Tegafur+uracil
About Tegafur+uracil
Tegafur+uracil belongs to the group of anti-cancer medicines indicated with calcium folinate for the first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is a disease in which the cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control.
Tegafur+uracil contains Tegafur and Uracil, which work by interfering with the growth and multiplication of cancer cells. Thereby, it helps treat cancer.
In some cases, Tegafur+uracil may cause side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Most of these side effects may not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. Do not be reluctant to talk with your doctor if any of the side effects persist or worsen.
Do not take Tegafur+uracil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This medicine is not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established. Keep the doctor informed about your health condition and medications to rule out any side effects/interactions.
Uses of Tegafur+uracil
Medicinal Benefits
Tegafur+uracil belongs to the group of anti-cancer medicines indicated for the first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer with calcium folinate. Tegafur+uracil contains Tegafur and Uracil, which work by interfering with the growth and multiplication of cancer cells. Thus, it helps treat cancer.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Tegafur+uracil
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Asthenia (weakness)
- Stomatitis/mucositis (inflammation in mouth)
Drug Warnings
Do not take Tegafur+uracil if you are allergic to any of its components or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult the doctor immediately if you become pregnant during treatment with Tegafur+uracil. Tegafur+uracil is not recommended for children, paediatrics and adolescents. Inform the doctor if you experience symptoms of infection (fever or sudden unwell feeling), unexplained bleeding or bruising (bleeding gums, nose bleeds, rashes or blood spots on the skin), anaemia (tiredness and breathlessness) or conjunctivitis (sore and inflamed eyes). Let the doctor know if you take other medicines, including supplements or herbal products.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is not known if alcohol affects Tegafur+uracil. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy
unsafeTegafur+uracil is not recommended during pregnancy as it may cause foetal harm. Women with childbearing potential are advised to avoid becoming pregnant during treatment with Tegafur+uracil.
Breast Feeding
unsafeThis medicine may pass into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Tegafur+uracil and for a few months afterwards.
Driving
cautionTegafur+uracil may cause tiredness. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience any side effects that might lessen your ability to do so.
Liver
cautionWhen Tegafur+uracil is used, patients with mild to moderate hepatic dysfunction should be closely monitored by liver function tests.
Kidney
consult your doctorIn patients with renal impairment, Tegafur+uracil has not been used extensively. When using this medicine in such patients, physicians ought to proceed with caution.
Children
unsafeTegafur+uracil is not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain proper weight.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Include vegetables and fruits in your diet.
- Avoid fast food, fried food, processed meats, refined carbs and added sugar.
- Get optimal sleep; rest well.
- Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
Special Advise
Tegafur+uracil may harm the developing baby. Therefore, it is not advisable to become pregnant or father a child during treatment with Tegafur+uracil. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a few months afterwards.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Colorectal cancer: It is a cancer of the colon or rectum. Colorectal cancer is the growth of cells in the lower end of the digestive tract. Most of these cancers begin as polyps (non-cancerous growths). Symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, blood in the stool, and changes in bowel habits like constipation or diarrhoea.
FAQs
Tegafur+uracil is used to treat Colorectal cancer.
Tegafur+uracil works by interfering with the growth and multiplication of cancer cells. Thereby, it helps treat cancer.
Tegafur+uracil may cause diarrhoea in some cases. Drink plenty of fluids if you have diarrhoea. Consult the doctor if you experience severe diarrhoea; your doctor may initiate supportive care or interrupt medication based on your condition. In patients with severe diarrhoea, careful monitoring and fluid and electrolyte replacement are recommended to prevent dehydration.
Tegafur+uracil may reduce the number of white blood cells, which help fight infections. This might increase the risk of infections. Consult the doctor if you experience symptoms of infection, such as a fever, or if you suddenly feel unwell.
Tegafur+uracil may affect your ability to become pregnant or father a child. Prior to the start of the treatment, discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns about fertility.
