What is 5 florourasil?

  1. 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat many different types of cancer.
  2. It works by interfering with the growth and division of cancer cells, ultimately leading to their death.
  3. The drug is usually given as an injection or infusion through an IV to ensure it reaches the cancerous tissue directly.
  4. Common side effects of 5-FU include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, and mouth sores.
  5. Patients taking 5-FU may also experience more serious side effects like reduced white blood cell count, increased risk of infection or bleeding, and hand-foot syndrome, which causes redness, swelling, and pain in the hands and feet.