5-Flourouracil - For the Treatment of Cancer

Description
It is chemotherapy given for the treatment of cancer. It should not be taken if you have DPD (dihydropyrimidine  cehydrogenase) deficiency.

How It Is Given

It is injected into a vein either over a short period or by continuous infusion over hours.  It may also be used as topical creams.

 

Common Side Effects

• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Flu-like symptoms
• Mouth sores
• Darkening of skin especially on face and palms of hands
• Darkness along vein in which it is given
• Dry skin
• Metal taste in mouth
• Nasal irritation
• Reduced blood count
• Weakness or achiness
• Pain/swelling/redness palms of hands/soles of feet

Less Common Side Effects

• Nausea or vomiting
• Hair thinning may occur, but is not permanent
• Watery eyes
• Skin rash
• Splitting of fingernails
• Abdominal cramps
• Problems with coordination

Call Your Health Care Provider if You Develop

• Mouth sores, trouble eating or drinking
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting not controlled by medicine
• Problems with coordination
• Temperature above 100.5°F