Fluorouracil

Uses of Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil is commonly used to treat blood cancer, bone cancer, breast cancer, cancer of colon and rectum, cervical cancer, head and neck cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, stomach cancer, urinary bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, heart transplant rejection and liver transplant rejection. It is also being used to prevent kidney transplant rejection.

How Fluorouracil Works

Fluorouracil works by blocking the conversion of deoxyuridylic acid to thymidylic acid and thus interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis. As a result, there is an unbalanced growth of the cells. Fluorouracil greatly affects the rapidly growing cells as they can take up the drug at a faster rate.

Side Effects of Fluorouracil

Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal ulceration, Stomatitis, Nausea, Vomiting, Rash, Leucopenia, Thrombocytopenia, Hyperpigmentation, Hemorrhage from any site

Information About Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil is a pyrimidine antimetabolite used to treat colorectal, breast, gastric, and head and neck cancers, and topically for actinic keratoses and skin cancers in Singapore. Available as an intravenous infusion under oncology supervision or as a 5% topical cream applied to affected skin twice daily for two to four weeks, it is HSA-registered and available on prescription only in Singapore. Patients with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency are at risk of severe life-threatening toxicity from standard doses — DPD testing before systemic fluorouracil therapy is recommended where available. A valid doctor's consultation is required before dispensing. Order Fluorouracil online at DoctorOnCall Singapore with same-day delivery available. Speak to a DoctorOnCall physician today to check if Fluorouracil is right for you.

Fluorouracil is a medication commonly used to treat certain types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, gastric, and skin cancers. It works by interfering with the growth and division of rapidly multiplying cells, helping slow or stop the spread of cancer cells. Fluorouracil belongs to a class of medications known as antimetabolite chemotherapy agents and is widely used in oncology and dermatological care. Find affordable Fluorouracil options from trusted brands at DoctorOnCall.

Conclusion

Consult our doctors online for safe and effective use of Fluorouracil tailored to your health needs. Find the best prices for affordable Fluorouracil injections and topical creams at DoctorOnCall Singapore.

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

It is important to practice caution when using Fluorouracil in patients with renal impairment as there is an increased risk of hyperammonemia and hyperammonemic encephalopathy.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to use Fluorouracil with alcohol. There are studies which suggested that alcohol consumption may reduce the anticancer activity of Fluorouracil.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Women of childbearing age should avoid getting pregnant and use contraception while using Fluorouracil until 6 months after discontinuing Fluorouracil. If Fluorouracil is used during pregnancy, the patients should be informed on the potential risks to the fetus and genetic counseling is suggested. There are limited human studies though fatal defects and miscarriages have been demonstrated. Despite the risks, potential benefits may allow the usage of Fluorouracil in pregnant women.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Fluorouracil may cause side effects such as dizziness or nausea, vomiting or visual disturbances, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Liver Limited Data

It is important to practice caution when using Fluorouracil in patients with liver impairment as there is an increased risk of hyperammonemia and hyperammonemic encephalopathy.

Lactation Limited Data

There is limited data on the usage of Fluorouracil while breastfeeding. Since it remained unknown whether it is excreted into breast milk, breastfeeding must be discontinued when the mother is started on Fluorouracil.

Written by

Dr. Adeline Carol Peters, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) — Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Reviewed by

Dr. Mohd Izzat Amir Bin Awang, Doctor of Medicine (MD), University of Mansoura - Manchester