Applying Efudex

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION : 

When Efudex is applied to a lesion, a response occurs with the following sequence: erythema, usually followed by vesiculation, desquamation, erosion and reepithelialization. Efudex should be applied preferably with a nonmetal applicator or suitable glove. If Efudex is applied with the fingers, the hands should be washed immediately afterward. The dosage for Efudex prescribed to each patient will vary, depending on various factors determined by your physician.

Always follow your physician3?s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.

The following dosage information includes some common doses for Efudex. If your dose of efudex is different, do not follow any of the dosages described below unless your doctor has approved. To get the full benefits of the prescription, you need to stick to the diet and exercise program prescribed by your medical doctor.

Actinic or Solar Keratosis: Apply cream or solution twice daily in an amount sufficient to cover the lesions. Medication should be continued until the inflammatory response reaches the erosion stage, at which time use of the drug should be terminated. The usual duration of therapy is from  2 to 4 weeks. Complete healing of the lesions may not be evident for 1 to 2 months following cessation of Efudex therapy.

Superficial Basal Cell Carcinomas: Only the 5% strength is recommended. Apply cream or solution twice daily in an amount sufficient to cover the lesions. Treatment should be continued for at least 3 to 6 weeks. Therapy may be required for as long as 10 to 12 weeks before the lesions are obliterated. As in any neoplastic condition, the patient should be followed for a reasonable period of time to determine if a cure has been obtained.

If your medical doctor has instructed you to take Efudex medication on a regular schedule and you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, instead skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed by your medical doctor!

Efudex Cream is available in 25-gm tubes containing 5% fluorouracil (NDC 0187-3204-26) in a vanishing cream base consisting of white petrolatum, stearyl alcohol, propylene glycol, polysorbate 60 and parabens (methyl and propyl).

Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C D? 30°C (59°F D? 86°F)

WARNINGS: Application to mucous membranes should be avoided due to the possibility of local inflammation and ulceration. Additionally, cases of miscarriage and a birth defect (ventricular septal defect) have been reported when Efudex was applied to mucous membrane areas during pregnancy.