5 - FLUORO URACIL ASSAY (5 FU)

5‑fluorouracil (5‑FU) is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various cancers, including colorectal, stomach, breast, pancreatic and certain head and neck cancers. It can be given systemically (IV) or topically for precancerous skin lesions and some early skin cancers. 5‑FU works by interfering with DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cancer cells, slowing tumor growth and causing cell death.

5‑Fluorouracil (5‑FU) cream is a topical chemotherapeutic medication used to treat precancerous sun‑damaged skin lesions (actinic keratoses) and some superficial skin cancers. It’s a pyrimidine antimetabolite that interferes with DNA/RNA synthesis in abnormal cells, causing them to die. Applied by prescription, it commonly causes local inflammation, redness, pain, crusting and sensitivity; follow medical guidance during treatment.

Because 5-FU is S-phase–specific and time-dependent, a 46-hour continuous infusion maintains steady therapeutic concentrations, maximizing tumor cell kill while reducing peak-related toxicities seen with bolus dosing. This schedule increases cumulative drug exposure and effectiveness, improves tolerability, fits with combination regimens (such as leucovorin), and allows outpatient administration.

5‑fluorouracil (5‑FU) resistance in colorectal cancer occurs when tumor cells no longer respond to 5‑FU chemotherapy, reducing its ability to block DNA/RNA synthesis and kill cells. Mechanisms include increased thymidylate synthase, altered drug activation/metabolism, enhanced DNA repair, drug efflux or reduced uptake, and evasion of apoptosis. Resistance leads to treatment failure and necessitates alternative or combination therapies.

5‑Fluorouracil (5‑FU) treats many solid tumours, especially colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer, gastric and esophageal cancers, pancreatic cancer, head and neck cancers, and anal cancer. It's also used in some breast cancer regimens and as topical fluorouracil for premalignant skin lesions and superficial basal cell carcinoma. Often given in combination chemotherapy protocols for advanced or metastatic disease.

Prices vary by country, dose and brand. Typical retail ranges: in the US about $10–$200 per vial (strength-dependent); in India roughly ₹50–₹600 per vial; in the UK procurement prices are much lower (a few pounds per vial). Hospital administration, compounding and insurance influence final patient cost. Check a local pharmacy or hospital for exact pricing for the specific vial strength and preparation.