Common Skin Conditions
Paediatric Conditions
Skin Cancer
Infectious Skin Conditions
Other Skin Conditions
Treatment & Management
Prevention & Skincare
What is 5-fluorouracil (Efudix)?
Efudix cream is a prescribed cream that contains 5-fluorouracil as the active ingredient. It is used to treat precancerous skin lesions such as sun spots (actinic keratosis) and Bowen’s disease (squamous cell carcinoma-in-situ). Efudix belongs to a group of anti-cancer medications.
Efudix preferentially targets precancerous skin cells that multiply more quickly compared to normal skin cells. It is effective in detecting and treating precancerous changes on the skin that may not even be noticeable by the naked eye.
When Efudix is applied, it is expected that the areas with the precancerous cells will “light up” while the normal skin will not. During treatment, the skin will start to become red, inflamed, weepy, swollen and crusted. This is considered a normal response as it indicates the Efudix is working to eliminate the precancerous cells. Within 7 days of treatment, redness of the treated area is to be expected. By day 14, the response will likely be at its peak and can resemble a bad sunburn . Eventually, the skin heals, leaving some residual redness that improves over the next few months after treatment has finished.
Instructions
- In the morning and evening, use a soap free wash to cleanse the skin.
- Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area. Please take special care when applying around the eyelids, nose or lips. Avoid contact with the eyes and mouth.
- Ensure to wash yours hands with soap and water after use.
- During the treatment course, minimize exposure to sunlight when using Efudix.
- Efudix is usually applied twice daily to the affected area (morning and evening). If you miss an application, do not apply more at the next application.
- Please refer to the information leaflet about Efudix for more details about potential side effects.
- If the reaction is marked or severe, please contact your healthcare professional for further management. In the meantime, please stop the treatment until further notice.
EXTENDED READ
PRECAUTIONS
- Do not use if allergic to fluorouracil or any other ingredients in the cream
- Do not use if planning pregnancy (applies to both males and females), if pregnant or breastfeeding
- Do not use if on antiviral treatment for chickenpox or shingles
- Do not use if you have a known deficiency of enzyme dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase as you may develop a severe skin reaction
- Do not use if you have an open cut, ulcerated or inflamed skin as excessive absorption can cause side effects
- Do not use if under the age of 18
SCAN QR CODE TO SHARE THIS ARTICLE
YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN....
Lice & Nits No More: Your Ultimate Guide to Beating Head Lice
Head lice are small insects that feed on the blood and live on the human scalp. It is highly contagious and can be spread through physical contact or by sharing personal items such as hats, combs and hair accessories. It is very common amongst school-age children. Head lice are usually found on the scalp and […]
Spot It, Stop It: How to Recognize and Treat Impetigo Effectively
What is Impetigo? Impetigo (aka school sores) is an extremely common and highly contagious infectious skin condition that causes honey-crusted and red sores on the body. It is very common amongst children but can also affect individuals of all age groups. The 2 most common organisms causing impetigo are Staphylococcus aureus (golden staph) and Streptococcus […]
What is Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris, also known as “chicken skin” is a common inherited condition where there are small red and scaly bumps on the outer arms and thighs.
Staphylococcus Decolonisation
Staphylococcus decolonisation is a treatment that is used to reduce the number of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on the skin and/or nose of carriers. This is confirmed by a bacterial swab performed by your healthcare provider.
Scar Management – Wound Care After Suture Removal
After your surgical procedure, your wound may still be red, feels hard, tight or raised after the removal of stitches (sutures). The scar will continue to heal for 12 to 18 months. Over time, the scar will become softer, smoother and less red.
Can You Scratch Off Melanoma?
Can you scratch off melanoma? The short answer is a resounding NO! In fact, it is very dangerous and not advisable at all. Melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells, that cause melanomas are located at the dermoepidermal junction.
Illuminating your path to skin health. Guided by a passionate dermatologist committed to breaking down barriers and making skin knowledge accessible to all.
Disclaimer: Dr Glo does not offer online medical consultations. For individualized medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Popular Articles