What is the most important information I should know about fluorouracil?
Fluorouracil should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare
provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Serious side effects have been reported with the use of fluorouracil including: allergic
reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding;
black, bloody or tarry stools; fever or chills; or signs of infection); sores in the mouth or throat;
severe vomiting or diarrhea; and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from
treatment with fluorouracil.
What is fluorouracil?
Fluorouracil is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. Fluorouracil interferes with the growth
of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.
Fluorouracil is used in the treatment of colon, rectum, breast, stomach, and pancreas cancer.
Fluorouracil may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking fluorouracil?
Do not use fluorouracil without first talking to your doctor if you have
The use of fluorouracil may be dangerous if you have any of the
conditions listed above.
Fluorouracil is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be
harmful to an unborn baby.
Do not use fluorouracil without first talking to your
doctor if you are
pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Discuss with your doctor the
appropriate use of
birth control during treatment with fluorouracil.
It is not known whether fluorouracil passes into breast milk.
Do not
take fluorouracil without first talking to your doctor if you are
breast feeding a baby.
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