5-Flourouracil - For the Treatment of Cancer
Description
It is chemotherapy given for the treatment of cancer. It should not be taken if you have DPD (dihydropyrimidine cehydrogenase) deficiency.
How It Is Given
It is injected into a vein either over a short period or by continuous infusion over hours. It may also be used as topical creams.
Common Side Effects
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Flu-like symptoms
- Mouth sores
- Darkening of skin especially on face and palms of hands
- Darkness along vein in which it is given
- Dry skin
- Metal taste in mouth
- Nasal irritation
- Reduced blood count
- Weakness or achiness
- Pain/swelling/redness palms of hands/soles of feet
Less Common Side Effects
- Nausea or vomiting
- Hair thinning may occur, but is not permanent
- Watery eyes
- Skin rash
- Splitting of fingernails
- Abdominal cramps
- Problems with coordination
Call Your Health Care Provider if You Develop
- Mouth sores, trouble eating or drinking
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting not controlled by medicine
- Problems with coordination
- Temperature above 100.5°F
Special Concerns
Do not stay in the sun for long periods of time because your skin is more sensitive to the sun. It may burn more easily than normal. When in the sun, use a sunscreen lotion with a SPF of 15 or greater and protective clothing.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 05/23/2012
Reproduced with permission from the 1989-2011 United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc. Printed in 9/2011 by the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority, Department of Nursing, Madison WI. UWH #5534
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