Fluorouracil (Fig. 1.7) is sold
under different trade names such as Adrucil and Efudex. It is classified as an antimetabolite and has
been used for treating cancer for many years. Due to its similarity to thymine,
5-FU interrupts the synthesis of thymidine, one of the building blocks of DNA.
As a result, DNA replication is interrupted and the growth of cancer cells is
hampered.
Fig.
1.7
5-FU (left), thymine, and thymidine
(right)
Fluorouracil has been used mainly in
treating colon cancer and has been used in combination with other drugs,
including leucovorin, carboplatin, and paclitaxel. It has also been used in other solid tumors
including pancreatic cancer and breast cancer. Side effects of fluorouracil
include myelosuppression, dermatitis, and mucositis.
© Jiajiu Shaw, 2018Disclaimer: This blog is written solely for informational purposes. It does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other medical professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All contents posted are extracted from the book, "SIDE EFFECTS OF CHEMOTHERAPY AND RADIOTHERAPY", prepared by Dr. Jiajiu Shaw, Dr. Frederick Valeriote, and Dr. Ben Chen.
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