Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 10, 2022.
It is recommended that fluorouracil be given only by or under the supervision of a qualified physician who is experienced in cancer chemotherapy and who is well versed in the use of potent antimetabolites. It is also recommended that patients be hospitalized at least during the initial treatment course because of the possibility of severe toxic reactions .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Adrucil
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antineoplastic Agent
Pharmacologic Class: Antimetabolite
Uses for fluorouracil
Fluorouracil belongs to the group of medicines known as antimetabolites. It is used to treat cancer of the colon, rectum, breast, stomach, and pancreas. It may also be used to treat other kinds of cancer, as determined by your doctor.
Fluorouracil interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal body cells may also be affected by fluorouracil, other effects will also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects, like hair loss, may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may not occur for months or years after the medicine is used.
Before you begin treatment with fluorouracil, you and your doctor should talk about the good fluorouracil will do as well as the risks of using it.
Fluorouracil is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.
Before using fluorouracil
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For fluorouracil, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to fluorouracil or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Although there is no specific information comparing us..
