Fluorouracil

What is Fluorouracil?

Fluorouracil is a well-known chemotherapy medicine used to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. Doctors prescribe it as an injection, infusion, or topical cream depending on the type of cancer or skin condition being treated. It belongs to a group of medicines called antimetabolites and is commonly used in cancer care centers across the USA. This medicine should only be used under the close supervision of a licensed oncologist.

Fluorouracil Used For

Fluorouracil is mainly used to treat several types of cancers, including colorectal cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, stomach cancer, and certain head and neck cancers. In topical form, it is also used to treat actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma. The goal of treatment is to slow down abnormal cell growth and support recovery.

Chemical Composition

The active ingredient is Fluorouracil, a fluorinated pyrimidine analog. There are no additional active components, but injectable and topical forms may contain stabilizers or preservatives depending on the manufacturer.

Fluorouracil Mechanism

Fluorouracil works by interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis inside rapidly dividing cancer cells. It blocks the building blocks needed for cells to multiply, causing cancer cells to die or stop growing. Because cancer cells divide faster than normal cells, Fluorouracil targets them more actively.

How Does It Help in Cancer Management?

This medicine helps reduce tumor size, control disease spread, and improve treatment outcomes when used alone or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. By slowing cancer cell replication, Fluorouracil supports the overall treatment plan, giving other therapies such as radiation or targeted therapy a better chance to work effectively.

What Are the Other Benefits?

• Helps reduce precancerous skin lesions

• May prevent recurrence when used as part of combination therapy

• Improves survival rates in certain cancers

• Reduces symptoms caused by tumor growth

• Works well alongside surgery, radiation, and other cancer medicines

---

Dosages

Available Strengths or Dosage Forms

Fluorouracil is available in multiple forms:

• Injection or IV infusion (most common in cancer treatment)

• Topical cream (1%–5%) for skin conditions

• Hospital-based high-dose regimens depending on cancer type

The dosage and schedule depend on the cancer being treated, body surface area (BSA), and the overall treatment plan.

How and When to Take It

• Injectable Fluorouracil is given by healthcare professionals only.

• It may be administered as a slow IV injection, continuous infusion, or part of a treatment cycle.

• Topical Fluorouracil cream is applied directly to affected skin once or twice daily, as instructed.

• Do not apply cream on healthy skin, and avoid sunlight during use.

• Follow your oncologist’s exact schedule and never change dosage on your own.

Overdose Caution

Taking more than prescribed can cause severe toxicity, including infections, mouth sores, internal bleeding, and low blood cell counts. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical care immediately. For topical overdose (accidental over-application), wash the area gently and contact your doctor.

---

Who Can Use/Take Fluorouracil?

Fluorouracil may be prescribed to:

• Adults diagnosed with cancers responsive to this treatment

• Older adults who can tolerate chemotherapy

• Individuals with precancerous or cancerous skin lesions (topical form)

It may not be suitable for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

• Patients with severe bone marrow suppression

• People with uncontrolled infections

• Individuals with severe liver or kidney problems

• Anyone with known allergies to Fluorouracil or related medicines

Age restrictions depend on the diagnosis, but this medicine is rarely used in children unless recommended by specialized cancer centers.

---

Side Effects & Precautions

What Are the Side Effects?

Common side effects include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Skin peeling or redness (topical use)

• Mouth sores

• Temporary hair thinning

• Loss of appetite

• Irritation at application or injection site

Serious side effects may include:

• Low blood cell counts

• Severe infection

• Heart problems

• Liver changes

• Severe allergic reactions

• Extreme dehydration

Seek immediate medical help if you notice chest pain, uncontrolled vomiting, bleeding, fever, or sudden breathing difficulty.

What Are the Precautions to Avoid Side Effects?

• Follow all dosage instructions carefully.

• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals during treatment.

• Avoid crowded places or sick individuals due to low immunity risk.

• Protect skin from sunlight when using topical Fluorouracil.

• Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you use.

• Do not use during pregnancy; reliable birth control is recommended.

• Regular blood tests may be required to monitor your response and safety.

---

Always consult your oncologist before starting dose. If prescribed, you can order Fluorouracil tablets online safely from trusted pharmacy sources and ensure timely refills to maintain your treatment progress.