Fluorouracil 

Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil is a chemotherapy medication approved by the FDA for treating actinic or solar keratoses and superficial basal cell carcinoma. Generally prescribed by oncologists, it is available in different forms and strengths, including injection, topical, and intravenous solutions. It works by interfering with the growth & spread of cancer cells, slowing or stopping their proliferation. It is suitable for use in adults and certain pediatric patients under careful medical supervision. For a safe and efficient use of the medication, you should consult a licensed healthcare professional and seek their guidance regarding usage, dosage, storage, and more.

Product Overview

Fluorouracil contains the active ingredient fluorouracil, a chemotherapy medication used to manage cancer of the pancreas, stomach, breast, and colorectal. It works by interfering with the growth & spread of cancer cells, slowing or stopping their proliferation. Fluorouracil is available in different strengths, typically ranging from 500 mg to 1,000 mg. It is administered either as an injection or intravenously. The dosage and frequency depend on the type and severity of the cancer being treated, as well as the patient’s overall health and response to therapy. 

Fluorouracil is generally prescribed by oncologists and is suitable for adults and certain pediatric patients under careful medical supervision. The medication targets rapidly dividing cancer cells, disrupting their DNA synthesis and cell division. Common side effects of Fluorouracil may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, and low blood cell counts. Patients should be carefully monitored for signs & symptoms of severe reactions such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, and severe gastrointestinal issues. 

Before starting treatment, it is crucial to inform the healthcare provider about any existing conditions or allergies. In case of a missed dose, contact the healthcare provider for instructions. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. Overdose requires immediate medical attention. Store Fluorouracil at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Always follow the healthcare provider’s guidance regarding the use of Fluorouracil to ensure safe and effective treatment.

What Are the Uses of Fluorouracil?

It is used to treat:

• Actinic or solar keratoses 
• Superficial basal cell carcinoma

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Fluorouracil?

It is available in the following forms and strengths:

Form: Topical cream

Strengths: 0.5%, 1%, 5%

Form: Intravenous solution 

Strengths: 50 mg/ml 

Form: Injectable solution 

Strengths: 50 mg/ml 

Form: Topical solution 

Strengths: 2%, 5%

What Are the Recommended Dosage of Fluorouracil?

For Actinic or Solar Keratosis

• Adults should apply the topical cream and solution to the affected area twice daily for two to four weeks.
• The safety & efficacy of this medication have not been established in children, so the doctor will determine the usage and dosage. 

For Superficial Basal Cell Carcinomas 

• Adult patients should apply the topical solution to the affected area twice daily for three to six weeks. 
• The safety & effectiveness of this prescription have not been demonstrated in pediatric patients, so the doctor will determine the usage and dosage. 

[Note: These recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss them with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Fluorouracil? 

• Before using Fluorouracil, you should carefully read and follow the patient information leaflet or medication guide provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. If you do not understand any part of the leaflet or if you have any questions or concerns, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist. 
• Use this prescription exactly as your doctor directs. Do not use more or less than prescribed, in large quantities, or more frequently, as it can lead to unwanted side effects. 
• The medication is for topical use only. Do not get any of the cream or solution near or around your nose, eyes, or mouth. If it gets near these areas, properly rinse it with plenty of water and immediately call your doctor. 
• If you use this medication to treat actinic or solar keratoses, keep using it until the lesions start peeling off. Usually, this takes about two to four weeks. However, the lesions may not completely heal until one or two months after you discontinue using Fluorouracil. 
• If you are using this medication to treat superficial basal cell carcinoma, continue using it until your lesions completely disappear. This usually takes at least three to six weeks but may take as long as ten to twelve weeks. 
• Before and after this medication, you should wash your hands properly with soap and water. 
• Before applying the cream to the affected area, ensure the skin is clean and well-dried. Wait ten minutes, then thinly apply enough Fluorouracil to cover the affected area. 
• You may apply the topical solution with a nonmetal applicator, glove, or fingers. 
• To help you remember using Fluorouracil, take it around the same time every day. 
• The affected area may become unsightly during treatment and, in certain cases, for several weeks after treatment. 
• Do not apply a bandage or cover the treated skin area with tight dressings or plastic bandages. Consult your doctor to learn if you may cover the area loosely with gauze. 
• This medication may cause severe harm, including death, in pets. Keep it in a safe place, away from pets’ sight and reach, and do not allow animals to lick the area where it was applied. Call your vet immediately if your pet comes into contact with Fluorouracil. 
• Do not stop taking Fluorouracil or increase your medication dosage without consulting your doctor, as it may increase your risk of developing undesirable side effects. 
• Inform your doctor if your condition does not get better or worsen. 
• Do not share your medications with others, even if they have the same symptoms as you. 

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Fluorouracil Work?

Fluorouracil, when used topically, is an antimetabolite medication that works by obstructing the growth of abnormal cells. When applied to pre-cancerous or cancerous skin cells, topical fluorouracil prevents them from growing further. Its precise mechanism of action involves inhibiting the enzyme thymidylate synthase, which disrupts DNA production and ultimately leads to cell death. This versatile drug is used both intravenously for various cancers and topically for skin conditions like actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma.

Important Safety Information for Using Fluorouracil

What Are the Side Effects of Fluorouracil?

Common Side Effects of Fluorouracil: Similar to other medications, Fluorouracil may also cause side effects in some people. These side effects usually disappear within a few days or weeks and do not require any medical attention. If you have any concerns or queries regarding the side effects caused by this medication, consult your doctor. They will help you prevent and manage these symptoms. Common side effects caused by Fluorouracil are as follows:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Mouth sores
• Skin changes (dryness, rash, or increased sensitivity to sunlight)
• Hair thinning or loss
• Fatigue
• Eye irritation

Mild Side Effects of Fluorouracil: It may also cause mild side effects in some patients. Regular monitoring during treatment is crucial to manage side effects effectively and adjust treatment if necessary. Mild side effects caused by Fluorouracil are not usually severe and disappear within a few days as your body adjusts to this medication. If your symptoms persist or have become bothersome, contact your doctor. 

• Mild headache
• Mild stomach pain
• Temporary changes in nail appearance
• Mild skin darkening
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Temporary changes in taste perception
• Mild dizziness

Serious Side Effects of Fluorouracil: In rare cases, Fluorouracil may cause serious side effects in some patients. It is essential to mention that not everyone using this medication will experience these side effects, and their stringency can vary from person to person. Patients should always report any side effects, especially serious ones, to their healthcare provider immediately. Severe side effects require prompt medical attention and can be life-threatening if not treated properly. 

• Severe diarrhea leading to dehydration

• Severe mouth sores that interfere with eating or drinking

• Severe nausea and vomiting that prevents keeping food or water down

• Signs of infection. Its symptoms may include fever, chills, persistent sore throat

• Unusual bleeding or bruising

• Severe skin reactions. Symptoms include blistering, peeling

• Hand-foot syndrome. Symptoms may include painful redness and swelling of hands and feet

• Heart problems, including chest pain (angina) and irregular heartbeat

• Neurological issues. Symptoms may include confusion, difficulty speaking, loss of balance

• Severe allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Fluorouracil? 

• DPD Deficiency and Serious Reactions: Patients with complete or partial DPD deficiency are at high risk of severe, potentially fatal reactions to fluorouracil. Fluorouracil is not recommended for those with complete DPD deficiency. Genetic testing for DPYD variants should be considered before starting treatment.
• Cardiotoxicity: Fluorouracil can cause heart-related issues like angina, heart attacks, arrhythmias, and heart failure. These risks increase with continuous infusion and in patients with coronary artery disease. Stop fluorouracil if heart problems occur.
• Hyperammonemic Encephalopathy: Fluorouracil can lead to high ammonia levels in the blood, causing altered mental states and other severe symptoms. Discontinue use and start ammonia-lowering treatment if this condition arises.
• Neurologic Toxicity: Fluorouracil may cause confusion, disorientation, ataxia, or visual disturbances. Stop treatment if these symptoms occur.
• Severe Diarrhea: Fluorouracil can cause intense diarrhea. Pause treatment for severe diarrhea until symptoms improve, then resume at a reduced dose.
• Hand-Foot Syndrome: Fluorouracil can cause tingling, pain, swelling, and redness in the hands and feet. This condition is more common with continuous infusion and in patients previously treated with chemotherapy. Pause treatment for moderate to severe symptoms until they improve.
• Myelosuppression: Fluorouracil can cause severe, sometimes fatal, reductions in blood cell counts. Monitor blood counts regularly and stop treatment if severe myelosuppression occurs, resuming at a reduced dose once resolved.
• Mucositis: Fluorouracil can cause painful mouth and throat sores. For severe mucositis, pause treatment until symptoms improve, then resume at a reduced dose.
• Warfarin Interaction: Fluorouracil can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin. Monitor blood clotting parameters closely and adjust the warfarin dose as needed.
• Embryofetal Toxicity: Fluorouracil can harm a developing fetus. Advise women of reproductive age and men with female partners to use effective methods of contraception during and for three months after treatment.

What Are the Fluorouracil Precautions?

• Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have an allergy to it, flucytosine, capecitabine, or any other medications. Also, tell them if you have any other allergies or any other ingredients present in the product. This product contains certain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Ask your pharmacist or medical provider for the complete list of ingredients present in the Fluorouracil. 
• Before using Fluorouracil, share your complete medical history with your doctor, especially if you have a certain enzyme deficiency or red, irritated, open, or infected skin sores. 
• Fluorouracil may make you more sensitive to sunlight. You should not expose your skin to extended periods in the sun. Avoid tanning sunlamps and booths. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when under the sun. After using this medication, wait two hours before applying moisturizer or sunscreen to the treated area. Do not use other skin products unless instructed by your doctor. Inform your doctor immediately if you get skin blisters/redness or sunburned. 
• If you plan to have surgery, including a dental procedure, tell your doctor beforehand that you are using this medication. Also, tell them about all your medications, including all prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal and vitamin supplements. 
• You should not use this medication if you are pregnant, as it can negatively affect the unborn baby. Discuss the use of effective forms of contraception with your doctor while you are using this medication. If you get pregnant or suspect a pregnancy, inform your doctor immediately.
• It is unknown if Fluorouracil passes into the breast milk. Due to the possible risk of causing harm to the nursing infant, you should not breastfeed while using this medication. Consult your doctor if you plan to breastfeed while using this medication. 

What Are the Contraindications of Fluorouracil? 

Fluorouracil is contraindicated for use in patients:

• Who are in a poor nutritional state
• With depressed bone marrow function
• With potentially serious infections 
• With a known hypersensitivity to Fluorouracil 

What If You Missed a Dose of Fluorouracil?

• If you have missed a dose of Fluorouracil, you should take it as soon as you remember. 
• However, if it is almost time to take your next dose, you may omit the missed dose and continue taking your medication according to your regular dosing schedule. 
• Do not simultaneously take double or extra doses of the same medication to compensate for the missed dose. 
• You can set a reminder on your phone to prevent missing your doses. Medication reminders work best for this purpose.  

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Fluorouracil?

Due to how it is applied, an overdose of Fluorouracil is unlikely to occur. If you have applied Fluorouracil more than prescribed, you should properly wash the excess medication with soap and water. However, the medication may cause harm if someone has accidentally ingested it. If the person is having severe symptoms such as trouble breathing or passing out, you should call 911 or the poison control helpline. You can also head to the nearest emergency room. 

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store a Fluorouracil?

• You should keep Fluorouracil in its original container tightly closed at room temperature between 20-25°C or 68-77°F, away from moisture, direct sunlight, and moisture. 
• Do not keep it in the bathroom or near the sink.
• Do not allow the medication to freeze or expose it to an open flame. 
• Keep all medications, including Fluorouracil, in a safe place, away from the sight and reach of children and pets. 
• Don’t keep medications that are outdated or no longer needed. Discard them safely. 
• You should not dispose of unwanted medications by pouring them into the drain, flushing them down the toilet, or throwing them into the household garbage bin.
• You should eliminate unwanted medications in such a way that prevents children, animals, and others from consuming them.
• To learn more about how to dispose of unwanted medications, consult your pharmacist, healthcare provider, or local waste disposal company. 

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional the proper disposal of unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Fluorouracil?

Certain medications may interact with Fluorouracil and affect how it works. Before using this medication, inform your medical provider about all the medicines you are taking currently or plan to take, including all prescription, non-prescription, and over-the-counter drugs, herbal, or vitamin supplements. This information will help them identify and prevent potential drug interactions. If you are concerned about Fluorouracil interactions, you should consult your doctor. This list is not complete, and there may be other drug interactions with Fluorouracil.

• Warfarin 
• Phenytoin
• Brivudine
• Sorivudine 
• Analogues
• Metronidazole
• Leucovorin 
• Allopurinol
• Cimetidine
• Tamoxifen
• Live vaccines
• Other chemotherapy drugs
• Interferon alfa
• Thiazide diuretics
• Nephrotoxic drugs
• Hepatotoxic drugs
• Folic acid

What Are the Other Fluorouracil Interactions?

In addition to drug interactions, fluorouracil can also interact with herbs, supplements, foods, and beverages. This list may not be exhaustive, and you should always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for personalized advice. 

• St. John’s Wort
• Folic Acid
• Ascorbic Acid
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice
• Alcohol

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Fluorouracil. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Fluorouracil Alternatives?

People look for alternative medicines to Fluorouracil when they do not suit them or do not get the desired results. There are many effective substitutes for Fluorouracil available in the market. Patients should consult a licensed healthcare provider before changing their medication or starting a new one. Based on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to treatment, the medical provider will help them determine the medication that works best for them. Some of the popular alternatives to Fluorouracil are as follows:

• Carac
• Tolak
• Aminolevulinic acid topical
• Fluoroplex
• Klisyri
• Ameluz (aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride) 

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Fluorouracil Cost & Coupons

The cost of Fluorouracil can be influenced by aspects such as health insurance coverage. Many Americans find their insurance does not cover certain medications, leading to significant out-of-pocket expenses. To help manage these costs, some turn to services like Polar Bear Meds, which offer Fluorouracil from Canada at a reduced price. Additionally, customers can use the coupon code WELCOMEPB10 for a 10% discount on their first order. Exploring all available options and discounts is essential to make Fluorouracil more affordable. Always consult a medical provider or pharmacist for advice on obtaining Fluorouracil at the best possible price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is fluorouracil called 5-FU?

Fluorouracil is commonly known as 5-FU because it is a fluorinated uracil analog. The “5” refers to the position of the fluorine atom on the uracil ring, which is essential for its function as an antimetabolite in chemotherapy. This modification enhances its ability to inhibit DNA synthesis in cancer cells.

When to stop fluorouracil treatment?

Fluorouracil treatment should be discontinued if severe side effects occur, such as significant gastrointestinal distress, severe mucositis, or signs of cardiotoxicity. Additionally, if the patient develops severe myelosuppression or an allergic reaction, treatment should be halted. Always consult the healthcare provider for specific guidance based on the patient’s condition and response to therapy.

What happens to your skin when you use fluorouracil?

Fluorouracil can cause skin reactions such as redness, irritation, peeling, and swelling at the application site. These effects result from its action as a topical chemotherapy agent targeting precancerous and cancerous skin cells. Patients may experience increased sensitivity and discomfort in the treated areas, which should be monitored and managed by a healthcare professional.

Is fluorouracil cream chemotherapy?

Yes, fluorouracil cream is a form of chemotherapy used on the skin to treat superficial basal cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis. It targets and destroys abnormal skin cells, preventing their growth and proliferation. Despite its topical application, it functions similarly to systemic chemotherapy in disrupting cancer cell processes.

How long does it take for fluorouracil cream to work?

Fluorouracil cream typically takes several weeks to show noticeable effects. The therapy duration can vary depending on the condition being treated & the patient’s response. Improvement in the treated areas generally becomes visible after 2 to 4 weeks, with full results often observed within 8 to 12 weeks. Routine follow-up with a healthcare provider is crucial for monitoring progress.

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