Efudix
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Reviewed on Oct 05, 2023. by Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell Writer & Clinical Content Reviewer Registered with GPhC (No. 2241935) Next review due on October 06, 2026.
Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell

Last updated on Oct 05, 2023.

Product info

  • Efudix 5% cream treats actinic keratosis by inhibiting DNA repair in damaged cells.

  • It’s a chemotherapy drug that’s part of a group of medicines known as anti-metabolites.
  • Apply once or twice daily for 3-4 weeks, avoiding eyes, mouth, and large areas.

Efudix

What is Efudix?

Efudix 5% cream treats actinic keratosis. Actinic keratosis is a condition that can be identified by patches of dry, scaly or rough skin. The patches are usually about 1-2 cm across and can be either red, brown or the same colour as your skin. Although most of the time the patches aren’t anything serious, they could become skin cancer if left untreated.[1]
As a result, it’s important to avoid too much sun exposure to your keratoses until they’re sorted.

Efudix is a chemotherapy drug that’s part of a group of medicines known as anti-metabolites. Anti-metabolites prevent cells from making and repairing DNA. This can stop them from working properly. [2]

How does Efudix work?

Fluorouracil is the active ingredient found in Efudix. When applied to the skin, it binds to an enzyme, which stops the production of a chemical needed for DNA repair. As a result, your skin cells are unable to repair themselves, preventing cell growth and, eventually, causing cell death.[3]
Also, when applied topically, Efudix targets actinic skin without affecting normal skin, resulting in minimal impact on healthy skin.

Treated trusted sources:

  1. National Health Service (2023). Actinic keratoses
  2. Cancer Research UK (2023). Fluorouracil (5FU).
  3. Marques E, Chen TM. Actinic Keratosis. [Updated 2022 Aug 23]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan
treated.com This page was written by The Treated Content Team.
Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell 1218322
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell on October 06, 2023. Next review due on October 06, 2026.

How we source info.

When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.

Efudix

How to apply Efudix

It’s important to use Efudix correctly to minimise side effects. To use Efudix, follow the instructions below:

  • Apply a thin layer of the cream to your affected skin, avoiding contact with your mouth and eyes.
  • Don’t apply Efudix to open cuts, ulcerated or inflamed skin, as it can be absorbed into your bloodstream and can cause side effects.
  • Don’t apply to an area larger than 9×9 inches (approximately the size of a dinner plate). If the area that needs to be treated is larger, you should apply it in sections.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after using Efudix.
  • Apply a dressing if advised.
  • Apply once or twice a day for 3-4 weeks.

The area you’re applying to can become red or inflamed. This is completely normal and is a sign that Efudix is working. Once the treatment is complete, it can take 1-2 months for your skin to heal completely.

Things to avoid when using Efudix:

  • Don’t smoke or go close to an open flame. Efudix is flammable and can cause severe burns.
  • Stay out of direct sunlight when possible – the effects of Efudix may be increased by sunlight, which can cause skin reactions.
  • Don’t use a sunlamp, sun bed, or tanning bed.

What happens if I make a mistake whilst applying Efudix?

If you miss a dose, apply the cream as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip it.

If you accidentally get some cream in your eye, nose or mouth, wash it off straight away and contact your doctor.

treated.com This page was written by The Treated Content Team.
Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell 1218322
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Alexandra Cristina Cowell on October 06, 2023. Next review due on October 06, 2026.

How we source info.

When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.

Efudix

Efudix is not suitable for everyone, to make sure it’s safe for you there are some things you need to know.

Here’s all the official info on it. If anything is unclear, let our clinician know, and they can talk with you about it.

Efudix

FAQ: Efudix

Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.

How effective is Efudix?

Answer:
A study from 2019 found that 5% fluorouracil (the active ingredient in Efudix) was one of the most effective treatments for actinic keratosis.[2] Patients treated with 5% fluorouracil had an 82.4% success rate, with 74.7% of them remaining actinic keratoses free. This was considerably better than imiquimod (Zyclara), which led to a 53.9% chance of remaining actinic keratosis free. The numbers were even lower for drugs MAL-PDT and Ingenol Mebutate, showing that Efudix may be the most effective treatment for actinic keratosis. [2]

How does Efudix compare to other treatments?

Answer:
Other options for actinic keratosis include prescription creams and gels, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT) and surgery.[1] Other drugs such as Aldara and Solaraze are similar treatments, but with different active ingredients. Depending on the extent of your symptoms, our clinicians will recommend what’s best for you. You may also be advised to use a combination of treatments if needed.

What are the side effects of Efudix?

Answer:
After applying Efudix, you’re likely to get some redness, swelling, inflammation and discomfort. This is normal, and is the usual reaction after application.

But on top of this, as with all drugs, Efudix has some other side effects that can possibly affect you. These side effects include:

  • Stomach problems

  • Swelling and soreness of the mouth and tongue

  • Fever


These can happen if you use too much cream, or apply it to an open cut. If you experience any of these side effects, contact a clinician immediately.

Is Efudix available without a prescription?

Answer:
Yes, Efudix is only available on prescription. That’s because it’s not safe for everyone to take, especially if you’re fertile. To get a prescription for Efudix, talk to us about your health. We’ll recommend it if it’s right for you.

Can I use Efudix when I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Answer:
Pregnancy
Don’t use Efudix if you’re pregnant or think you might be. And if there’s any chance you could become pregnant, you should use contraception during treatment and for seven months after treatment has ended. If you become pregnant, speak to your doctor immediately and undergo genetic counselling.

Male patients
Male patients should also use contraception during treatment and for four months after treatment has ended. Efudix can affect fertility, so it’s not recommended for men trying to have a child.

Breastfeeding
Do not use Efudix if you’re breastfeeding. If it’s necessary to use, discontinue breastfeeding until the treatment has ended.

Treated trusted sources:

  1. Patient leaflet – Efudix 5% Cream
  2. Jansen, M. H. E., Kessels, J. P. H. M., Nelemans, P. J., Kouloubis, N., Arits, A. H. M. M., van Pelt, H. P. A., Quaedvlieg, P. J. F., Essers, B. A. B., Steijlen, P. M., Kelleners-Smeets, N. W. J., & Mosterd, K. (2019). Randomized Trial of Four Treatment Approaches for Actinic Keratosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 380(10), 935-946.

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