Fluorouracil Cream

About fluorouracil cream

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antimetabolites.

Fluorouracil cream is used in the management of skin cancer and skin conditions, which can develop into cancer (pre-malignant skin lesions).

Fluorouracil works by preventing the growth and division of cells and therefore stops them increasing in numbers.

Fluorouracil is available in cream form.

It is also sometimes known as: Efudix. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using fluorouracil cream

Before using fluorouracil make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to use Fluorouracil cream

• Use your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has used an excessive amount of Fluorouracil contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before using any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside fluorouracil.
• You must keep your regular appointments with the doctor or hospital so your progress can be checked.
• If fluorouracil cream has been prescribed for use on your face, apply it very carefully to avoid getting any in your eyes, nose or mouth, and wash your hands after applying.
• While you are using fluorouracil cream, and for one to two months afterwards, your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Avoid bright sunlight and sunbeds and use a sun cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.

Can fluorouracil cream cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects become troublesome.

Redness, soreness, scaling and peeling of the affected skin after one or two weeks. This is to be expected and may continue for several weeks after you stop using the cream. Sometimes a smooth, pink area is left when the skin treated with fluorouracil cream heals, this usually fades after one to two months.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store fluorouracil cream

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from food, direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 14/09/2005