Efudix cream

Hi abi1304 ,

Thanks for getting in touch with us and welcome to our Online Community.

It’s natural to ask questions when you have just started a new treatment.

Efudix cream contains the chemical 5-Floururacil which is a type of chemotherapy drug. It has been proven to be active against early forms of skin cancers and pre-malignant skin conditions.  

The main side effect is skin irritation as the cream works by directly destroying the sun damaged skin cells. This information sheet for patients from the dermatology unit at Oxford University Hospital states

“Efudix cream can cause intense inflammation, crusting and redness and often an oozing of the whole area being treated. This is seen as a good sign as it shows that the cream is having an effect.

The time for results to show varies from person to person and their guidance as to when to expect results are:

• 1-3 weeks – inflammation with crusting and redness of the skin
• 3-6 weeks – Skin inflammation settling down
• 6-16 weeks – Clearance of sun damaged skin

Therefore, it may still be too early yet for you to notice any changes.

It’s natural to ask about hair loss. This would be a very rare side effect as the cream is a local treatment, but some people have reported hair loss. This patient leaflet states that 1:10,000 people may experience hair loss.

I hope this information is helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if there is anything else that we can help you with. We are available 7 days a week 8am to 8pm on 0808 808 0000. Or you can send an email.

Best wishes and I hope that all goes well with your treatment.

Ellen M-Macmillan

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist