Efudix

How does it work?

Fluorouracil is one of a group of anti-cancer medicines called 'cytotoxic antimetabolites'. Fluorouracil, applied as a cream, is used in the management of skin cancer and skin conditions which can develop into cancer (pre-malignant skin lesions). Cancers form when some cells within the body multiply uncontrollably and abnormally. These cells then spread and destroy nearby tissues. Fluorouracil acts by slowing this process down. It kills cancer cells by attaching to a chemical within the cell and preventing it from using vital nutrients and other substances necessary for normal activity. Fluorouracil cream does not damage normal healthy skin. However application of fluorouracil cream to damaged skin increases the risk and severity of adverse effects.

What is it used for?

A skin condition which is not cancerous but may eventually lead to skin cancer if untreated (pre-malignant skin lesion)

Skin cancer

Warning!

Avoid contact with mouth and mucous membranes.

For use only under specialist medical supervision

Avoid use on broken or inflamed skin.

Avoid contact of this medicine with the eyes.

Women who are pregnant should not handle this medicine.

Not to be used in

Previous hypersensitivity to use of this medicine

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Abnormal reaction of the skin to light, usually a rash (photosensitivity)

Allergic skin reactions

Severe skin rash (erythema multiforme)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?

Methotrexate may increase the risk of adverse skin reactions to fluorouracil cream

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