fluorouracil (injection)

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Pronunciation: FLOOR oh URE a sil

Brand: Adrucil

What is the most important information I should know about fluorouracil?

You should not use this medicine if you have bone marrow depression, a serious infection, or if you are malnourished or are not receiving proper nutrition.

What is fluorouracil?




What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving fluorouracil?

You should not receive this medicine if you are allergic to fluorouracil, or if you have:

  • bone marrow depression;
  • a serious infection; or
  • if you are malnourished or are not receiving proper nutrition.

To make sure fluorouracil is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • cancer that has spread to your bone marrow;
  • liver disease;
  • kidney disease; or
  • if you have ever had radiation treatment of your pelvic area.

Tell your doctor about all other cancer medications you have received in the past, especially BiCNU, CeeNU, Cytoxan, DTIC-Dome, Gliadel, Leukeran, Myeleran, Neosar, Temodar, or Zanosar.

Do not use fluorouracil if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether fluorouracil passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

How is fluorouracil given?


Your first dose of fluorouracil will be given in a hospital setting where you can be closely watched in case the medication causes serious side effects.

Fluorouracil injections are usually given daily for 3 or 4 days in a row, and then every other day for another 3 or 4 days. This treatment cycle may be repeated once a month. You may also receive a weekly dose. Follow your doctor's instructions.

How often you need fluorouracil injections will depend on many factors, including side effects and how your body responds to the medication. Try not to miss any appointments for your fluorouracil injections.



What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss an appointment for your fluorouracil injection.

What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while receiving fluorouracil?




What are the possible side effects of fluorouracil?


Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • white patches or sores inside your mouth or throat, or on your lips;
  • pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or any bleeding that will not stop);
  • weakness or fainting;
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
  • watery diarrhea, ongoing or severe vomiting;
  • numbness or tingling anywhere in your body, loss of muscle control; or

Common side effects may include:

  • temporary hair loss;
  • mild to moderate nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite;
  • mild, itchy skin rash;
  • eye dryness, watering, or increased sensitivity to light; or
  • temporary loss of your fingernails or toenails.


What other drugs will affect fluorouracil?

Tell your doctor about all other cancer medications you are receiving, especially leucovorin.


Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about fluorouracil.



Copyright 1996-2015 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 4.05. Revision date: 10/6/2015.
