Fluorouracil (5-FU): A Medication Profile
Summary or Key Points
Fluorouracil, often known by its generic name 5-FU, is a potent chemotherapy medication used primarily in the treatment of various types of cancer. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Fluorouracil, including dosing guidelines, potential side effects, and how to administer it. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized treatment guidance, or schedule an immediate telemedicine appointment with our team.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Adrucil (Fluorouracil)
The term ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name for the active ingredient in a medication. In this case, Fluorouracil is the generic name, and it is listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category
Fluorouracil falls under the pharmacologic category of Antimetabolite Chemotherapy. Other drugs in this category include Methotrexate, Gemcitabine, and Cytarabine.
Dosing
The following are the diseases that Fluorouracil is indicated to treat in adults, along with their respective dosing recommendations. Please consult with your healthcare provider or schedule a telemedicine appointment with our providers before adjusting your dose.
- Colon Cancer: 500 mg/m² intravenously once daily, typically administered for 5 days in a row in 28-day cycles until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
- Rectal Cancer: 500 mg/m² intravenously once daily, typically administered for 5 days in a row in 28-day cycles until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
- Breast Cancer: 500 mg/m² intravenously once daily, usually given in 21-day cycles until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
- Gastric Cancer: 800-1000 mg/m² intravenously once daily, generally given in 21-day cycles until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
- Pancreatic Cancer: 1000 mg/m² intravenously once daily, usually given in 21-day cycles until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Fluorouracil is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Injection solution: 50 mg/mL
- Cream: 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5%
Administration Instructions
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
Like all medications, Fluorouracil can cause side effects. The severity and frequency of these side effects can vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider or schedule a telemedicine appointment with our providers if you experience any unusual or severe side effects.
Contraindications
A contraindication refers to a condition or factor that increases the risk associated with using a medical treatment, like a medication. It is advisable not to use the treatment in the presence of certain contraindications. Below are conditions where Fluorouracil is contraindicated:
- Poor Nutritional Status: Fluorouracil may exacerbate nutritional deficiencies due to its impact on the digestive system.
- Bone Marrow Suppression: As Fluorouracil can inhibit bone marrow function, it should not be used in patients with pre-existing bone marrow suppression.
- Known Hypersensitivity to Fluorouracil: Patients known to have an allergic reaction to Fluorouracil should not use it to prevent severe allergic reactions.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Fluorouracil can interact with other medications, which could influence its effectiveness or side effect profile. Here are some key drugs that interact with Fluorouracil:
- Leucovorin (Wellcovorin, Folonic Acid)
- Warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)
- Phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek)
Fluorouracil in Pregnancy
Fluorouracil is classified as a pregnancy category D drug, meaning there is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data. Therefore, it is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Always consult with your healthcare provider or schedule a telemedicine appointment with our providers for personalized advice.
Fluorouracil while Breastfeeding
Fluorouracil can be excreted into breast milk and potentially harm a nursing infant. As such, it is generally recommended to avoid this medication while breastfeeding. Please consult your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team for more personalized advice.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Fluorouracil without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $50 to $100, depending on the pharmacy and the form/strength of the medication.
Possible Alternatives
For each of the diseases that Fluorouracil is used to treat, there are possible alternative treatments or lifestyle changes that might help. It is important to discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider or schedule a telemedicine appointment with our providers before making any changes to your treatment plan.
Recent Updates on Fluorouracil Research
Recent research has been exploring the potential of combining Fluorouracil with other chemotherapy drugs to improve treatment outcomes for certain types of cancer. Ongoing studies are also examining the genetic factors that may influence a patient’s response to Fluorouracil, potentially leading to more personalized treatment strategies. As research continues, the understanding of Fluorouracil’s effects and applications is expected to grow.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.