Fluorouracil Cream for Actinic Keratoses

Fluorouracil cream is a topical medication commonly used in dermatology to treat specific skin conditions that are associated with cancer. This cream is an FDA-approved treatment primarily used for addressing superficial basal cell carcinoma (SBCC) and actinic keratoses.

• Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (SBCC):
  SBCC is a common type of skin cancer usually caused by sun damage. It grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. The main concern with SBCC is its appearance, typically presenting as pink, scaly patches on the skin. Fluorouracil cream is used for treating SBCC when other more conventional treatments are impractical or have been tried without success.
• Actinic Keratoses (Premalignant Keratosis):
  
  Actinic keratosis is a skin condition that also results from sun damage. It is considered "precancerous" because if left untreated, it has the potential to develop into cancer. This condition appears as rough, scaly bumps on the skin.

Fluorouracil cream is particularly beneficial for patients where traditional surgical interventions are either impractical or have previously failed. It offers a non-invasive treatment alternative, applied directly to the skin, focusing on areas damaged by excessive sun exposure which are at high risk of developing into skin cancer.

How Does Fluorouracil Cream Work?

Fluorouracil cream is a targeted topical treatment that is applied directly to affected areas of the skin. Typically, the cream is used once daily over a course of four weeks. It works by selectively destroying abnormal or "bad" skin cells that contribute to conditions like superficial basal cell carcinoma (SBCC) and actinic keratoses. By eliminating these cells, the cream prevents further growth and potential progression of these skin issues. The treatment is designed to manage and remove patches of SBCC or actinic keratosis before they can develop further or spread, providing a non-invasive approach to controlling precancerous and cancerous skin conditions.

Side Effects

Fluorouracil cream, while effective in treating certain skin conditions, can also cause a range of side effects due to its action on cellular growth. As the cream works to stop the proliferation of abnormal skin cells, it can also affect the surrounding healthy skin, leading to irritation and damage. Common side effects from regular application include:

• Redness
• Dryness
• Crusting
• Stinging
• Sores
• Burning

If any of these side effects become particularly troublesome or severe, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider for advice and potential adjustments to your treatment plan.

Who Should Not Use Fluorouracil Cream

Fluorouracil cream, while beneficial for treating certain skin conditions, is not suitable for everyone due to the potential risks and side effects it carries in specific populations. Individuals who should avoid using this cream include:

• People with DPD Deficiency: Individuals lacking dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), an enzyme, should avoid using fluorouracil cream. There have been instances of life-threatening toxicity in such individuals due to their body's inability to properly break down the medication. Symptoms of toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills. Immediate medical consultation is advised if these symptoms occur.
• Pregnant or Breastfeeding Individuals: The use of fluorouracil cream is not recommended for pregnant individuals due to its association with birth defects. The risks associated with its use during breastfeeding are not well documented but should be considered carefully against the potential benefits.

Additionally, it is crucial to limit sun exposure while using fluorouracil cream as it may increase skin sensitivity and damage. If you are unsure about the suitability of fluorouracil cream for your condition, consult your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your use.

The Cost of Fluorouracil Cream

The average retail price for a 40-gram tube of 5% fluorouracil cream varies significantly depending on the pharmacy and location. Generally, it ranges from about $90 to $294 without insurance. However, at Marley Drug you can get this same 40-gram tube of fluorouracil for only $54.

Our ability to offer this competitive price stems from bypassing insurance middlemen. Typically, insurance companies work with drug wholesalers to negotiate drug prices, which can often result in higher costs for consumers. By eliminating these intermediaries and sourcing directly from wholesalers, Marley Drug is able to offer prices that are competitive with those available through insurance.

To learn more about how you can get your fluorouracil cream prescription from Marley Drug, call us at 1-800-810-7790.