5-Fluorouracil (Efudex) & Calcipotriene (Dovonex) Treatment

Topical 5-Fluorouracil (Efudex) is a prescription medication which is FDA-approved to treat pre-cancers of the skin known as actinic keratoses. By adding calcipotriene (Dovonex), the treatment duration can be greatly reduced with the same results.

  • YOU WILL EXPERIENCE A SKIN REACTION. This treatment specifically targets pre-cancerous cells and sun-damaged skin but has little effect on normal skin. In general, skin with more sun-damage will have a more intense reaction. Treatment will result in healthier, smoother skin with a reduced risk of skin cancers.

Before Starting

  • Stop current skin products. Use only gentle soap (Dove Sensitive Bar, CeraVe Moisturizing Bar, Vanicream Bar or Aveeno Moisturizing Bar), plain Vaseline ointment, a zinc-based sunscreen SPF 50 on the treatment area.

Instructions

1) Cleanse the treatment area with a gentle soap. Completely dry area with a towel.

2) Apply a thin layer of Efudex/Dovonex cream to your treatment area. Do NOT apply close to the eyes/eyelids/lips.

3) You may apply Vaseline every 1-2 hours to keep skin protected and to speed healing.

*Use ONLY on the specific area discussed at your appointment. Never treat more than one area at a time

*Use the Fluorocal TWICE DAILY until the area becomes pink and slightly “scabby” then STOP. You do NOT need to count the days of treatment. Treatment times vary. These are SUGGESTED treatment durations. Use until you develop a reaction then STOP regardless of the days.

  • Face / Scalp : TWICE DAILY for ~ 5 days (varies)

  • Forearms or chest or lower legs: TWICE DAILY for ~ 7 days (varies)

*IMPORTANT: YOU MUST USE STRICT SUN PROTECTION DURING TREATMENT & UNTIL SKIN IS HEALED

  • Minimize sun exposure between 8a-6pm.

  • Wear protective clothing each time you leave the home (including while driving). This includes a wide-brimmed hat, high-collar long-sleeved shirt and/or pants depending on your treatment areas.

  • If area cannot be covered by clothing, use sunscreen containing zinc or titanium (most “baby” brands).

What to Expect

Common symptoms

  • Itching, burning, tenderness, redness, oozing, mild swelling, crusting

  • Crusting/scabs may take up to 2 weeks to heal

  • Redness disappears over several months

Uncommon/rare side effects *If you experience any of the following symptoms, STOP treatment and please call our office.

  • Ulceration: Deep bleeding sores in the treatment area

  • Infection: Severe swelling, foul-smelling milky drainage, with or without fever

  • Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sores in the mouth

How Will I Receive This Medication?

*This medication was sent to a special compounding pharmacy.

*You should be contacted within 2 days by the pharmacy, they will take your payment information & your medication will be mailed to you.

*If you have not been contacted, please call or text MedRock Pharmacy in Tampa, FL 727-240-1341