What it means
An antimetabolite antineoplastican-tee-nee-oh-PLAS-tikA drug used to treat cancer by killing cancer cells or stopping them from growing and dividing.anti- againstneo- newplas growth, formation-tic relating toFull entry , often called 5-FU. By IV it treats colon, rectal, breast, stomach, pancreatic and head and neck cancers; its effects include mouth sores, diarrhea, low blood counts and hand-foot syndrome (red, painful palms and soles). As a cream it treats precancerous skin spots and some skin cancers, causing redness and crusting.
For the nurse
For IV use, handle it as a hazardous drug, check blood counts, and teach mouth care and to report severe diarrhea or mouth sores. Ice chips during a quick IV dose may lessen mouth sores. For the cream, wash hands after applying and avoid the sun. ISMP lists IV and oral chemotherapy as high-alert (not the cream), and advises writing "fluorouracil" without the 5, since the number has been mistaken for a dose.
At a glance
| Drug class | antineoplastic (antimetabolite) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Efudex, Carac, Tolak (topical) |
| Also written | 5-FU, 5-fluorouracil, Efudex, Carac |
Related terms
antineoplastic
A drug used to treat cancer by killing cancer cells or stopping them from growing and dividing.
diarrhea
Loose or watery stools, usually three or more times a day or more often than normal for the person.
head and neck cancer
Cancer that starts in the mouth, throat, voice box, nose, sinuses or salivary glands.