Fluorouracil Injection 500 Mg

Fluorouracil 500 mg Injection (also known as 5-FU) is a common antimetabolite chemotherapy medication used to treat several types of cancer by interfering with the DNA and RNA synthesis of rapidly dividing cells.

• Gastrointestinal Cancers: Adenocarcinoma of the colon, rectum, stomach, and pancreas.
• Breast Cancer: Often as a component of a multi-drug regimen after surgery.
• Other Cancers: Sometimes used for head and neck, esophageal, anal, bladder, and cervical cancers. 

• Setting: Must be administered in a hospital or specialized clinic under the supervision of an oncologist.
• Method: Delivered as an intravenous (IV) bolus (quick injection) or a continuous IV infusion (slow drip).
• Note on Leucovorin: It is often given alongside Leucovorin, which stabilizes the drug’s binding to its target and enhances its cancer-killing effect. 

• Blood Counts: Significant drops in white blood cells (neutropenia), which increases infection risk, and lower platelets, increasing bleeding risk.
• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and painful mouth sores (stomatitis).
• Hand-Foot Syndrome: Tingling, pain, redness, or peeling of the skin on the palms and soles.
• Skin & Hair: Increased sensitivity to sunlight, skin darkening, and temporary hair thinning or loss. 

• DPD Deficiency: Patients with a rare genetic deficiency of the DPD enzyme can experience life-threatening toxicity from this drug. Doctors may perform a genetic test before starting treatment.
• Heart Health: Can cause cardiotoxicity (chest pain or arrhythmias). Seek emergency care if you experience chest pain.
• Pregnancy: This drug is highly unsafe for a developing foetus. Both men and women should use effective contraception during and for at least 3 to 6 months after treatment