Carac, Efudex, Fluorouracil (generic): Frequently Asked Questions
Who should NOT use EFUDEX?
You should not use EFUDEX if you are pregnant or may become pregnant during treatment because it can cause birth defects. Tell your doctor if you are nursing, as it is not yet known whether EFUDEX is absorbed into breast milk. You should also avoid EFUDEX if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
How many people have used EFUDEX®?
Over 14 million prescriptions have been written for EFUDEX® over the last 30 years.5
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
Over 14 million prescriptions have been written for EFUDEX ® over the last 30 years. 5
Source: www.efudex.com
How much EFUDEX® should I apply?
Every case of AK and sBCC is unique, so your doctor will give you specific instructions for using EFUDEX®. Generally, though, apply enough EFUDEX® to completely cover the lesions.
Source: www.efudex.com
Are there people who should not use EFUDEX®?
EFUDEX® should not be used in women who are or may become pregnant during therapy because it may cause harm to the fetus. If you are nursing, be sure to let your doctor know because it is not known whether EFUDEX® is excreted in human milk. Also, EFUDEX® should not be used by people who are known to be allergic to any of its components.
Source: www.efudex.com
When is the best time of day to apply EFUDEX®?
Morning and evening, as part of your normaly daily routine, or as instructed by your physician. Patients being treated for AKs typically use EFUDEX® twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks. For sBCC, patients would use EFUDEX® twice a day for at least 3-6 weeks, and up to 10-12 weeks.
Source: www.efudex.com
Is EFUDEX® only for older people?
EFUDEX® is for any adult. However, it is not approved for use in children. Younger people are being diagnosed with sBCC resulting from sun exposure and are being treated with EFUDEX®.9
Source: www.efudex.com
Does EFUDEX® cause any side effects?
The most frequent side effects of EFUDEX® Topical Solutions and Cream occur locally and may include itching, burning, soreness, tenderness, rash, scaling, scarring, photosensitivity, and swelling. If any of these occur, contact your doctor; he or she may have ideas for how to minimize these effects.
Source: www.efudex.com
Where can I find EFUDEX®?
EFUDEX® is available in most retail pharmacies. Simply take your prescription to the pharmacy you normally use.
Source: www.efudex.com
Why has my doctor prescribed EFUDEX®?
Because it's the leading topical treatment for treating precancerous actinic keratoses (AKs) and superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC), a common form of skin cancer. 1 These lesions are caused by sun exposures.
Source: www.efudex.com
Your doctor has prescribed EFUDEX (fluorouracil) Cream because you have a condition called actinic keratoses (ak-‘tinnik ker-e-‘to-ses), or AKs. It is caused by years of unprotected exposure to the sun. AKs first appear as small tan, brown, or reddish-brown patches, which may multiply over time. AKs are common, and there are several treatment options, such as EFUDEX. However, left untreated, AKs can develop into skin cancer. That’s why it’s so important that you follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. ...
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
How do I use EFUDEX®?
EFUDEX® Cream: Apply it to the affected areas twice a day - once in the morning and once in the evening. Use enough cream to cover the lesions, and be careful when applying near the eyes, nose, and mouth. You may apply EFUDEX® Cream with a nonmetal applicator, a suitable glove, or your fingertips. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after each application. EFUDEX® Solution: Hold the container, which has a built in applicator, against the affected areas and squeeze until a small amount reaches the skin. ...
Source: www.efudex.com
What should I do if I forget to use EFUDEX?
If you forget to use EFUDEX one day, do not increase or double your dose. Simply keep using it as your doctor has instructed, and you will complete your treatment successfully.
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
What should I avoid while using EFUDEX?
It is important to avoid the sun and any other source of UV light (eg, tanning booths) during and right after your treatment because it can make the redness and swelling worse. Always wear protective clothing. After you finish your EFUDEX treatment, it’s important to wear sunscreen of at least SPF 15 every day to prevent more AKs from developing. You should avoid makeup and other skin products (creams, lotions, etc) while using EFUDEX unless you get your doctor’s approval first. ...
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
How successful is EFUDEX® in treating precancerous actinic keratoses (AKs)?
In medical studies, up to 86% of visible lesions treated with EFUDEX® were completely eliminated.1
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
In medical studies, up to 86% of visible lesions treated with EFUDEX ® were completely eliminated. 1
Source: www.efudex.com
What will happen to my skin when I use EFUDEX®?
You will see the effect of EFUDEX® on your skin in 4 phases:
Early inflammatory phase: During the first week of application, mild inflammation occurs
Inflammatory phase: During following weeks, redness, and swelling occur with some crusting and burning
Tumor disintegration phase: Lesions resolve as the skin exfoliates
Healing phase: Over 1 to 2 weeks, new skin grows into the treatment area
Source: www.efudex.com
What should I do if I forget an application of EFUDEX®?
Simply resume using it as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or double your dose.
Source: www.efudex.com
Can I use EFUDEX® anywhere on my body?
EFUDEX® is the only topical treatment approved by the FDA to be used almost anywhere on the skin, including the face, scalp, hands, arms, shoulders, and trunk. However, application of EFUDEX® to mucous membranes should be avoided.1 In addition, EFUDEX® should not be applied in the eyes.
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
EFUDEX ® is the only topical treatment approved by the FDA to be used almost anywhere on the skin, including the face, scalp, hands, arms, shoulders, and trunk. However, application of EFUDEX ® to mucous membranes should be avoided. 1 In addition, EFUDEX ® should not be applied in the eyes.
Source: www.efudex.com
Can I use EFUDEX in other places besides my face?
Only your doctor can decide where you should use EFUDEX. Always remember that it’s important to use EFUDEX only as directed. If you notice spots that look like AKs on other parts of your body, show them to your doctor and discuss your concerns.
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
How will I know if I’m having an allergic reaction to EFUDEX?
The best thing to do is talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. He or she can offer reassurance, answer your questions, and see if your skin is reacting normally to treatment.
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
Can I use EFUDEX® on hairy areas of my body?
When AKs or sBCC occur in your hair, your doctor may recommend EFUDEX® Solution, which can easily penetrate through hairy areas. Simply hold the container, which has a built-in applicator, against the affect areas and squeeze until a small amount reaches the skin.
Source: www.efudex.com
How can I tell the difference between a normal reaction to EFUDEX® and an allergic reaction?
Itching, burning, soreness, tenderness, scaling, and swelling are common reactions to EFUDEX® therapy. An allergic reaction should be suspected when a patient complains of marked itching and discomfort. If you are concerned about the side effects you're experiencing, talk to your doctor. He or she can best assess the situation and more fully answer your questions.
Source: www.efudex.com
Will EFUDEX® cause scarring to my skin?
Unlike other treatment options, EFUDEX® is not likely to leave scars or make patches of skin permanently discolored. In fact, many patients have reported that, after treatment, their skin was smoother, with a more even tone.
Source: www.efudex.com
Is there anything else I need to know about EFUDEX® therapy?
Do not cover the treated areas with bandages or gauze unless your doctor advises you to do so. Do not share this medication with others, even if they appear to have the same condition as you. The most frequent side effects of EFUDEX® Solutions and Cream occur locally and may include itching, burning, soreness, tenderness, scaling, and swelling. If any of these side effects are severe, contact your doctor. ...
Source: www.efudex.com
Should I avoid the sun while using EFUDEX®?
During EFUDEX® treatment, you should do everything possible to stay out of the sun. However, with an active lifestyle, this isn't always possible. So be sure you take every precaution to protect your skin. Wear long sleeves and a hat when you go outside, and ask your doctors about the use of sunscreen on areas that aren't covered by clothing.
Source: www.efudex.com
What should I do with any unused EFUDEX after I complete my treatment?
Throw away any leftover EFUDEX after you have completed your treatment. Never give away or share EFUDEX with anyone else, even if they seem to have AKs or a similar skin condition.
Source: www.valeantcanada.com
Can I use cosmetics or other skin products while using EFUDEX®?
Patients are advised not to use cosmetics or any other skin products, including creams, lotions, and medications, while on EFUDEX® therapy unless instructed by their doctor.
Source: www.efudex.com
I noticed some spots on my legs that I forgot to show my doctor. Can I use EFUDEX® there, too?
Only your doctor can determine if the "spots" you have are AKs or sBCCs and can be treated with EFUDEX®. This is why it is so important to use EFUDEX® only as directed and discuss any questions you may have with your doctor.
Source: www.efudex.com
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