Fluorouracil

Description

This page contains brief details about the drug fluorouracil, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Date of Approval

Fluorouracil contains the active ingredient Fluorouracil. It belongs to a class of drugs called antimetabolites, which interfere with the genetic material (DNA and RNA) synthesis of rapidly dividing cancer cells, leading to their death. This medication is commonly used to treat breast, colorectal, stomach, esophagus, and pancreatic cancers. It can be administered in different ways, including through injection or as a cream.

Fluorouracil (5-fluorouracil or 5-FU) was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1959 for treating colon and rectal cancer. Since then, it has been approved for treating other types of cancer, including breast, stomach, and pancreatic cancer. The drug is also approved in many other countries around the world. Over the years, many studies proved the effectiveness of fluorouracil in combination with other cancer treatments, and the drug continues to be an important chemotherapy medication for cancer patients.

Mechanism of Action of Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil work by interfering with the DNA and RNA synthesis of rapidly dividing cancer cells, leading to their death. It is an antimetabolite chemotherapy drug that mimics the structure of normal DNA and RNA building blocks. Still, its incorporation into DNA and RNA leads to errors in formation and causes damage to the DNA and RNA strands.

Uses of Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil is a chemotherapy medication commonly used to treat different types of cancer, including breast, colon, rectal, stomach, and pancreatic cancers. It works by interfering with the growth and division of cancer cells, ultimately causing them to die.

Fluorouracil Dosage available

Fluorouracil is a medication typically administered under a healthcare provider’s supervision, usually in a hospital or clinic setting. The method of administration can vary depending on the type of cancer and the individual patient’s condition. The injection can be given in a vein (intravenous) or muscle (intramuscular) injection. If a patient misses a scheduled dose, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately to determine the next steps. Sometimes, the missed dose may be rescheduled, or a new treatment plan may be recommended. It is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions closely and not make any changes to the treatment plan without first consulting with them. Patients should never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose, as this can increase the risk of side effects and toxicity.