Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Fluorouracil cream and topical solution are employed in the treatment of actinic or solar keratoses, which are characterized by scaly or crusted lesions on the skin due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. This medication is also utilized to address superficial basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer, when conventional treatments are not viable.
Fluorouracil belongs to a class of medications known as antimetabolites, functioning by eliminating rapidly dividing cells, including the abnormal cells present in actinic keratoses and basal cell carcinoma.
Uses and Dosage
Fluorouracil is available as both a solution and a cream for skin application. Typically, it’s applied to affected areas twice daily, aiming for consistent application times each day.
Use fluorouracil precisely as directed, avoiding applying more or less than prescribed or using it more frequently than instructed by your doctor.
If treating actinic or solar keratoses, continue using fluorouracil until the lesions begin to peel off, usually within 2 to 4 weeks. However, complete healing may take 1 or 2 months after discontinuing fluorouracil.
For basal cell carcinoma treatment, continue using fluorouracil until the lesions disappear, which typically takes at least 3 to 6 weeks, but may extend to 10 to 12 weeks.
During the initial weeks of treatment, expect the treated areas and surrounding skin to feel irritated and exhibit redness, swelling, and scaling. These are positive signs that fluorouracil is effective. Refrain from discontinuing fluorouracil unless instructed by your doctor.
Apply fluorouracil cream using a nonmetal applicator, glove, or your finger. If using your finger, ensure thorough hand washing immediately afterward. Unless advised by your doctor, do not cover the treated areas with bandages or dressings.
Avoid applying fluorouracil cream or topical solution to the eyelids, eyes, nose, or mouth.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- burning, crusting, redness, discoloration, irritation, pain, itching, rash, or soreness at the site of application
- difficulty sleeping
- increased sensitivity to the sun
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe stomach pain
- bloody diarrhea
- vomiting
- fever
- chills
- severe red skin rash
Caution
- Before initiating fluorouracil treatment, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to fluorouracil, flucytosine, capecitabine, or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients, such as peanut oil in some brands, which can provoke allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, especially if you have a deficiency in a certain enzyme (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase – DPD) or if you have red, irritated, infected, or open sores on the skin.
- This medication may heighten your sensitivity to sunlight. Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and utilize sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. After applying fluorouracil cream, wait at least 2 hours before applying sunscreen or moisturizer to the treated area. Refrain from using other skin products, including creams, lotions, medications, or cosmetics, unless directed by your doctor. Notify your doctor promptly if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
- Avoid using this medication during pregnancy, as it may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control with your doctor. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
- It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Tolak Cream is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Tolak Cream cream:
- 4 %
FAQ
How long does it take for Tolak Cream to work?
How long it takes for Tolak Cream to work can differ from person to person, depending on how severe your condition is. You should expect to see improvements to your skin within 4 weeks.
How long after applying Tolak Cream can you shower?
The manufacturer doesn’t say how soon you can shower after applying Tolak Cream. But in order to work well, this medication needs to be absorbed into the skin.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/tolak/what-is#faqs
- https://medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/tolak#adverseeffects
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/fluorouracil-topical-route/description/drg-20063877
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-170039/tolak-topical/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605010.html
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/tolak-cream.html
