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Efudex

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Efudex

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Efudex Drug Center

Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP

Efudex (fluorouracil) topical is used to treat scaly overgrowths of skin (actinic or solar keratoses). It may also be used in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma. It works by works by causing the death of cells that are growing fastest, such as abnormal skin cells. This medication is available in generic form. Common side effects include skin irritation, burning, redness, dryness, pain, swelling, tenderness, or changes in skin color at the site of application. Eye irritation (e.g., stinging, watering), trouble sleeping, irritability, temporary hair loss, or abnormal taste in the mouth may also occur.

The dose of Efudex topical is to apply a small amount of the cream to the area that is to be treated, once or twice daily after cleansing. Treatment lasts 2-6 weeks depending on the condition being treated. Wash hands immediately afterward. Do not use other prescription or over-the-counter skin products without first talking to your doctor during treatment with Efudex topical. They may interfere with treatment or increase irritation to the skin. Other drugs may also interact with Efudex topical. Talk to your doctor before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines. Efudex topical must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm a fetus. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to a nursing infant, breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

Our Efudex (fluorouracil) Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information as well as related drugs, user reviews, supplements, and diseases and conditions articles.

What is Prescribing information?

The FDA package insert formatted in easy-to-find categories for health professionals and clinicians.

Efudex Prescribing Information: Indications & Dosage

Efudex (fluorouracil) is recommended for the topical treatment of multiple actinic or solar keratoses. In the 5% strength it is also useful in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinomas when conventional methods are impractical, such as with multiple lesions or difficult treatment sites. Safety and efficacy in other indications have not been established.

The diagnosis should be established prior to treatment, since this method has not been proven effective in other types of basal cell carcinomas. With isolated, easily accessible basal cell carcinomas, surger...

Read the complete drug monograph for Efudex »

What is Patient information?

Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.

Efudex Patient Information: Side Effects

Serious side effects are not likely to occur. Stop using fluorouracil topical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).

Fluorouracil topical may cause skin irritation, dryness, scaling or peeling (exfoliation), rash, and other local reactions. Eye irritation has also been reported. If these side effects are excessive or worsen with continued treatment, contact your doctor.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doc...

Read the complete patient information for Efudex »

What is Consumer information?

A concise overview of the drug for the patient or caregiver from First DataBank.

Efudex Consumer Information: Uses

This medication is used on the skin to treat pre-cancerous and cancerous skin growths. Fluorouracil belongs to a class of medications known as anti-metabolites. It works by blocking the growth of abnormal cells that cause the skin condition.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Use this medication as directed by your doctor. Before you apply this medication to the skin, clean ...

Read the complete consumer information for Efudex »

What is Efudex Consumer Information?

Warnings - Uses - How to Use - Side Effects - Precautions - Drug Interactions and More

Efudex - User Reviews

Efudex User Reviews

Now you can gain knowledge and insight about a drug treatment with Patient Discussions.

Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Efudex sorted by most helpful. Patient Discussions FAQs

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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