Efudix (Fluorouracil)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Efudix Used For?
Efudix is a topical anti-cancer medicine that contains fluorouracil. It’s specifically designed to treat certain skin conditions caused by sun damage or abnormal cell growth.
Primary Uses
Efudix treats solar keratoses (also called actinic keratoses or sunspots) – rough, red, scaly spots caused by too much sun exposure, commonly found on the face, nose, ears, chest, forearms, and back of hands. It also treats Bowen’s disease, a type of skin cancer that causes small patches of scaly red skin, most commonly on the lower leg.
How It Works
Efudix works by destroying precancerous and cancerous cells while having little effect on normal, healthy cells. This targeted approach helps eliminate problematic skin cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
Good to know: Solar keratoses are usually harmless, but there’s a small risk they may eventually turn into skin cancer, which is why treatment is important.
How to Take Efudix
Efudix is a topical cream that must be applied carefully following your doctor’s specific instructions. Proper application technique is crucial for effective treatment.
Dosage Instructions
Apply once or twice daily as advised by your doctor. Wash the treatment area with lukewarm water (avoid soap), pat dry with soft white paper towel, wait 15 minutes for complete drying. Using a non-metal applicator, cotton bud, or rubber glove, apply a thin film and smooth gently onto affected skin. Apply in morning and late afternoon/early evening, at least 1.5-2 hours before bedtime. Continue treatment for 3-4 weeks until ulceration stage. The total treatment area should not exceed 500 sq cm (23cm x 23cm) at any time.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss your usual dose and it’s almost time for the next one, skip the missed dose and apply your next dose at the regular time. Do not try to make up for the missed dose by applying more the next time.
Important: Never apply more than prescribed. Wash hands thoroughly immediately after use and avoid contact with eyes, eyelids, nostrils, or mouth.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- soreness and pain
- itchiness and irritation
- darkening or reddening of the skin
- burning sensation
- crusting
- increased sensitivity to sun
- rash
- dermatitis
- scarring
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- stomach problems (severe pain, cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting)
- swelling and soreness of mouth and tongue
- fever and chills
- severe pain or ulceration at application site
Important Warnings
Before using Efudix, it’s essential to understand who should not use this medication and what conditions require special medical supervision.
Who Should Not Take Efudix
Do not use if you’re allergic to fluorouracil or any ingredients in the cream, or if you have dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have inflammatory skin conditions like chloasma (skin darkening during pregnancy) or rosacea (chronic rash), work outside for long periods during the day, or take any other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use Efudix if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it may affect your developing baby. If you become pregnant while using Efudix, stop immediately and tell your doctor. Nursing mothers should avoid using Efudix as it’s unknown if the active ingredient passes into breast milk.
Sun Exposure Warning: UV radiation from sun or tanning salons may increase the intensity of skin reactions where Efudix is applied.
Drug Interactions
Some medicines may interfere with Efudix and affect how it works. Always inform your healthcare providers about all medications you’re taking.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, or supplements you take
- Some medicines may interfere with Efudix effectiveness
- Check with doctor or pharmacist if unsure about medication interactions
Alcohol & Driving
While Efudix is applied topically, there are important considerations about daily activities during treatment.
Alcohol
No specific alcohol restrictions mentioned for topical Efudix use.
Driving and Operating Machinery
No specific driving restrictions mentioned, but be aware that treatment may cause discomfort that could affect concentration.
Sun Protection
Limit sun exposure during and immediately after treatment. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily before going outdoors, except directly on treatment area. Wear wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and long pants for additional protection.
Storage
Store Efudix below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from heat, moisture, and sunlight. Do not store in bathroom, near sink, in car, or on window sills. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Take expired or unwanted medicine to any pharmacy for safe disposal.
Overdose Information
If you think you’ve used too much Efudix, seek urgent medical attention immediately. Call the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26), contact your doctor, or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, even if you have no symptoms of discomfort or poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Treatment typically continues for 3-4 weeks until the ulceration stage. The healing process is usually complete 1-2 months after treatment ends. You may see redness within 3-5 days, followed by blistering and peeling within 11-14 days.
Expect your appearance to look worse and feel uncomfortable during treatment. This includes redness, blistering, peeling, cracking, and occasional open sores. The treated skin will flake away, and some redness may continue after stopping Efudix.
Avoid using cosmetics or other topical medications, including sunscreens, directly on the treatment area unless directed by your doctor. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen everywhere else except the treatment area.
You may continue to shave but take care not to cut your skin in the treatment area. As facial skin becomes inflamed, you may prefer using an electric razor or clipping facial hair instead of a conventional razor.
Yes, Efudix may be fatal if ingested by pets. Don’t allow pets to contact the container or your treated skin. Safely discard any cloth or applicator that may retain Efudix and avoid leaving residues on hands, clothing, or furniture.
Efudix is highly irritating to eyes and sensitive skin. Be very careful not to let it contact your eyes, eyelids, nostrils, or mouth. If contact occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Do not cover the treated area unless your doctor tells you to. If your doctor asks you to apply a dressing, use a fresh dressing daily. Don’t apply Efudix immediately before bed to prevent wiping off onto pillowcases and sheets.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.