose.