About
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a potent antimetabolite chemotherapy agent widely used in the treatment of various solid tumors. As a pyrimidine analog, 5-FU exerts its cytotoxic effects by interfering with critical cellular processes, primarily DNA and RNA synthesis. Its active metabolites inhibit thymidylate synthase, an enzyme vital for DNA repair and replication, leading to DNA damage and cell cycle arrest. Additionally, 5-FU can be incorporated into RNA, disrupting its function and protein synthesis. This dual mechanism of action effectively targets rapidly dividing cancer cells, making it a cornerstone in many chemotherapy regimens. It is often administered intravenously, either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, to enhance its efficacy and broaden its spectrum of activity against malignant cells.
Uses
- Treatment of colorectal cancer.
- Treatment of breast cancer.
- Treatment of gastric cancer.
- Treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Directions For Use
Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and infusion rate are determined by the physician based on patient's condition.
Benefits
- Effective against a wide range of solid tumors.
- Can be used as a primary or adjuvant therapy.
- Improves survival rates in various cancers.
- Often combined with other drugs for synergistic effects.
- Available in different formulations for various applications.
- Well-established and widely used chemotherapy agent.
Side Effects
- Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomatitis/mucositis
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)
- Fatigue
- Anorexia
- Skin rash
- Photosensitivity
- Cardiotoxicity (rare)
- Neuropathy (rare)
Safety Measures
- Alcohol - Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may worsen gastrointestinal side effects and potentially increase liver toxicity.
- Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to significant risk of fetal harm and teratogenicity. Effective contraception is required during treatment.
- Breastfeeding - Contraindicated during breastfeeding due to potential for serious adverse effects in the infant.
- Liver - Use with extreme caution in patients with liver impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary. Monitor liver function closely.
- Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustments may be required. Monitor kidney function.
- Lung - Rare pulmonary toxicity can occur; monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms like cough or dyspnea.
Disclaimer
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Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.
Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.
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