Efudix Cream - 5% 20g Tube

Efudix Cream - 5% 20g Tube

What is Efudix?
Efudix is used in the treatment of superficial pre-malignant and malignant skin lesions as well as certain skin conditions. Such conditions include various types of keratoses (horny growth of skin), keratocanthoma (firm nodule on the skin), Bowen's disease, and superficial basal-cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer).

How is Efudix used?
For pre-malignant conditions, apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area once or twice a day. An occlusive dressing is unnecessary.

For malignant conditions, apply the cream once or twice daily under a sealed dressing where practicable.

Treatment should continue until there there is an inflammatory response from the treated area, preferably with some erosion in pre-malignant conditions. The course of therapy usually lasts around three weeks to a month, but may be extended if directed. Severe discomfort may be alleviated by the use of a topical steroid cream.

Generally, facial lesions respond more quickly than those on the body or lower limbs, while those on the hands and forearms respond more slowly.

Note that healing may be completed only after one or two months after stopping treatment.

There are no special precautions for elderly patients, as the indicated conditions for Efudix are common in the elderly.

Do not dilute the cream and store at a maximum temperature of 30 degrees celcius; recommended shelf life is 60 months.

Adverse effects
While well tolerated, flushing (transient erythema) may occur in healthy skin around the area being treated and any pre-existing sub-clinical lesions may become apparent. Intensity of reaction may increase with exposure to sunlight. Dermatitis, allergic skin reactions and erythema multiforme have been reported, although the latter is rare.

Please note that excessive use of Efudix may lead to clinically significant systemic toxicity, especially on ulcerated or broken skin, but used as directed, this should not occur.

Warnings
Efudix is for topical use only. The area of skin being treated should not exceed approximately 23cm x 23cm (500cm) at any one time; larger areas should be treated one section at a time.

Care should be taken to avoid contact with the eyes or any mucous membranes; wash your hands thoroughly after application.

Efudix is contraindicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to the cream or parabens (chemicals widely used as preservatives in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries). It is also contraindicated during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

The cream is not recommended for use in children.

If you notice or experience any adverse reaction not listed or concern you, contact your medical professional.