Efudex

Generic name: Fluorouracil

Why is Efudex prescribed?

Efudex and Carac are prescribed for the treatment of actinic or solar keratoses (small red horny growths or flesh-colored wartlike growths caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation or the sun). Such growths may develop into skin cancer. When conventional methods are impractical—as when the affected sites are hard to get at—the 5 percent strength of Efudex is useful in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinomas, or slow-growing malignant tumors of the face usually found at the edge of the nostrils, eyelids, or lips. Efudex is available in cream and solution forms. Carac comes in cream form only.

Most important fact about Efudex

If you use an airtight dressing to cover the skin being treated, there may be inflammatory reactions in the normal skin around the treated area. If it is necessary to cover the treated area, use a porous gauze dressing to avoid skin reactions.

How should you take Efudex?

Use care when applying these products around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Wash your hands immediately after applying this medication.

• If you miss a dose...
  Apply it as soon as you remember. If more than a few hours have passed, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. If you miss more than 1 dose, contact your doctor.

• Storage instructions...
  Store away from heat, light, and moisture.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Efudex.

• Side effects may include:
  Burning, discoloration of the skin, itching, pain

If you develop symptoms of a severe allergic reaction—including abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and chills—stop taking Efudex and contact your doctor immediately. You may have a condition known as DPD enzyme deficiency.

Why should Efudex not be prescribed?