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USES: Fluorouracil is one of a large group of drugs known as "antineoplastics"; these drugs are also known as cancer drugs, chemotherapy or "chemo". They are used in the treatment of various cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. A combination of different types of cancer drugs will often be used to achieve better results and minimize side effects.
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Overview | Photos | How
To Use | Side
Effects | Precautions | Missed
Dose | Drug
Interactions | |
Adrucil
Uses
Fluorouracil is one of a large group of drugs known as "antineoplastics"; these drugs are also known as cancer drugs, chemotherapy or "chemo". They are used in the treatment of various cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. A combination of different types of cancer drugs will often be used to achieve better results and minimize side effects. Notes
- This medication can lower your body's ability to fight an infection.
- Notify your doctor if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, sore throat, rash or chills.
- Avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands.
- Regular doctor visits are important.
- Frequent blood tests will be done to monitor therapy.
- Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured.
- Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
- Protect from light.
Photos How
To Use - HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This is a potent medication.
- Use it exactly as prescribed, with daily doses up to 800 mg.
- Do not stop receiving treatments with this medication, even if you feel nauseated or vomiting occurs.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Follow all directions.
Side
Effects - Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, rash, itchy or dry skin and weakness are common side effects.
- Using the drug on an empty stomach may help relieve vomiting.
- Changes in diet, such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects.
- In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea or vomiting.
- Temporary hair loss is another common side effect; normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.
- Contact your doctor, without delay, if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, chills; painful or difficult urination; stomach cramps, diarrhea, heartburn; chest pain; easy bruising or bleeding, black, tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, pinpoint red spots on the skin; lower back or side pain, sores in mouth or on lips; trouble with balance, cough, shortness of breath.
- If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Tell your doctor your medical history, including any allergies (especially drug allergies), any blood disorders (bone marrow problems) or serious infections.
- Birth control measures are recommended for use in men and women while using this medication.
- This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
- Consult your doctor before using this drug.
- It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk.
- Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.
Missed
Dose - Do not double dose if missed.
- Contact your doctor.
Drug
Interactions - Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription drugs you use, especially leucovorin or any other cancer drugs (antineoplastics).
- Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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CONDITIONS
OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information
is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions
or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular
drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional
should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or
discontinuing any course of treatment. |