Fluorouracil (5-FU) for Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
What To Think About
Applying 5-FU on skin almost always causes pain and a burning feeling. This may make it hard to tell if you are having an allergic reaction to the medicine or if the medicine is working as expected.
Your skin may be sensitive to sunlight during your treatment with 5-FU. So you will need to protect your skin from the sun.
People treated with 5-FU will need to have regular follow-up visits with their doctors to make sure the skin cancer is gone.
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.
There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Reference Taking Medicines as Prescribed.
Advice for women
Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant. If you need to use this medicine, talk to your doctor about how you can prevent pregnancy.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) 
(What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?) to help you understand this medication.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: October 2, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Amy McMichael, MD - Dermatology |
|
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
