Fluorouracil
Fluorouracil
What is Fluorouracil?
Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a prescription topical medication used to treat actinic keratoses and certain types of superficial skin cancer, including superficial basal cell carcinoma. It works by destroying abnormal skin cells, allowing healthier skin to regenerate over time.
Side Effects
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Warnings
- Severe bone marrow suppression may occur, leading to complications like infection or bleeding.
- Use with caution in patients with pre-existing heart conditions as it may cause myocardial ischemia.
- Monitor for signs of gastrointestinal toxicity, which can be severe and lead to complications.
- Patients with liver impairment should use with caution as it may exacerbate liver dysfunction.
- May enhance the toxic effects of radiation therapy; concurrent use requires careful monitoring.
Prescription savings · · ·
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- mouth sores
- low blood cell counts
- hair loss
- weakness
- loss of appetite
- skin rash
- changes in skin color
- Severe bone marrow suppression may occur, leading to complications like infection or bleeding.
- Use with caution in patients with pre-existing heart conditions as it may cause myocardial ischemia.
- Monitor for signs of gastrointestinal toxicity, which can be severe and lead to complications.
- Patients with liver impairment should use with caution as it may exacerbate liver dysfunction.
- May enhance the toxic effects of radiation therapy; concurrent use requires careful monitoring.
- Should be used cautiously in patients with renal impairment.
- Avoid use during pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm.
- Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication.
- Patients should be monitored for neurotoxicity, which can manifest as confusion or cerebellar dysfunction.
- Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function tests is advised.
Fluorouracil Coupons & Prices
Fluorouracil
What is Fluorouracil ?
Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a prescription topical medication used to treat actinic keratoses and certain types of superficial skin cancer, including superficial basal cell carcinoma. It works by destroying abnormal skin cells, allowing healthier skin to regenerate over time.
Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a prescription medication commonly used as a topical cream or solution to treat actinic keratoses (AKs), rough precancerous skin lesions caused by long-term sun exposure, and certain forms of superficial basal cell carcinoma when surgery is not appropriate. As a topical chemotherapy medication, fluorouracil selectively targets rapidly growing abnormal skin cells while minimizing effects on healthy surrounding tissue.
Fluorouracil works by interfering with the DNA production of damaged skin cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. During treatment, it is common for the affected skin to become red, inflamed, crusted, and irritated as abnormal cells are destroyed. Although this reaction may appear concerning, it is often an expected part of the healing process and indicates that the medication is actively treating damaged skin.
Treatment schedules vary depending on the condition being treated and the area of the body involved. Most patients apply fluorouracil once or twice daily for several weeks, following the exact instructions provided by their healthcare provider. It is important to complete the full course of treatment even if the skin becomes irritated unless otherwise directed. Patients should also protect treated areas from sun exposure by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing during and after therapy.
Common side effects include redness, burning, itching, scaling, dryness, swelling, tenderness, and temporary changes in skin appearance. These reactions usually resolve after treatment is completed and new healthy skin begins to form. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience severe pain, signs of infection, or unexpected side effects.
Whether you're treating sun-damaged skin or refilling your prescription, Rx.com makes it easy to compare Fluorouracil (5-FU) pharmacy prices, find prescription savings, and use the free Rx.com Prescription Discount Card to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. If you need a prescription or want to discuss treatment options, you can also connect with a licensed healthcare provider online.
Related Drugs
Browse more medications: starting with 0-9 · full A-Z directory · by condition · common drugs
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.