Why is Efudex prescribed?

Fluorouracil (Efudex) cream is prescribed for the treatment of actinic or solar keratoses. It is also used in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer) when other treatment methods are not possible.

What does it do?

Actinic or solar keratoses are rough and scaly patches that form on your skin after years of sun exposure. The patches are usually found on the face, back of your hands, arms, on the scalp, or neck. Fluorouracil belongs to a drug class called antimetabolites and it works by destroying or killing cells that are rapidly growing such as the cells in actinic or solar keratoses and basal cell carcinoma.

How should I apply it?

Efudex and its generic equivalents are currently available as a 5% cream which is intended to be applied externally onto the skin. Avoid getting Efudex into your eyes or mouth.

Wash your hands thoroughly before and immediately after (except when you are treating a hand condition) handling the medication. Wash the area to be treated and pat dry with a clean cloth. Wait for 10 minutes before applying Efudex. You may use a glove, your fingertips, or a non-metal applicator to apply Efudex. Rub it gently onto the affected area until a thin film covers the area.

The dosage strength depends on every patient’s condition and the doctor’s prescription. It is imperative that you do not self-medicate and only use this drug after consulting with your doctor or pharmacist to determine the best dosage and dosing schedule for the treatment of your condition.

What if I missed a dose?

The desired effects of prescribed medications will only be achieved if used properly. As much as possible, strictly follow your doctor’s prescribed dosing schedule. However, if you miss a dose, apply it immediately and adjust the time of your next dose depending on your doctor’s advice. Never apply two doses at the same time just to make up for your missed dose.

What are the special precautions before applying Efudex?

Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, your current and previous medical history, and any allergic reactions to Efudex or any other ingredients included in the manufacture of this medication.

Do not apply Efudex cream to cuts or broken, sunburned, or irritated skin.

Using Efudex cream may cause your skin to be more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid exposing yourself to excessive amounts of sunlight and wear protective clothing, sunscreen, and use sunglasses when going outdoors.

For the drug label information of Efudex, click here.

Does it have any side effects?

It is important to note that all drugs have corresponding side effects and adverse reactions. Additional information may be obtained when you ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects include:
• Mild irritation
• Mild rashes
• Peeling of the skin
• Redness of the skin
• Skin darkening or scarring

Serious side effects include:
• Burning sensation on the skin
• Chills
• Fever
• Open skin sores
• Severe itching or irritation
• Severe pain or swelling
• Severe rashes
• Shedding of dead skin

Is it safe to use it with another drug?

Some drug interactions may cause life-threatening reactions when taken with other medications. Immediately inform your doctor if you are taking Efudex with any of the following medications:

• Abametapir
• Abciximab
• Adenosine
• Advair
• Albenza
• Atacand
• Belinostat
• Bemiparin
• Benzthiazide
• Bexarotene
• Breo Ellipta
• Carboplatin
• Clemastine
• Cyclizine
• Dantrolene
• Dapsone
• Desflurane
• Dicumarol
• Diprolene
• Eperisone
• Fluocortolone
• Hytone
• Ifosfamide
• Ketotifen
• Lamisil
• Lariam
• Lidoderm
• Meprednisone
• Methimazole
• Pilocarpine
• Tambocor
• Xarelto
• Xeloda
• Zovirax
• Zyprexa

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for other possible interactions not listed within this section.

How should I store it?

Store Efudex in its container in a clean environment away from excessive heat and moisture.

What action should I take in case of overdose?

Immediately call an ambulance and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further complications or possible death.

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

Present data suggest that the use of Efudex in pregnant women is contraindicated. It should not be used when pregnancy is confirmed as it can cause harm to the fetus.

There is limited data on the presence of Efudex in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. Hence, the potential risks and benefits of using Efudex in pregnant or breastfeeding women should be carefully considered.

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