Efudex
Fluorouracil cream for actinic keratosis and some skin cancers. It destroys precancerous and cancerous cells by blocking their rapid division.
- Category
- Oncology Support
- Active ingredient
- Fluorouracil
- Route
- Cutaneous use
- Form
- Cream
- Strengths
- 5%
Efudex is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.
No prescription needed: we place your order for Efudex on your behalf.
- Conditions
- Actinic Keratosis · Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma
- Alternative names
- fluorouracil
- Therapeutic class
- Antineoplastic; Antimetabolite
- Pharmacological class
- Topical Fluorouracil
- Minor side effects
- skin erythema; burning sensation
- Moderate side effects
- scaling skin; swelling; hyperpigmentation
- Serious side effects
- severe skin ulceration, requires immediate medical attention
- Dosage forms
- Cream
- Administration route
- Cutaneous use
- Originator
- Valeant Pharmaceuticals
- Onset time
- 2–4 weeks
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store below 25°C.
- Age restrictions
- Approved for adults.
Contraindications
pregnancy; dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency; hypersensitivity to fluorouracil
Patient summary
Fluorouracil cream for actinic keratosis and some skin cancers. It destroys precancerous and cancerous cells by blocking their rapid division.
Mechanism of action
Acts as a pyrimidine antagonist, selectively blocking DNA and RNA synthesis within rapidly dividing abnormal skin cells.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Highly teratogenic. Do not use under any circumstances during pregnancy. Breastfeeding: Contraindicated.
FAQ
Will I receive the original Efudex?
No. Efudex is the original brand, made by Valeant Pharmaceuticals, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient (fluorouracil) at the same strength. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.
How much does Efudex cost in South Africa?
It depends on the pack size. Efudex comes in a 5% strength, in packs of 2 to 5 tubes, and the price of every option is shown above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted. Larger packs cost less per tube.
Payment and prices →What is Efudex used for?
Efudex contains fluorouracil, used for actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma.
How long does Efudex take to work?
Fluorouracil usually starts to work within 2 to 4 weeks. The exact timing differs between people.
Does Efudex have side effects?
Yes. The common side effects of fluorouracil are skin redness (erythema) and burning sensation. Less common ones include scaling skin, swelling and hyperpigmentation. Serious but less common side effects include severe skin ulceration, which needs urgent medical attention.
Can I buy Efudex over the counter in South Africa?
Online, yes: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Efudex. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver Efudex to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →What you will receive
Efudex names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.
- A generic containing Fluorouracil at the strength you pick.
- Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
- Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.