Cancer medicines
Fluorouracil (5-FU)
Fluorouracil (5-FU)
An antimetabolite used in gastrointestinal and other cancers.
Sources checked · Introductory guide
On this page
How it works
Disrupts DNA/RNA production and function. This entry covers injectable treatment.[1]
Where it is used
Used for colorectal, stomach, pancreatic and breast cancers.[1]
Key safety points
Report severe mouth sores, diarrhea, fever or chest pain immediately. Contact your team about infusion-pump problems.[2]
DPD before treatment
DPD deficiency increases severe toxicity risk. Discuss testing and risk before treatment.[3]
Questions for your care team
- How should I manage the infusion pump and get help at night?
Sources and scope
Source documents are in English.
- NCI · Fluorouracil (5-FU) (opens in a new tab)
- MedlinePlus · Fluorouracil (5-FU) (opens in a new tab)
- FDA · DPD deficiency and capecitabine/5-FU safety (opens in a new tab)
General information based on official public sources. This is not a complete list of uses or side effects. Individual treatment decisions require your care team and current source documents. US-source uses do not establish local approval or reimbursement.