Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil is a prescription medication given by injection or infusion to treat several types of cancer, including colon, breast, stomach, and pancreatic cancers. It works by targeting rapidly growing cells to stop them from multiplying, helping to control the spread of the disease. Your medical team will determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific diagnosis.

Because Fluorouracil is given parenterally, your healthcare team will schedule your treatment in regular cycles. Staying consistent with these scheduled clinic appointments is vital for the treatment to work effectively. While undergoing treatment, making simple lifestyle adjustments—such as drinking plenty of water and eating soft, gentle foods—can help your body cope with the therapy.

While receiving Fluorouracil, you may experience some common side effects like mild nausea or fatigue. However, it can also cause serious issues such as severe diarrhea, mouth sores, or a significant drop in your white blood cell count. If you experience any severe symptoms, fever, or signs of an infection, you must contact your doctor immediately.

Do not take this if you have a complete deficiency of an enzyme called DPD (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase), as this can lead to severe, life-threatening side effects. Talk to your doctor before starting Fluorouracil if you have a history of bone marrow suppression, poor nutrition, or liver damage. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must not receive Fluorouracil, as it can harm the developing baby.

This treatment can interact with other medicines, such as certain blood thinners and vaccines, which can increase your risk of bleeding or cause severe infections. Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication and should be monitored closely during therapy. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting treatment.

Fluorouracil helps treat certain types of cancer by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. As part of a comprehensive cancer treatment plan, it helps control disease progression and supports improved treatment outcomes. Benefits may include:

• Helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.
• Supports the treatment of various cancers as prescribed by your doctor.
• May help shrink tumours and limit the spread of cancer.
• Helps relieve symptoms caused by tumour growth, such as pain or obstruction.
• Supports better disease control and overall treatment effectiveness.
• Contributes to improved quality of life when used as part of an appropriate cancer treatment plan.

• Follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and timing of Fluorouracil to ensure safe and effective use.
• Fluorouracil will be administered by a doctor or nurse in a hospital.
• Do not self-administer it.

Common Side Effects (Usually mild):

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Temporary thinning of the hair
• Mild fatigue or weakness
• Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away):

• Severe, watery diarrhea (more than 4 bowel movements a day above your normal)
• Painful mouth sores, redness, or ulcers in the mouth and throat
• Signs of infection, such as a fever over 100.4°F (38°C), chills, or sore throat
• Unusual bruising, bleeding from the gums, or nosebleeds
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat
• Severe peeling, redness, or pain on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet