WARNING

FUDR (Floxuridine) is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly gastrointestinal cancers like colorectal cancer. Like many chemotherapy drugs, FUDR comes with risks and potential side effects. Some of these risks include:

• Bone Marrow Suppression: FUDR can suppress bone marrow function, leading to decreased production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This can result in anemia, increased susceptibility to infections, and bleeding problems.
• Gastrointestinal Toxicity: FUDR can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth sores. These symptoms can be severe and may require supportive care or adjustments to the treatment regimen.
• Liver Toxicity: FUDR can cause liver toxicity, leading to elevated liver enzymes and potentially liver damage. Monitoring liver function is essential during treatment with FUDR.
• Skin Reactions: FUDR can cause skin reactions, including rash, redness, and sensitivity to sunlight. Patients may experience skin irritation or even severe skin damage if exposed to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light during treatment.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to FUDR, which can range from mild skin rashes to more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.
• Secondary Cancers: Long-term use of FUDR may increase the risk of developing secondary cancers, although this risk must be weighed against the potential benefits of treatment.
• Other Potential Side Effects: Other less common side effects of FUDR may include fatigue, fever, headache, dizziness, and changes in taste or appetite.

It’s essential for patients receiving FUDR to be closely monitored by their healthcare providers and to report any side effects promptly. Treatment may need to be adjusted or discontinued if side effects are severe or intolerable. Additionally, patients should discuss the risks and benefits of FUDR treatment with their healthcare team to make informed decisions about their care.

Why is this medication prescribed?

FUDR is prescribed primarily for the treatment of certain types of cancer, particularly gastrointestinal cancers like colorectal cancer. It is an antimetabolite chemotherapy medication that works by interfering with the DNA synthesis process in cancer cells, ultimately leading to cell death.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how FUDR is typically used:

• Administration: FUDR is usually administered intravenously (IV) in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or infusion center. It may also be given directly into the affected area during surgery or through a catheter placed directly into the tumor.
• Dosage: The dosage of FUDR varies depending on factors such as the type and severity of cancer being treated, the patient’s overall health, and their response to the medication. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on blood tests and other monitoring parameters.
• Treatment Schedule: FUDR is typically given in cycles, with periods of treatment followed by periods of rest to allow the body to recover from the side effects. The specific treatment schedule, including the duration of each cycle and the frequency of administration, will be determined by the healthcare provider.
• Monitoring: During treatment with FUDR, patients will undergo regular monitoring to assess their response to the medication and to monitor for potential side effects. This may include blood tests to check for changes in blood cell counts, liver function tests, and other assessments as needed.
• Supportive Care: Patients receiving FUDR may require supportive care to manage side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. This may include medications to control symptoms, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.
• Sun Protection: Due to the risk of skin reactions, patients receiving FUDR should take precautions to protect their skin from sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light. This may include wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a high SPF, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure.

It’s important for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and to report any side effects or concerns promptly. Treatment with FUDR may be complex and requires close monitoring by a multidisciplinary healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.

Other uses for this medicine

FUDR (Floxuridine) is primarily used for the treatment of certain types of cancer, particularly gastrointestinal cancers like colorectal cancer. However, it may also be used off-label for other conditions, such as hepatic metastases (cancer that has spread to the liver) and certain types of skin cancer.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using FUDR, there are several special precautions that should be followed:

• Medical Supervision: FUDR should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the administration of chemotherapy drugs. They will determine the appropriate dosage, treatment schedule, and duration of therapy based on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their response to treatment.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring is essential during treatment with FUDR to assess the patient’s response to the medication and to monitor for potential side effects. This may include blood tests to check for changes in blood cell counts, liver function tests, and other assessments as needed.
• Sun Protection: FUDR can increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to an increased risk of sunburn and other skin reactions. Patients receiving FUDR should take precautions to protect their skin from sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet (UV) light. This may include wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), and avoiding prolonged sun exposure.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: FUDR may harm an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. Pregnant women should not use FUDR unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is important to use effective contraception during treatment with FUDR and for some time afterward. It is not known if FUDR passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
• Liver Function: FUDR can cause liver toxicity, so patients with pre-existing liver disease or impaired liver function may require closer monitoring and dosage adjustments.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: FUDR can suppress bone marrow function, leading to decreased production of blood cells. Patients should be monitored for signs of anemia, infection, and bleeding during treatment.
• Allergic Reactions: Patients should be monitored for signs of allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness. Any signs of an allergic reaction should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
• Drug Interactions: Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking, as FUDR may interact with other drugs, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy.

It’s crucial for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare provider about any concerns or questions regarding the use of FUDR and to follow their instructions carefully throughout the course of treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• While there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with FUDR, it’s essential to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support your overall health during cancer treatment.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Eat small, frequent meals if you experience nausea or vomiting as a side effect of FUDR.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose of FUDR, contact your healthcare provider or oncology nurse for guidance as soon as possible.
• Depending on the circumstances, your healthcare provider may recommend rescheduling the missed dose or adjusting your treatment schedule accordingly.
• It’s important not to double the dose to make up for a missed one unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

FUDR (Floxuridine), like many chemotherapy medications, can cause a range of side effects. These side effects can vary in severity depending on factors such as the dose, duration of treatment, and individual patient factors. Some common side effects of FUDR include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite are common gastrointestinal side effects of FUDR. These symptoms can sometimes be severe and may require medications to manage.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: FUDR can suppress the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells, leading to an increased risk of anemia (low red blood cell count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). This can result in fatigue, increased susceptibility to infections, and bleeding problems.
• Liver Toxicity: FUDR can cause liver toxicity, leading to elevated liver enzymes and potentially liver damage. Symptoms of liver toxicity may include abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and changes in liver function tests.
• Skin Reactions: FUDR can cause skin reactions, including rash, redness, and sensitivity to sunlight. Patients may experience skin irritation or even severe skin damage if exposed to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light during treatment.
• Fatigue: Cancer and its treatment, including FUDR, can cause fatigue, which may persist throughout the course of treatment and beyond.
• Hair Loss: Some patients may experience hair thinning or hair loss (alopecia) while receiving FUDR treatment.
• Mucositis: FUDR can cause inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes lining the mouth and throat, resulting in pain, difficulty swallowing, and mouth sores.
• Flu-like Symptoms: Patients may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches during FUDR treatment.
• Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, FUDR can cause allergic reactions, which may manifest as rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis.

It’s essential for patients receiving FUDR to be closely monitored by their healthcare providers for side effects and to report any symptoms promptly. Supportive care measures, such as medications to manage nausea and pain, nutritional support, and adjustments to the treatment regimen, may be necessary to help manage side effects and improve quality of life during treatment.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of FUDR:

• Storage:
  • FUDR should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.
  • Keep FUDR out of reach of children and pets.
  • Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of any unused or expired FUDR medication properly according to local regulations.
  • Do not flush FUDR down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so.
  • Consult your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local waste disposal facility for guidance on proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or suspected overdose of FUDR, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bone marrow suppression (decreased blood cell counts).
• Be prepared to provide information about the amount of FUDR ingested, the time of ingestion, and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and pharmacists, that you are receiving treatment with FUDR.
• Attend all scheduled appointments for chemotherapy administration, blood tests, and follow-up assessments as recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Discuss any concerns or questions you have about FUDR treatment with your healthcare team.
• Be aware of potential drug interactions with other medications, supplements, or herbal products, and inform your healthcare provider of all substances you are taking.
• Follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding FUDR treatment, including dosage adjustments and supportive care measures.

It’s crucial to be well-informed about the proper storage, disposal, and management of FUDR to ensure safe and effective treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.