Fluorouracil
Generic Name: fluorouracil
Brand Names:
Fluorouracil
Fluorouracil is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor available as colorless to faint yellow sterile injectable solution containing 50 mg/mL for intravenous administration.
Overview
Fluorouracil is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor available as colorless to faint yellow sterile injectable solution containing 50 mg/mL for intravenous administration.
Uses
Indicated for adenocarcinoma treatment of colon, rectum, breast, gastric, and pancreatic cancers.
Dosage
Administer intravenously as bolus or infusion. Dosing varies by cancer type: colon/rectum 400 mg/m2 bolus plus 2400-3000 mg/m2 infusion; breast 500-600 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8; gastric 200-1000 mg/m2 continuous infusion; pancreatic 400 mg/m2 bolus plus 2400 mg/m2 infusion.
Side Effects
Serious: myelosuppression, mucositis, diarrhea, hand-foot syndrome, cardiotoxicity, hyperammonemic encephalopathy, neurologic toxicity. Postmarketing: gastrointestinal ulceration, anaphylaxis, photosensitivity, nail changes.
Interactions
Warfarin: elevated coagulation times possible. Fluorouracil may inhibit CYP2C9, increasing warfarin concentrations. Monitor INR closely.
Warnings
WARNING: SERIOUS ADVERSE REACTIONS OR DEATH IN PATIENTS WITH COMPLETE DPD DEFICIENCY. Test patients for genetic variants of DPYD prior to initiating fluorouracil. Avoid use in complete DPD deficiency. Monitor for cardiotoxicity, encephalopathy, neurologic events, severe diarrhea, mucositis, and myelosuppression.
Pregnancy
Category D. Animal studies show teratogenicity. Causes fetal harm; contraindicated in pregnancy. Advise effective contraception during and 3 months post-treatment. Discontinue nursing or discontinue drug.
Storage
Store at 20C-25C (68F-77F). Protect from light. Retain in carton. Follow cytotoxic drug handling procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fluorouracil used for?▼
Indicated for adenocarcinoma treatment of colon, rectum, breast, gastric, and pancreatic cancers.
What are the side effects of Fluorouracil?▼
Serious: myelosuppression, mucositis, diarrhea, hand-foot syndrome, cardiotoxicity, hyperammonemic encephalopathy, neurologic toxicity. Postmarketing: gastrointestinal ulceration, anaphylaxis, photosensitivity, nail changes.
Can I take Fluorouracil during pregnancy?▼
Category D. Animal studies show teratogenicity. Causes fetal harm; contraindicated in pregnancy. Advise effective contraception during and 3 months post-treatment. Discontinue nursing or discontinue drug.
What are the important warnings for Fluorouracil?▼
WARNING: SERIOUS ADVERSE REACTIONS OR DEATH IN PATIENTS WITH COMPLETE DPD DEFICIENCY. Test patients for genetic variants of DPYD prior to initiating fluorouracil. Avoid use in complete DPD deficiency. Monitor for cardiotoxicity, encephalopathy, neurologic events, severe diarrhea, mucositis, and myelosuppression.
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Medical Disclaimer
This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.