Fluorouracil (5-FU): Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects

Fluorouracil is a chemotherapy drug used in the treatment of many types of cancer, including esophageal, stomach and breast cancers. Fluorouracil is provided in either liquid (introduced in an injection or IV as liquid drip) or cream (as a topical solution used to treat skin cancer).

Things You'll Need

• Prescription for Fluorouracil

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Instructions

The Steps

• 1

  Obtain a prescription for Fluorouracil from your physician.

• 2

  Determine whether you are using the topical solution of Fluorouracil (for skin cancer), or the liquid form which has to be administered by an IV drip, or through an injection (for other types of cancer).

• 3

  If topical, apply Fluorouracil from a dispenser or tube under the prescription brand Efudex. Apply a small amount of Fluorouracil on the lesions in the morning and evening (twice daily), for a period of two to four weeks. Gloves are recommended. Wash hands thoroughly after application.

• 4

  If liquid use, Fluorouracil will be administered by a health care professional either in an IV drip, or an injection. Contact your physician to set up a treatment plan for administering this method of Fluorouracil.