Efudex overview
BRAND NAMES:
Carac, Efudex, Fluoroplex, Tolak
Generic Names:
Fluorouracil
Uses:
Treats actinic or solar keratoses (rough, raised areas of skin heavily exposed to sun). Also treats basal cell carcinoma (skin cancer).
Therapeutic Classes:
Antineoplastic, Dermatological, Antineoplastic Agent
Forms:
Cream, Liquid
How it’s taken:
On the skin
What is Efudex used for?
What form(s) does Efudex come in
Cream
Liquid
What are common Efudex doses?
Tube 40GM of 5%
Common Efudex prescriptions
Efudex
40gm of 5% tube
How to take Efudex
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
Wash the skin to be treated with soap and water and wait 10 minutes before applying the medicine.
Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
You may use a glove, nonmetal applicator, or your fingers to apply this medicine.
Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
If your doctor tells you to use a bandage, use a gauze bandage with tape. A plastic bandage is more likely to cause skin irritation.
Wash the skin to be treated with soap and water and wait 10 minutes before applying the medicine.
Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
If your doctor tells you to use a bandage, use a gauze bandage with tape. A plastic bandage is more likely to cause skin irritation.
Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
You may use a glove, nonmetal applicator, or your fingers to apply this medicine.
What to do if you miss a dose of Efudex
Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Efudex contraindications
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to fluorouracil. Do not use this medicine if you are or may become pregnant. Do not use this medicine if you have dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency.
Efudex warnings
It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you are sensitive to preservatives, or if you have any other medical conditions.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
Stomach pain, or diarrhea that contains blood.
Efudex interactions
Topical application routeDo not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you are sensitive to preservatives, or if you have any other medical conditions.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
Efudex side effects
Serious Side Effects
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Fever, chills, or vomiting.
Severe skin rash or itching.
Stomach pain, or diarrhea that contains blood.
Pain where the medicine is put on.
Swelling, blistering, redness, or peeling of skin.
Less Serious Side Effects
Pain where the medicine is put on.
Eye burning, itching, stinging, or watering.
Swelling, blistering, redness, or peeling of skin.
Hair loss.
Change in skin color where medicine is put on.
Mild skin itching or burning.
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