Uses
Fluorouracil cream and topical solution are used to treat actinic or solar keratoses (scaly or crusted lesions [skin areas] caused by years of too much exposure to sunlight). Fluorouracil cream and topical solution are also used to treat a type of skin cancer called superficial basal cell carcinoma if usual types of treatment cannot be used. Fluorouracil topical is in a class of medications called antimetabolites. It works by killing fast-growing cells such as the abnormal cells in actinic keratoses and basal cell carcinoma.
Side Effects Of Fluorouracil Topical
Fluorouracil topical may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- burning, crusting, redness, discoloration, irritation, pain, itching, rash, or soreness at the site of application
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
Fluorouracil topical may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.
Warnings & Precautions
Before using fluorouracil topical:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fluorouracil topical or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially other topical medications. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency (a lack of a naturally occurring enzyme in your body).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using fluorouracil , call your doctor immediately. Fluorouracil topical can harm the fetus.
- plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV light (such as tanning booths) and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Fluorouracil may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
Fluorouracil Topical Dosage
Fluorouracil comes as a solution and a cream to apply to the skin. It is usually applied to the affected areas twice a day. To help you remember to use fluorouracil topical, apply it around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use fluorouracil topical exactly as directed. Do not apply more or less of it or apply it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If you are using fluorouracil topical to treat actinic or solar keratoses, you should continue using it until the lesions start to peel off. This usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks. However, the lesions may not be completely healed until 1 or 2 months after you stop using fluorouracil topical.
If you are using fluorouracil to treat basal cell carcinoma, you should continue using it until the lesions are gone. This usually takes at least 3 to 6 weeks, but may take as long as 10 to 12 weeks.
During the first few weeks of treatment, the skin lesions and surrounding areas will feel irritated and look red, swollen, and scaly. This is a sign that fluorouracil is working. Do not stop using fluorouracil unless your doctor has told you to do so.
Apply fluorouracil cream with a nonmetal applicator, a glove, or your finger. If you apply fluorouracil topical cream with your finger, be sure to wash your hands well immediately afterward. Do not cover the treated areas with a bandage or dressing unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not apply fluorouracil cream or topical solution to the eyelids or the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
