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Fluorouracil Coupon - Fluorouracil 40g of 5% tube of cream

fluorouracil

Generic Efudex
Used for Skin Cancer, Actinic Keratosis
Used for Skin Cancer, Actinic Keratosis

Fluorouracil (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.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Connie Zheng, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 13, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical?

What is Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical used for?

How Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical works

Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical is an antimetabolite. It works by getting in the way of cells making copies of their genetic material. When applied on pre-cancerous or cancerous skin cells, fluorouracil (Efudex) topical prevents them from being able to grow.

Are you looking for information on fluorouracil 0.5% (Carac) cream or fluorouracil 4% (Tolak) cream instead?
When does Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsEfudex
Drug ClassAntimetabolite
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$188.24(save 64.65%)
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$66.54
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What are the side effects of Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Crusting of the skin
  • Stinging or burning feeling of the skin
  • Itchiness
  • Soreness on the skin
  • Scarring

Other Side Effects

  • Darkening of skin color
  • Skin tenderness
  • Open sores on skin
  • Rash
  • Swelling on the skin
  • Blistering

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Rare toxicity reaction: Stomach pains, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever, chills, skin rash, painful sores in the mouth.
When do Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Skin redness
Crusting of the skin
Stinging or burning
Itching

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Redness and swelling of normal skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Burning feeling where medicine is applied

increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight

itching

oozing

skin rash

soreness or tenderness of skin

Less common or rare

Darkening of skin

scaling

watery eyes

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical

thumbs-up

Pros

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 condition

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause uncomfortable skin reactions

Need to use twice daily

Hasn't been studied in children

Not safe to use during pregnancy

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical

pharmacist

  • Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical should be applied on your skin. But try your best to avoid putting medication near sensitive areas, such as your eyes or mouth, and on damaged skin because doing so can cause skin irritation.

    • Gently massage fluorouracil (Efudex) topical into your skin. It's best to apply the medication with a nonmetal applicator or surgical gloves. But if you use your fingers to apply fluorouracil (Efudex) topical, wash your hands immediately after so that you don't accidentally get this medication on other skin areas.

      • If you use gloves or other tools to apply fluorouracil (Efudex) topical, make sure to either wash them thoroughly or throw them away in a place that's out of reach of children or pets. If this medication is accidentally eaten by children or pets, it can cause serious harm.

        • Don't cover the area with a dressing or bandages, unless your provider has instructed you to do so. This can raise your risk of skin reactions on normal skin that's near your skin spot or growth.

          • Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical shouldn't be used in pregnant females. Make sure to let your dermatologist know if you're pregnant before starting fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. They'll likely consider a different medication for you.

            • It's not known if fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can get into breastmilk. Talk to your dermatologist about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding while using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. They might recommend you use formula at least until you finish your treatment.

              • Store fluorouracil (Efudex) topical at room temperature in a dry place. Don't freeze it, since this can damage the medication.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical

                How long dose it take for fluorouracil (Efudex) topical to work?
                How long it takes for fluorouracil (Efudex) topical to work can differ from person to person, depending on your condition. In general, this medication should start to work within 2 to 4 weeks for actinic keratosis. But you might not see complete healing until 1 to 2 months after your treatment ended. Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can start to work within 3 to 6 weeks for basal cell carcinoma. But take up to 3 months before the sores on the skin are healed. Talk to your dermatologist if you're concerned with how well fluorouracil (Efudex) topical is working for you.
                When to stop using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical?
                Your dermatologist will let you know when to stop using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. If you're using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical for actinic keratosis, your dermatologist will ask you to continue treatment until the skin spots or growths reach the "erosion" stage, which is when the skin becomes painful and inflamed. It might take 2 to 4 weeks before you reach this stage. If you're prescribed fluorouracil (Efudex) topical for basal cell carcinoma, your dermatologist will ask you to use this medication until the spots on the skin are gone, which might take up to 3 months. Ask your dermatologist if you're not sure when you should stop using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical.
                Can fluorouracil (Efudex) topical make you tired?
                In clinical trials, people using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical didn't report tiredness as a side effect. Tiredness might be a side effect that's linked more to fluorouracil injection, instead of topical fluorouracil. If you're noticing fatigue or tiredness after starting fluorouracil (Efudex) topical and it's getting in the way of your daily activities, talk to your dermatologist or primary care provider so they can help you figure out what might be causing it.
                Does fluorouracil (Efudex) topical affect healthy skin?
                Yes, fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can affect healthy skin. It's best to use a non-metal applicator or glove when applying fluorouracil (Efudex) topical only on the affected area(s), being careful to not touch the surrounding healthy skin. But if you need to use your fingers, make sure to wash your hands right away very well with soap and water after applying the cream.
                Can you put bandages on skin after fluorouracil (Efudex) topical treatment?
                Ask your dermatologist if you should apply bandages after fluorouracil (Efudex) topical treatment. In general, you should avoid putting bandages on areas where you've applied this medication. Doing so can cause your skin to absorb more fluorouracil, which can lead to more side effects, such as burning or rash. But if needed, your dermatologist might instruct you to cover the affected area with a porous and breathable gauze. Only use bandages made of materials approved by your dermatologist to prevent serious side effects.
                Does fluorouracil (Efudex) topical expire?
                Yes, fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can expire. There should be an expiration date that's written on the medication box or bottle. Don't use fluorouracil (Efudex) topical past the written expiration date because it might not work well to treat your skin problem.
                Is fluorouracil (Efudex) topical chemotherapy?
                Yes, fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can be considered a chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that kills all fast-growing cells and is typically used to treat cancer. Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can be used to treat basal cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer.
                Is fluorouracil (Efudex) topical used for wrinkles?
                Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical isn't FDA-approved for wrinkles. A small study suggests that this medication might help with wrinkles caused by sun damage, whereas other another study concludes that this medication doesn't improve the look of wrinkles. More research is needed to help us understand how fluorouracil (Efudex) topical might affect wrinkles.
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                warings-icon

                What are the risks and warnings for Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical?

                Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Avoid sensitive skin areas

                Don't apply fluorouracil (Efudex) topical to sensitive skin areas or near mucous membranes, such as near the eyes, mouth, or nose. Doing so raises the risk of skin damage in those areas.

                risk-warning

                Don't cover skin areas after application

                Don't put bandages or dressing over areas where you just applied fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. Doing so will cause your skin to absorb more medication, which can lead to more skin-related side effects.

                If needed, your skin care specialist might ask you to put a breathable, gauze dressing over it to protect the skin. But only do this if they told you it's safe to do so.

                risk-warning

                Sunburn

                You can experience more serious skin reactions, such as painful peeling or blistering, if you're exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light while using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. Avoid sun lamps and tanning beds during and immediately following treatment with fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. Also, try your best to stay out of the sun. If you need to be outside, ask your dermatologist about using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing (e.g., hats, long-sleeved shirts).

                risk-warning

                Harm to unborn baby

                • Risk factors: Females of childbearing age

                  Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical can cause harm to an unborn baby, such as birth defects and miscarriage, if it's used during pregnancy. Let your dermatologist know if you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using fluorouracil (Efudex) topical.

                  risk-warning

                  Rare toxicity reaction

                  • Risk factors: Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency

                    There has been one reported case of toxicity experienced by a person who used fluorouracil 5% topical cream. Symptoms included stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. This person was found to have inflammation and sores in their month, stomach, and bowels.

                    This toxicity reaction is more common in people who don't have a enzyme called dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) in the body. Usualy, the DPD enzyme helps break down fluorouracil (Efudex) topical in your body. Without the enzyme, the medication can build up in your body, which can raise your risk of these side effects. If you have DPD deficiency, you can't use fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. Talk to your dermatologist about alternative treatments.

                    dosage

                    Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical dosage forms

                    The average cost for 1 tube of 40g of 5% of Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical is $66.54 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 64.65% off the average retail price of $188.24.
                    tube of cream
                    Tube of cream
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    40g of 5%1 tube$66.54$66.54

                    Typical dosing for Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical

                    Actinic keratoses

                    • Fluorouracil 2% and 5%: Apply a thin layer to cover the skin spots or growths on the affected area(s) twice daily. The typical length of treatment is 2 to 4 weeks. But it can take 1 to 2 months after the end of treatment to notice complete healing of the skin.

                    Basal cell carcinoma

                    • Fluorouracil 5% only: Apply a thin layer to cover the skin spots or growths on the affected area(s) twice daily. The typical length of treatment is 3 to 6 weeks, but can be extended to up to 3 months, if needed.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical and other drugs

                    Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                    • Brivudine
                    • Measles Virus Vaccine, Live
                    • Mumps Virus Vaccine, Live
                    • Rotavirus Vaccine, Live
                    • Rubella Virus Vaccine, Live
                    • Tegafur
                    • Varicella Virus Vaccine, Live
                    • Zoster Vaccine, Live

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    drug-cost

                    How much does Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical cost?

                    To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
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                    contraindications-icon

                    Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical will not be safe for you to take.

                    • Currently pregnant

                    • Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency

                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical
                    Used for:
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                    Imiquimod
                    Used for:

                    • Face or scalp actinic keratosis (scaly precancerous spot or growth on the skin) in adults - all brands and strengths

                    • Genital and anal warts in adults and children 12 years and older - Zyclara 3.75% and Aldara 5% only

                    • Superficial basal cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer) in adults - Aldara 5% only

                    $29.86 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel
                    Used for:
                    $40.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    latest news

                    What is the latest news about Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical?

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                    What to Know About Efudex for Basal Cell Carcinoma

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                    Folinic acid, fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin are commonly combined to treat colorectal cancer. When taken together, these three medications may be referred to as FOLFOX. Learn more on how FOLFOX is used, its side effects, and how effective it is for treating colorectal cancer.

                    What Is FOLFOX Chemotherapy?

                    Folinic acid, fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin are commonly combined to treat colorectal cancer. When taken together, these three medications may be referred to as FOLFOX. Learn more on how FOLFOX is used, its side effects, and how effective it is for treating colorectal cancer.
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                    Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical images

                    white - Fluorouracil 5% Topical Cream
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                    white - Fluorouracil 5% Topical Cream
                    This medicine is White Tube Of Cream.white - Fluorouracil 5% Topical Cream
                    This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Cream.
                    white - Fluorouracil 5% Topical Cream
                    This medicine is White Tube Of Cream.white - Fluorouracil 5% Topical Cream
                    white - Fluorouracil 5% Topical Cream
                    This medicine is White Tube Of Cream.white - Fluorouracil 5% Topical Cream

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    Accord Healthcare Inc. (2022). Fluorouracil- fluorouracil cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    American Family Physician. (2019). 5% fluorouracil is the preferred treatment for actinic keratoses.

                    Bausch Health US, LLC. (2024). Efudex- fluorouracil solution; Efudex- fluorouracil cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    View All References (7)

                    BluePoint Laboratories. (2024). Fluorouracil injection, solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Casale, J., et al. (2024). Fluorouracil. StatPearls.

                    Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. (2024). Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency.

                    Gross, K., et al. (2007). 5% 5-fluorouracil cream for the treatment of small superficial basal cell carcinoma: Efficacy, tolerability, cosmetic outcome, and patient satisfaction. Dermatologic Surgery.

                    Sachs, D. L., et al. (2009). Topical fluorouracil for actinic keratoses and photoaging. Archives of Dermatology.

                    Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. (2022). Fluorouracil solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    West, D. A., et al. (2010). Treatment of actinic keratoses with topical fluorouracil. American Family Physician.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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