What is fluorouracil topical?
Fluorouracil interferes with the growth of skin cells. Fluorouracil works by causing the death of
cells which are growing fastest, such as abnormal skin cells.
Fluorouracil topical is used to treat scaly overgrowths of skin (actinic or solar keratoses).
Fluorouracil topical may also be used in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma.
Fluorouracil topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking fluorouracil topical?
Before using fluorouracil topical, tell your doctor if you:
-
have ever had an allergic reaction to another form of fluorouracil
topical (Carac, Efudex, Fluoroplex) or injectable fluorouracil (Adrucil, 5-FU); or
-
have dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme
deficiency.
You may not be able to use fluorouracil topical, or you may require a
dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Fluorouracil topical is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that it is known to
harm an unborn baby. Miscarriage and birth defects have been reported when fluorouracil topical was
applied to mucous membrane areas by pregnant women.
Do not
use fluorouracil
topical if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Discuss with your doctor appropriate forms of birth
control before starting treatment with fluorouracil topical.
It is not known whether fluorouracil topical passes into breast milk.
Do not
use fluorouracil topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
The safety and effectiveness of fluorouracil topical in patients younger than 18 years of age
have not been established.
How should I take fluorouracil topical?
Use fluorouracil topical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these
directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Fluorouracil topical is available in a number of strengths and forms (creams and solutions). It is
very important that you use the correct form and strength. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you
have questions regarding which product to use.
Clean the area where you will apply fluorouracil topical. Rinse well and dry the area with a
towel and wait ten minutes before applying the medication.
Wash your hands before and immediately after applying this medication, unless it is being used
to treat a hand condition.
Apply fluorouracil topical to the affected area with the finger tips or a non-metal applicator,
smoothing it gently onto the affected skin. Use enough to cover the entire area with a thin film.
Fluorouracil topical should not be applied on the eyelids or in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Use
caution when applying fluorouracil topical around the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Do not use fluorouracil topical on skin that is irritated, peeling, or infected or on open
wounds. Wait until these conditions have fully healed before using fluorouracil topical.
Do not cover the area after applying fluorouracil topical. This could cause too much medicine to
be absorbed by the body and could be harmful. If a covering is needed, ask your doctor if a porous
gauze dressing may be used.
A moisturizer or sun screen may be applied 2 hours after fluorouracil topical has been applied.
Do not use any other skin products including creams, lotions, medications, or cosmetics unless
instructed by your doctor.
The reaction of the skin treated with fluorouracil topical may be unsightly during treatment, and
sometimes, for several weeks after completion of therapy.
Store fluorouracil topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose of fluorouracil topical?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next
dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not apply a
double dose of this medication.
Where can I get more information about fluorouracil topical?
Your pharmacist has information about fluorouracil topical written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of fluorouracil topical?
Serious side effects are not likely to occur. Stop using fluorouracil topical and seek
emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your
throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).
Fluorouracil topical may cause skin irritation, dryness, scaling or peeling (exfoliation), rash, and
other local reactions. Eye irritation has also been reported. If these side effects are excessive or worsen
with continued treatment, contact your doctor.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side
effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about fluorouracil topical?
Do not use fluorouracil topical on skin that is irritated, peeling, or infected or on open
wounds. Wait until these conditions have fully healed before using fluorouracil topical.
Fluorouracil topical is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that it is known to
harm an unborn baby. Miscarriage and birth defects have been reported when fluorouracil topical was
applied to mucous membrane areas by pregnant women.
Do not
use fluorouracil
topical if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Discuss with your doctor appropriate forms of birth
control before starting treatment with fluorouracil topical.
Fluorouracil topical is available in a number of strengths and forms (creams and solutions). It is
very important that you use the correct form and strength. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you
have questions regarding which product to use.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (e.g., sun lamps) during and immediately
following treatment with fluorouracil topical. Use a sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor
(SPF) 15 and wear protective clothing when sun exposure is unavoidable. Individuals with fair skin may
require a sunscreen with a higher SPF rating.
What should I avoid while taking fluorouracil topical?
Do not use other prescription or over-the-counter skin products without first talking to your
doctor during treatment with fluorouracil topical. They may interfere with the treatment or increase
irritation of the skin.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (e.g., sun lamps) during and immediately
following treatment with fluorouracil topical. Use a sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor
(SPF) 15 and wear protective clothing when sun exposure is unavoidable. Individuals with fair skin may
require a sunscreen with a higher SPF rating.
What other drugs will affect fluorouracil topical?
Do not use other prescription or over-the-counter skin products without first talking to your
doctor during treatment with fluorouracil topical. They may interfere with treatment or increase irritation
to the skin.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with fluorouracil topical. Talk to your
doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
What happens if I have an overdose of fluorouracil topical?
