Compare Efudex vs. Solaraze
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Fluorouracil (Efudex) and diclofenac (Solaraze) are both topical medications used to treat actinic keratosis, but they have some key differences. Fluorouracil is an antimetabolite that works by interfering with the DNA of abnormal skin cells, preventing them from growing. It is available in 2% and 5% strengths and can also treat basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, with the 5% formulation. Diclofenac, on the other hand, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that blocks proteins involved in cell and blood vessel formation, specifically targeting actinic keratosis. While fluorouracil can cause significant skin reactions like burning and crusting, diclofenac tends to have fewer side effects but may take longer to show results. Additionally, diclofenac can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburns. Both medications require a prescription and should be used with caution, especially in pregnant women.
- Fluorouracil (Efudex) topicalDiclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel
- Fluorouracil (Efudex) topicalDiclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel
Summary of Efudex vs. Solaraze
Summary for AntimetabolitePrescription onlyFluorouracil (Efudex) topical is an antimetabolite. It's available as 5% topical cream and solution, and as 2% solution. Both strengths can treat actinic keratosis, a precancerous skin condition caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light over time. But only fluorouracil 5% is approved to treat basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical is applied directly on the affected area(s) twice daily for 2 to 6 weeks, depending on what condition you're being treated for. Side effects of this medication can include skin burning, crusting, and irritation.
Summary for NSAIDPrescription onlyDiclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It's prescribed for adults to treat actinic keratosis, a skin condition caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet light. Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is applied directly to the affected area twice daily. Treatment usually takes about 2 to 3 months. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include itching, rash, and dry skin at the application site. Brand name Solaraze has been discontinued; diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is only available as a generic medication.
Indications of Efudex vs. Solaraze
Indications for•Actinic (or solar) keratosis (scaly pre-cancerous spot or growth on the skin) in adults•Basal cell carcinoma (certain type of skin cancer) in adultsIndications for•Actinic keratoses (AK) in adultsPros and Cons of Efudex vs. Solaraze
Pros and Const for AntimetabolitePros•Preferred treatment option for actinic keratoses•Up to a 90% cure rate for people with basal cell carcinoma•Treatment might last as short as 2-3 weeks, depending on your conditionCons•Can cause uncomfortable skin reactions•Need to use twice daily•Hasn't been studied in children•Not safe to use during pregnancyPros and Const for NSAIDPros•Milder side effects compared to some other AK medications•Skin might continue to improve even after you stop this medication•Don't need to be refrigerated; store at room temperatureCons•Applied twice daily•Can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and put you at higher risk for sunburns•Not recommended for use if you have stomach bleeds or ulcers, or severe kidney or liver damageCommon Side Effects of Efudex vs. Solaraze
Common Side Effects for•Crusting of the skin•Stinging or burning feeling of the skin•Itchiness•Soreness on the skin•ScarringCommon Side Effects for•Itchy skin (up to 52%)•Rash (up to 46%)•Redness, rash, itchiness of the skin (contact dermatitis, up to 33%)•Pain at application site (up to 26%)•Dry skin (up to 27%)•Peeling skin (up to 24%)•Burning or prickly sensation (up to 20%)Warnings of Efudex vs. Solaraze
Common Side Effects for•Avoid sensitive skin areas•Don't cover skin areas after application•Sunburn•Harm to unborn baby•Rare toxicity reactionCommon Side Effects for•Heart attack and stroke•Heart failure and swelling of your arms and legs•Severe asthma attack•Severe allergic or skin reaction•Harm to unborn babiesPrices with our coupons for Efudex vs. Solaraze
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