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Efudex is a topical chemotherapy treatment for basal cell carcinoma. It works by stopping cells from developing and is effective, especially when combined with surgical lesion removal. Common side effects include skin rash and irritation. Less frequently, more severe side effects can occur. Efudex should not be used by those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to the medication, or have certain health conditions.
If your doctor okays it, you may be able to ease side effects of Efudex by applying a petroleum-based moisturizer such as Aquaphor or Vaseline or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone. These treatments may not be appropriate for everyone, though.
Yes. Efudex is an antimetabolite, a type of chemotherapy drug that stops cells' DNA from copying itself so cancer cells cannot reproduce. They’re used to treat leukemias, cancers of the breast, ovary, and the intestinal tract, as well as other types of cancer.
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Specific side effects that usually do not require medical attention include:
Of course, report any side effects to a healthcare professional if they persist or are bothersome. If you experience more serious side effects, inform your healthcare provider as soon as possible. These include:
Avoid sunlight as much as possible while using Efudex since it may increase your side effects. If exposed to the sun, wear a hat and use sunscreen.
Fluorouracil cream must not be used during pregnancy because it has been shown to cause birth breastfeeding, to minimise the chance of excretion in breast milk and subsequent risk to the nursing infant.
Due to interaction with sunlight, it is best to use fluorouracil cream during the winter months. Treated skin should normally be very carefully protected from the sun, stay indoors during the middle part of the day. If the treated area is inadvertently exposed to the sun, the reaction to fluorouracil is more vigorous than normal.
There have been several reports of detrimental effects on pets following accidental ingestion of fluorouracil. Keep tubes out of reach, wash hands thoroughly after application, and do not allow pets to lick areas of application.