Floxuridine (also known as 5-FUDR, Fluorouracil or FUDR) is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, including colorectal, pancreatic, gastric, and head and neck cancers. It works by blocking the enzymes that are necessary for cell division, thereby stopping the growth of cancer cells. Floxuridine is usually given intravenously or in pill form. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, and mouth sores. More serious side effects can include anemia, low white blood cell count, and liver toxicity.
Floxuridine is a chemotherapy medication used to treat specific cancers [1, 2]. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
- Type: Floxuridine is classified as an antimetabolite, a type of cancer medication that disrupts the growth and reproduction of cancer cells [1].
- Use: It's primarily used for palliative management of gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma that has spread to the liver (hepatatic metastases) [1, 2]. Gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma refers to certain cancers originating in the stomach or intestines.
- Administration: Due to its targeted effect, Floxuridine is administered through a continuous infusion pump directly into the artery supplying blood to the tumor (hepatic artery infusion) [2, 3]. This method delivers higher concentrations of the drug to the cancer cells while minimizing side effects on other parts of the body [3].
How it works: Floxuridine interferes with the production of DNA, a crucial component for cell growth and division. By disrupting DNA synthesis, it hinders the ability of cancer cells to multiply [2].
Important considerations:
- Floxuridine is typically used when other treatment options like surgery are not suitable [2].
- It's a palliative treatment, meaning it aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life rather than cure the cancer [1].
- Floxuridine can cause side effects, which a healthcare professional will discuss before and during treatment [2].
Here are some additional details to remember:
- Floxuridine was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1970 [4].
- It's available as a powder for injection that needs to be reconstituted before use [4].