5-Fluorouracil

Definition

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is an antimetabolite chemotherapeutic drug used to treat various cancers, including colorectal, breast, and head and neck cancers. It works by inhibiting thymidylate synthase, which disrupts DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 5-FU is often administered intravenously but can also be given topically for certain skin cancers.
2. It is a part of the pyrimidine analog class of drugs.
3. Common side effects include myelosuppression, mucositis, and gastrointestinal distress.
4. Leucovorin is sometimes co-administered with 5-FU to enhance its efficacy.
5. Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency can lead to severe toxicity in patients treated with 5-FU.

Review Questions

• What enzyme does 5-Fluorouracil inhibit?
• Name two common side effects associated with 5-Fluorouracil therapy.
• Why might leucovorin be administered alongside 5-Fluorouracil?

Related terms

Thymidylate Synthase: An enzyme targeted by 5-FU that plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis.

Leucovorin: A form of folic acid used to enhance the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs like 5-FU.

Myelosuppression:

A significant reduction in bone marrow activity leading to decreased production of blood cells, commonly seen as a side effect of chemotherapy.