0

Home > Drug Category > Skin Medications (Topical/Oral) > Efudex Cream and Equivalent

Efudex Information

Efudex (fluorouracil) is a specialized topical antineoplastic agent used for the treatment of various skin conditions, including actinic or solar keratoses and certain types of superficial basal cell carcinomas. Fluorouracil is a pyrimidine analogue, which means it is a synthetic compound that mimics a natural building block of DNA and RNA. Its primary mechanism of action involves interfering with the synthesis of both DNA and RNA, which are essential for cell proliferation. By disrupting these fundamental cellular processes, Efudex effectively leads to the death of rapidly dividing cells. This selective action allows the medication to target and destroy the precancerous and cancerous cells found in skin lesions while having a significantly lesser effect on normal, healthy skin cells. The treatment course with Efudex often involves a predictable and intense local skin reaction, which is a key indicator that the medication is working. This reaction may include visible signs of inflammation, blistering, and erosion as the abnormal cells are destroyed and the body begins to heal.

Efudex Side Effects

The most common side effects of Efudex are generally localized to the area where it is applied. They are a direct and expected part of the treatment process. These reactions, which signify the medication's effectiveness, include inflammation, a burning sensation, pain, redness, scaling, tenderness, crusting, and erosion of the skin. Some less frequent but reported local side effects include paresthesia (tingling or prickling sensation), insomnia, irritability, and a medicinal taste in the mouth. Your skin may also be more sensitive to sunlight (photosensitivity).

While these side effects are a regular part of therapy, it is essential to monitor for more severe and potentially systemic side effects. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the serious side effects listed below:
• Severe skin reactions: Although a local reaction is expected, a severe skin reaction characterized by intense inflammation, blistering, or ulceration that spreads beyond the treated area can be a serious issue and requires immediate medical attention.
• Systemic absorption: In rare cases, particularly when the medication is applied to vast areas or on broken skin, systemic absorption can occur, leading to a risk of severe, widespread side effects. Symptoms of systemic toxicity may include blood disorders, such as a dangerously low white blood cell count, as well as inflammation of the mouth (stomatitis), severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible. If you experience symptoms such as a widespread rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, seek emergency medical care.

Efudex Precautions

To ensure the safe and effective use of Efudex, it is essential to follow all precautions. Do not use this medication if you have a known allergy to fluorouracil or any of the product's other ingredients. Efudex is strictly for external use. It is imperative to avoid contact with the eyes, nose, mouth, and other mucous membranes, as well as broken or severely inflamed skin, as it can cause severe irritation. A critical precaution for Efudex is its contraindication in patients with a dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency. This genetic deficiency can prevent the body from metabolizing fluorouracil effectively, leading to a buildup of the drug and a risk of severe and potentially fatal systemic toxicity. Use with caution in patients with a history of liver or kidney disease.

It is essential to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and any herbal supplements. Efudex can interact with other topical medications.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should discuss the use of Efudex with your doctor. Efudex is classified as Pregnancy Category X, meaning it is known to cause birth defects. It is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to use effective contraception to avoid pregnancy during treatment. Additionally, inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding. It is not known whether fluorouracil is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for severe adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, considering the importance of the drug to the mother.

Do I need a prescription to order Efudex Cream?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Efudex Cream.