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Fluorouracil topical What kind of medication is this? It has been shown that FLUOROURACIL can inhibit the proliferation of skin cells. Fluorouracil is effective because it triggers the death of cells that are multiplying at the quickest rate, such as the aberrant skin cells. For the treatment of scaly skin overgrowths, a topical (for the skin) form of fluorouracil is employed (actinic or solar keratoses). The use of fluorouracil as a topical therapy is another option for treating superficial basal cell carcinoma. There are a variety of additional applications for fluorouracil topical that are not included in this drug reference. Before I start using this medication, what information is important for my physician to have? This medicine has the potential to cause birth abnormalities or damage to an unborn child. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should not take fluorouracil topical. If you have an allergy to fluorouracil, you should not use the topical form of the medication. Tell your doctor if you have a dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency so that they can determine whether or not fluorouracil topical is safe for you to use. This medicine has the potential to cause birth abnormalities or damage to an unborn child. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should not take fluorouracil topical. Throughout your treatment with fluorouracil topical, you should prevent becoming pregnant at all costs by using a reliable method of birth control. Listen to your healthcare provider's advice on how long you should wait before becoming pregnant again after your treatment has concluded. It is unknown whether fluorouracil topical goes into breast milk or whether it might cause damage to a baby who is being fed by their mother when she is breastfeeding. When you are taking this medication, you should not breastfeed your child. Without first consulting a physician, you should not administer this drug to anybody who is less than 18 years old. What is the correct way to take this medication? Always make sure to follow all of the instructions on the label of your medication. This drug should not be used in bigger or lesser dosages, nor should it be taken for a longer period of time than is indicated. You need to clean the region that will get the topical application of fluorouracil. Before administering the drug, thoroughly rinse the affected region, pat it dry with a towel, and then wait 10 minutes. If you are not using this medicine to treat a condition that affects your hands, you should wash your hands both before and shortly after administering this drug. Fluorouracil topical should be applied to the afflicted region using the fingertips or an applicator made out of a material other than metal. The medication should be applied in a gentle and even layer onto the skin. Apply a sufficient amount to create a thin coating that covers the whole area. Caregivers who administer this drug should use rubber gloves. Fluorouracil topical should not be used on skin that is inflamed, peeling, or diseased, as well as on open wounds. Wait until these problems have totally healed before taking fluorouracil topical. Do not cover the treated skin area unless your doctor directs you to. Two hours after the application of fluorouracil topical, a moisturizing lotion or sunblock can be used on the affected area. What other substances could react with this medication? Fluorouracil that is used topically is not expected to be affected by other medications, including those that are ingested orally or injected. Yet, many different medications might have an effect on one another. Inform each of your health care providers about any and all medications you use, whether they are prescribed to you or purchased over the counter, as well as any vitamins or herbal supplements you take. What side effects should I be on the lookout for while I'm taking this medication? It is imperative that you avoid getting this medication on your eyelashes, as well as in your eyes, nose, or mouth. While administering a topical fluorouracil treatment near these regions, exercise extreme care. If your doctor has not given you specific instructions to the contrary, you should refrain from applying any additional drugs to the region being treated with fluorouracil topical. Try to limit your time spent in the sun and indoor tanning booths. The topical form of fluorouracil might make you more susceptible to sunburn. Before you go outside, make sure to protect yourself by donning protective gear and using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This medication is capable of penetrating bodily fluids (urine, feces, vomit). While cleaning up a patient's bodily fluids, handling contaminated garbage or laundry, or changing a patient's diaper, caregivers should use rubber gloves to protect their hands. Cleanse hands before and after removing gloves. Separately launder dirty articles of clothes and linens from the rest of the laundry. What possible negative reactions may I have to this medication? You should seek immediate medical attention if you have the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or neck. Dryness, peeling, or flaking of the skin; a slight rash; or mild irritation at the site where the drug was given are some of the common adverse effects that may occur. Where exactly may I store my medication? Keep at room temperature and away from heat and moisture when storing.