Efudex

Efudex® is prescribed for the treatment of actinic keratoses (AKs).  AKs first appear as small tan, brown, or reddish-brown patches. They can be as small as a few millimeters, be flat or raised, and have a white scaly top that's rough to the touch. People can have 3 to 10 times as many non-visible lesions (AKs that are under the skin's surface and are not yet visible) as they do visible ones. 

Over time, AKs multiply and form larger patches on parts of the skin that are exposed to the sun (eg, face, ears, bald scalp, hands, arms, and legs). Left untreated, these lesions can develop into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a dangerous form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of your body. 


How does it work?

It is believed that the active ingredient, fluorouracil, in Efudex®, interferes with a cell's ability to reproduce. AK cells multiply at a faster rate than normal cells. As a result, they absorb the medicine (Efudex Cream) faster than the surrounding healthy cells. This is how Efudex can destroy the AK cells without harming the healthy, normal ones.


Who should not take Efudex?

Do not use if you are or may become pregnant during therapy because of potential hazard to the fetus. Cases of miscarriage and birth defects have been reported in women who are pregnant. 

Side effects of Efudex Topical Cream occur locally and may include itching, burning, soreness, tenderness, scaling, and swelling.


The information contained above is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with your physician.

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