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Fluorouracil - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Fluorouracil Medication Information

Discover comprehensive details about Fluorouracil, including its pronunciation, uses, dosage instructions, indications, and guidelines on how and when to take it or avoid it.

The updated prescription information covers potential side effects, precautions, warnings, and storage recommendations.

Additionally, explore the Fluorouracil brands available in India and internationally, along with pricing information. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.

Generic Name : Fluorouracil
Pronunciation : flure oh yoor' a sill
ICD Code : Y56.9 Therapeutic Classification : Miscellaneous Dermatologicals

Brand Names or Trade Names of Fluorouracil

India :

International :


Adrucil, Carac, Efudix, Efudex And Fluoroplex

Why is Fluorouracil Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antimetabolite, prescribed for certain types of cancer such as colon, rectal, breast, stomach and pancreatic cancer.  It works by blocking the growth of certain cells.

When should Fluorouracil not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with severe infection, who are taking sorivudine and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Fluorouracil?

PO- The recommended dose is 1gm on alternate days, then 1 gm weekly. IV- 12mg/kg/day for 4 days.
Topical: 0.5 -5%cream- Apply 1-2 times/day for 2-4 week.

How should Fluorouracil be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It also comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein.

What are the warnings and precautions for Fluorouracil?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with liver or kidney impairment, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

• Avoid contact with people who have any infection.

• It may reduce platelet counts; avoid bruising or bleeding.

• Avoid vaccination while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Fluorouracil?

Most Common - Burning, crusting, skin inflammation, erosions, redness of the skin, pigmentation, irritation, pain, photosensitivity, itching, scar, rash, soreness and ulceration.
Central Nervous System - Emotional upset, sleeplessness and irritability.
Gastrointestinal - Taste perversion and mouth ulcer.
Blood - Eosinophilia, decrease in platelets and toxic granulation.
Skin - Hair loss, blistering, scaling, swelling, tenderness and hives.
Special Senses - Eye irritation, increased tears and nose irritation.
Miscellaneous - Herpes simplex.

What are the other precautions for Fluorouracil?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Fluorouracil?

Store it at room temperature (25�C), and in an airtight container. Keep away from children.

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