5FU GLS 500mg Injection

About

Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a widely used antimetabolite chemotherapy agent effective against a broad range of solid tumors. As a pyrimidine analogue, its primary mechanism of action involves disrupting DNA and RNA synthesis, which are essential processes for cell growth and division. Intracellularly, 5-FU is converted into several active metabolites. One key metabolite, fluorodeoxyuridine monophosphate (FdUMP), potently inhibits thymidylate synthase, an enzyme critical for the synthesis of thymidine, a necessary component of DNA. Additionally, 5-FU metabolites can be incorporated into RNA and DNA, leading to the production of dysfunctional nucleic acids and ultimately inducing cell death. Administered intravenously, often as a continuous infusion, 5-FU's efficacy is dependent on its cellular uptake and subsequent metabolic activation. It serves as a cornerstone in combination regimens for various malignancies, including gastrointestinal, breast, and head and neck cancers. Careful monitoring for dose-limiting toxicities, such as myelosuppression and mucositis, is paramount during treatment to optimize patient safety and therapeutic outcomes.

Uses

• Colorectal cancer
• Breast cancer
• Gastric cancer
• Pancreatic cancer

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and infusion schedule are determined by the physician.

Benefits

• Broad-spectrum activity against various solid tumors.
• Effective in adjuvant and palliative settings.
• Often used in combination with other chemotherapies.
• Well-established efficacy in gastrointestinal cancers.
• Can improve survival rates in certain cancers.
• Versatile in different treatment protocols.

Side Effects

• Myelosuppression (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia)
• Mucositis (stomatitis, esophagitis)
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)
• Alopecia (mild)
• Dermatitis
• Fatigue
• Anorexia
• Ocular toxicity (conjunctivitis)
• Cardiotoxicity (angina, arrhythmias - rare)
• Neurotoxicity (ataxia, confusion - rare)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and liver toxicity.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to severe teratogenic potential. Use effective contraception.
• Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding as it may be excreted in breast milk and harm the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustments may be required.
• Lung - Rarely associated with interstitial lung disease; monitor for new respiratory symptoms.

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