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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
 Posted - 01/02/2014 : 11:46:39
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| Starting 14 day treatment 2X a day this coming Monday. After researching effects I'm quite concerned. My treatment of Efudex will be on bridge of nose and cheeks. The Dr. said to use Aquafor to ease discomfort. Anyone know if it's ok to use during treatment? |
Edited by - Jans109 on 01/02/2014 12:38:59 |
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deruo
Canada
21 Posts |
Posted - 01/02/2014 : 21:07:40
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Jans109,
Yes, it is okay to use during treatment, but you should wait at least 2 or 3 hours after applying the Efudex before putting the Aquaphor on.
If you read through all the pages here, you'll get a difference of opinion on it's usage, but I don't think I started using it until week 3. You may not need to use it at all if you're only doing a 14 day treatment. If memory serves, I don't think I saw much of a reaction at all until day 7 or 8.
It really helped loosen up the tightness on my face (I did my entire face and scalp at once), during my 4th week of treatment, and the first few days after treatment finished. The important thing is to not apply it right away as you want the Efudex to sink into the skin to do its thing before applying anything on top of it that may reduce it's effectiveness. Don't put on too much as it can be difficult to wash off later, and your skin will be tender, so you don't want to wash it that vigorously.
Good luck with your treatment! |
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JackRussell
USA
18 Posts |
Posted - 01/03/2014 : 06:53:21
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| ....also Jans109, I found that patting a little cold water on my face throughout the day offered some relief. Your treatment though, will be as much psychological as physical. Pace yourself. In the end, I found it a healthy exercise in learning to appreciate what some other people have to live with as a permanent condition and to appreciate that I am fortunate. (PS - I had a little flaky skin on the bridge that Effudex cleared up. But now almost 7 years after it has returned. I wish I did 6 instead of 4&1/2 weeks.) |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 01/03/2014 : 10:48:23
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deruo,
Thanks for the reply! I'm so nervous about starting this treatment, but know I have no choice. I am so fortunate in only being prescribed the 14 day treatment, I hope! I would hate to have to start it all over again. I hope you are right and I won't need the Aquafor at all, but I am sceptical there. I'll keep you posted after I begin treatment. Again, thanks! |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 01/03/2014 : 10:53:38
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JackRussell,
Thanks for the reply and advice. I will use your suggestion of patting water on my face. I've also read about cold compresses. I agree that this will be as much psychological as physical. I've come to terms with it and now just want it to be done. And you are right, there are so many other people on this forum with much more severe problems. I am thankful for the small areas I have to treat.. I think one of the reasons my derm. only prescribed the 14 day treatment and on the small area is because I am a VERY senior lady! So he probably thinks I'll kick the bucket before I need more! I might fool him though! :) |
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mmj
USA
5 Posts |
Posted - 01/09/2014 : 14:42:37
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| 6 days left I have to work this weekend and I really need to wear foundation............I hope this doesn't mess up the work I have done |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 01/10/2014 : 05:05:58
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MMJ,
I am on day 5 of my 14 day treatment and so far I've had almost no reaction. Just a little redness in some spots. From what I have researched, I would advise against makeup. I know that's difficult, but I personally don't want to risk any problems that may cause. What reactions have you had? I'm staying inside fearing worse reactions from the sun. I am a 76 yr old woman and only treating the bridge of my nose and cheeks areas. I'm "on hold" waiting to discover what's in store from Efudex! |
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mmj
USA
5 Posts |
Posted - 01/11/2014 : 03:36:57
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well it showed through anyway after a couple hrs.....so today I will just face it...I work in a nursing home and don't want my residents to be upset for me,,,,,,when I first started I thought boy there isn't much here....BUT it it really worked in the middle of my face from forehead to chin and on my chest my Dr said to put on the bridge of my nose ...his nurse said do the whole face as it will not hurt good cells.....glad I did all at once..............I have been a sun lover all my life and I am now 67.....and still go to MX will just use sunscreen here on out
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mmj
USA
5 Posts |
Posted - 01/11/2014 : 03:40:03
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| also don't stop ....you have to make it up on the end....I am doing 21 days...done next wed.....it burns some and itches but I am told the end results are worth it.....get rid of those nasty cells |
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dipendy
USA
3 Posts |
Posted - 01/11/2014 : 08:18:13
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| Hello everyone. I have recently been prescribed efudex cream. I am concerned about using this on arms face chest and neck around my three ur old grand daughter. Does anyone know if it is safe to have on me with her around. Dr says ok as long as its dry but what if I sweat or she licks me (she likes to pretend she's a dog lol) any help would be appreciated. |
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anivoc
668 Posts |
Posted - 01/11/2014 : 09:34:27
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quote:
Originally posted by dipendy
Hello everyone. I have recently been prescribed efudex cream. I am concerned about using this on arms face chest and neck around my three ur old grand daughter. Does anyone know if it is safe to have on me with her around. Dr says ok as long as its dry but what if I sweat or she licks me (she likes to pretend she's a dog lol) any help would be appreciated.
Hi Dipendy...I moved this into the Efudex forum...
Efudex is VERY powerful stuff with lots of side effects on adults. I would be VERY careful around a child with it... I recommend you going back to your doctor and reminding him that you have a 3 year old...get his recomendation...and also his opinion ( if he has one) on picato gel.
Picato Gel is a new FDA approved cream that is very effective without near the toxicity of Efudex...
Good luck |
Edited by - anivoc on 01/11/2014 09:35:54 |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 01/11/2014 : 11:08:13
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dipendy,
I believe you are correct in being concerned about a 3 yr old around this stuff. I am only treating my nose and cheek areas and am concerned about touching after applying (before it's dry)and somehow getting it in my eyes or nostrils. I have rhinitis and have a constant runny nose. This is toxic stuff and pretty scary! I am on day 6 and still waiting for reactions. But you're having heavy duty treatment. Good luck!! I hope it all goes well with you. Keep us all informed! |
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dipendy
USA
3 Posts |
Posted - 01/13/2014 : 04:44:46
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| Thank you both for the info. That was the first question I asked my Dr. Is about it being around my grandchild and he said ily would b safe as long as its dry. I wasn't convinced as u said since its so rough on adults. I'm so appreciative for the responses. Best of luck for you all. |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 01/13/2014 : 06:59:56
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On my 8th day of treatment and have some red spots now although not much discomfort yet. My main treatment is on my nose. Having rhinitis I use a lot of Kleenex. A couple times I have inadvertently wiped some medication off before it's completely dry. Can someone tell me if I should reapply or not?
Having a hard time trying to figure how to "post" rather than "reply". Duh |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 01/20/2014 : 04:43:11
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| Finished 14 day of 2x a day treatment yesterday. Now I wait to see what happens next. Very little discomfort so far. Have spots on bridge of nose and one cheek. No visible reaction on other cheek so far. I feel so fortunate in comparison to others here on this forum, but will continue to report back for those that are receiving the 14 day treatment. Over and out. |
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mmj
USA
5 Posts |
Posted - 01/20/2014 : 14:33:25
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quote:
Originally posted by Jans109
Finished 14 day of 2x a day treatment yesterday. Now I wait to see what happens next. Very little discomfort so far. Have spots on bridge of nose and one cheek. No visible reaction on other cheek so far. I feel so fortunate in comparison to others here on this forum, but will continue to report back for those that are receiving the 14 day treatment. Over and out.
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mmj
USA
5 Posts |
Posted - 01/20/2014 : 14:47:29
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I just finished my Efudex 5 days ago...it is peeling and at night I bleed a bit but it is clearing up I am glad I did it....it wasn't the most fun I have had but the outcome will be worth it....I did the 21 days 2x daily for 1 week and then 1x daily for 2 weeks..................I did get a lot of reaction ...I WILL USE SUNSCREEN it seems to be clearing rather quickly
update.......I have been off efudex 10 days .....and my skin is a little redden in areas but it is healed......I AM VERY glad I went through this...... |
Edited by - mmj on 01/25/2014 15:18:13 |
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dipendy
USA
3 Posts |
Posted - 02/01/2014 : 06:30:25
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| Thanks for the help. I am just getting the efudex due to the expense. I also have decided to only great areas I can cover for the safety of my grandchild. This will be day one so anyone with side effect warnings or tips are appreciated. I will also keep my bed and bath locked to prevent my lil one from being around this medicatuon. I have to say I'm scared but seeing everyone on here strength does help much love and thanks to you all |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 02/01/2014 : 09:53:15
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| At day 27 after 14 day 2X daily treatment. Finished treatment and waited for the worse. Other than looking kind of "bad", with redness, peeling and some crusting, plus a bit of itchiness and some pain, I feel I have been really lucky. Of course, my doctor hasn't looked at my face yet. He didn't want to see me again until March! (sound familiar?) So I await his verdict. I started using makeup again a couple days ago and almost feel my normal self, even with a little peeling, etc. I will not be a happy camper if I have to start from scratch! |
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
18 Posts |
Posted - 02/27/2014 : 17:13:26
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I have posted on this site before about my experience with Efudex as a full face treatment and as a targeted treatment. Thought I would add one more! I went to the GP with a red spot on my leg and he referred me to the plastic surgeon who confirmed the BCC and booked me in for surgery ($650). I suggested I try Efudex again and he supported this option but expressed doubt as he felt the BCC was too deep. I tried it anyway, twice a day for three weeks and the spot seemed to reduce. Anyway, six months later, I went in for the surgery and while on the table mentioned the Efudex treatment. The surgeon took a closer look at the blemish and confirmed it was clearing up with no sign of infiltrations and gave me my $650 back. This stuff is seriously good and I recommend anyone try it before surgery or any more invasive treatments - for BCC's at least. Just in passing I should mention I also had a BCC on the other leg some years previously which I ended up with a week of pain, a skin graft and a bill for several thousand dollars - that was the dermatologist who suggested I try Efudex!
And thanks too for this excellent resource, whoever you are who set it up! |
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ch2013
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 03/18/2014 : 17:00:23
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| So glad I found this forum! Doctor prescribed Efudex for my hands and forearms, and suggested I do some research first before starting it. Guess she didn't want to tell me about the side effects and pain. I'll keep reading the posts here. |
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rick789
3 Posts |
Posted - 03/23/2014 : 05:04:05
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| Has anybody used Effudex on their lip with success? If so what was the frequency of your application? I was told to use it twice weekly for 3 months, this was some time ago, but I didn't get the problem cleared up. I'm considering alternative options but not sure what yet. Thanks in advance for any advice or opinions. |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 03/24/2014 : 10:40:17
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| After going thru my initial 2X daily for 2 weeks on my nose and cheeks, I finally had my dermatologist visit. He said all pre-cancerous spots were taken care of but he still had to freeze a place on my nose. In addition he froze 10 spots on my forehead. They are all almost healed now. (my appt. was March 6th) I was surprised he didn't have me do the Efudex on my forehead, but I would by far rather have them frozen off if possible. However, most of the area where I had the Efudex treatment now looks great! So overall, I'm pleased. |
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JackRussell
USA
18 Posts |
Posted - 03/27/2014 : 16:42:35
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| Allergic Reaction !!! - What the heck? I did this 7 years ago; a 30 day twice a day stint that was very successful. Well get this. I start this time with just a little on the bridge of the nose, collar area and back of hands. I got the expected reaction and after 7 days was settling into the experience when the areas treated started to itch significantly. I went on for 14 days but decided to stop because it did not seem right. Well then on the night of day 17 while asleep an esophageal spasm starts to come on. I have had this only once before after exposure to some chemicals. I narrowly avoided it but then on the following 3 days my hands started to swell and itch like H, and I broke out in hives and lumps. By day 21 I was in the emergency room because my lips were starting to swell. I needed 100mg of IV prednisone. I was put on 60 mg per day. After 3 days I immediately started to taper off the meds and now at day 29 I am off. This was a stupid wild ride. How the heck do I do 30 days like text book and then 7 years later have this crazy reaction? Its as though somewhere in between I acquired that genetic condition in which you cannot use Efudex. Go figure. I am still not right as my body tries to find it's center. I feel a few more days and hopefully I'll be back to center. WOW!!! |
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 03/28/2014 : 07:53:59
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quote:
Originally posted by JackRussell
Allergic Reaction !!! - What the heck? I did this 7 years ago; a 30 day twice a day stint that was very successful. Well get this. I start this time with just a little on the bridge of the nose, collar area and back of hands. I got the expected reaction and after 7 days was settling into the experience when the areas treated started to itch significantly. I went on for 14 days but decided to stop because it did not seem right. Well then on the night of day 17 while asleep an esophageal spasm starts to come on. I have had this only once before after exposure to some chemicals. I narrowly avoided it but then on the following 3 days my hands started to swell and itch like H, and I broke out in hives and lumps. By day 21 I was in the emergency room because my lips were starting to swell. I needed 100mg of IV prednisone. I was put on 60 mg per day. After 3 days I immediately started to taper off the meds and now at day 29 I am off. This was a stupid wild ride. How the heck do I do 30 days like text book and then 7 years later have this crazy reaction? Its as though somewhere in between I acquired that genetic condition in which you cannot use Efudex. Go figure. I am still not right as my body tries to find it's center. I feel a few more days and hopefully I'll be back to center. WOW!!!
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Jans109
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 03/28/2014 : 07:57:01
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| The allergic reaction is really scary! I'm sorry you've had to go thru this and hope you're fully healed soon! I feel so fortunate in being finished with my treatment and just hope I don't have to look at another one in the future. This is forum is such a good outlet to us all! |
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Colbres
USA
1 Posts |
Posted - 04/01/2014 : 09:16:29
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| I have been using Effudex on my lips. I am finished with my treatment but am wondering how I can go out into the world while I heal. I would run if I saw myself; I look contagious and HORRIBLE. Any suggestions? |
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ch2013
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 04/28/2014 : 08:59:04
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| I finished a round of Efudex on my forearms and hands, and now am 10 days in on my upper chest and neck. My arms and hands still have red spots healing. I posted a blog about this journey will photos, and included some other resources in it too. Hope it's helpful to your journey. http://skincancerjournal.blogspot.com/ |
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peterjm1003
Australia
11 Posts |
Posted - 04/30/2014 : 06:10:25
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Just a quick post to see if anyone needs specific advice.
I noticed anivoc has already recommended picato as a much quicker alternative to efudix, with similar effects but over a much shorter time frame.
I would definitely endorse that thinking. It is generally much more expensive, but is based on an extract of petty spurge/Euphorbia peplus - see the posts on that thread.
Efudix (5-Fluorouracil) works by disrupting the cell replication cycle because it is an analogue of one of the base pairs in DNA. For rapidly dividing cells (ie cancers and pre-malignant cells like actinic keratoses), they are preferentially destroyed, but this then involves the body's immune system, causing localised inflammation - sometimes severe. Some people react very strongly and are in a whole world of pain. Efudix works but it can be nasty.
If you are using efudix, the following should be noted :
1. Avoid the sun - it is photosenstive and this reinforces the inflammatory response
2. Use a basic moisturiser if this does not irritate - this will not affect the action of the efudix.
3. Use twice a day initially until a reaction develops then cut back to once a day.
4. Use for 3 - 4 weeks for Actinic keratoses (field treatment), up to 8 weeks (spot treatment) for proven or suspected intraepidermal carcinomas
5. If the reaction gets too bad, stop or cut back to every second day. Consider repeat course after lesions have resolved
Thanks for reading
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ch2013
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 04/30/2014 : 06:52:15
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Thank you for the info! I do have specific questions you may be able to help with.
If I have one or more active SCCs show up in the course of this treatment, how do I know there aren't more lurking in other areas of my skin? My first round on my forearms and hands uncovered over 70 spots total -- still healing, so don't know yet if the cream killed everything. On day 13 of round two -- this time upper chest and neck, and I'm covered in spots/rash. If spots show up every place I use Effudex, what does that say about all the areas I am not using it?
I'm reading conflicting statements about the risk of SCC metastasizing. Some research says only 5-10% do, other research says more. And does that mean from the total population of diagnosed, or per patient, or the number of lesions or identified SCCs?
Thanks for your input. Attached image.![]()
Image Insert:
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peterjm1003
Australia
11 Posts |
Posted - 04/30/2014 : 07:18:59
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Hi,
the reactions I can see from the photos indicate superficial or pre-malignant change - in other words they don't look like invasive SCC. Even if invasive that doesn't meant metastatic. So my initial impression is - don't worry.
(Qualifier - see a local doctor or dermatologist to confirm - I live in Australia and not registered to practice in the US)
Reaction to efudix doesn't mean it is confirmed SCC, it just means atypical cell. Metastatic disease is quite rare, 5-10%??? I think someone pulled that number out of their butt. A lot of these lesions will never progress beyond superficial atypia or intra-epidermal (superficial - confined to the epidermis). Primarily be concerned about spots/lesions on the face or neck or rapidly changing lesions.
Just to emphasise - reaction to efudix is NOT a diagnosis of SCC. I would recommend re-treat in 12 months and note any changes.
Thanks for reading |
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ch2013
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 04/30/2014 : 07:23:04
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| Thank you! Thank you! |
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sunni
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 05/02/2014 : 01:20:10
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| Lately I've read on a few derm sites and skin cancer blogs about a new protocol for BCC, efudex applied weekly for 8-9 months. This is supposed to kill cancer without inflammation or burning. How can this work if inflammation means the efudex is working? Has anyone known this protocol to be successful? |
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WolfpackGirl
USA
1 Posts |
Posted - 05/07/2014 : 19:36:47
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Hey everyone!
Thank you for your courage and taking the time to post all of your experiences with Efudex treatment.
I'm in my mid-30s and very fair-skinned, and I have had 9 instances of BCC and melanoma, requiring several surgeries (1 Mohs surgery). I have a lot of AK and a small BCC along my hairline and on my cheeks. My doctor suggested that we attack it all now with a 14-day course of Efudex.
When I was in the office recently for an excision, I asked if I should expect to miss any days of work, and the doctor kind of laughed at me. I don't think that this is a crazy question! I drive 50 miles to work each way and I'm concerned about trying to wear sunglasses in the blinding morning sun(my temples will be treated). I'm also worried that I won't be up to working if I'm in pain and I haven't slept very well. Infection is a slight concern given the open sores as well.
I like to think that I'm fairly tough (I've passed several kidney stones!), but I'm definitely concerned that this treatment will be worse than the doctor said. She basically made it sound like mosquito bites or a mild sunburn (as she handed me the brochures with scary pictures of Efudex treatment).
It was hard to try to schedule a block of time for treatment. I will start Efudex over Memorial Day weekend, as I have a big work deadline before that and a family reunion at the end of June that I have to travel to. I will try to post about my experience as I'm able to.
Again, thank you all for the time you've taken to share your thoughts and advice! |
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ch2013
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 05/07/2014 : 19:45:32
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I did take some time off from public work mainly because of the appearance, and because I was noticeably tired while using Efudex. Also, my skin was very photosensitive, and sunscreen stung too much to apply, so I stayed indoors as much as possible, and wore protective clothing, gloves, hat, and sunglasses when I did go outdoors. I've been keeping a 'blog' with photos of my progress. It's helpful because sometimes I don't think my skin is improving (or worsening) and the photos help me see progress. http://skincancerjournal.blogspot.com/
Good luck with your treatment -- keep us posted when you start over Memorial Day. |
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April
9 Posts |
Posted - 01/25/2015 : 21:46:38
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Is this efudex usually a one time treatment? or does it have to be repeated? Also it appears it effects all the skin area - such as the face and if there is a issue under the skin that it destroys it, to prevent from having mohs, etc. and it also destroys small BCC that may be on top of the skin?
Am going to the Dr next week and think I have one popping up and would like to ask if I could use this cream in that area and see if there is a reaction, because of where it is, if a biopsy is done it may leave a scar on the cheek area.
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joe866
USA
1 Posts |
Posted - 04/15/2015 : 12:32:36
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| I just finished a 14 days treatment of Efudex, twice daily, and I can't tell you how happy I am now that the pain is subsiding. My face, neck is a bright red mass of spots. My doctor says healing should be rapid, and I'm hoping so. I was unable to work for the last week of my treatment because I could not concentrate on my work with the constant pain and itching. I hope this short sacrifice pays off, and I get some positive results from the efudex treatments. |
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ch2013
USA
6 Posts |
Posted - 04/15/2015 : 12:39:22
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| Thanks for updating us all. I'm now post-treatment almost a year. A few small spots are looking questionable, but my last checkup with the dermatologist was clean, and I don't have to go back for 12 months this time. Stick with it --- it's worth it! |
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JackRussell
USA
18 Posts |
Posted - 06/01/2015 : 07:16:37
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| Hi - I thought I would offer a 1 year follow up to my post of March 27, 2014. In that post, I mention an unusual reaction to Effudex in which I had swelling, hives and esophageal spasms. Things for the most part straightened out after a few weeks of my post. Continuing though I had allergic reactions to environmental things such as pollen, etc that I never had. A year out now and I still have this over reaction but now minor. (No asthma or breathing issues, just skin.). It is just so strange how I did Efudex 8 years ago for a month and it went amazingly well with only the expected pain, etc. but no crazy side effect, and then now if I do it I totally mess up my immune system. I have never been able to find anything on this type of reaction and would love it if someone had some information. Thanks |
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Cotchin9
Australia
1 Posts |
Posted - 06/06/2015 : 07:00:32
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In the weeks leading up to my treatment, I had sleepless nights worrying about the pain and discomfort that was coming my way. A lot of internet posts had me concerned. I'm 45 with years of '70's, '80's and '90's sunscreenless damage on very fair, freckly skin. Well, I'm now on day 20 of a 21 day treatment and it's just not as bad as it's made out to be! The first 14 days were a breeze - I worked the whole time, and after explaining to people what I was up to, it was incredible the amount who said that they had done it themselves. The 3rd week is where it really kicked into gear.
I'm now beetroot red (I'm doing my entire face) with a forehead complete with flaky skin and scabs. My cheeks and nose are an even deeper ugly shade of purple. The creases where my nostrils meet my face are by far the most painful, but seriously, if a burn victim could click their fingers and trade places, they'd feel like they were sipping cocktails under a tropical gazebo! Yes, you won't look great but I'm yet to meet anyone so far who hasn't been full of encouragement. Yes, you'll be itchy. Big deal!
It's just not THAT bad! Trust me!!! You won't regret it... |
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JackRussell
USA
18 Posts |
Posted - 06/08/2015 : 04:27:14
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| I'm with you, its no big deal. I think the issue is that many people have had life too easy and then to do this is unbearable. My skin it sounds is much like yours but with much less sun exposure. I pushed thru 28 days. I had the purple skin, the scabs, cracking and bleeding, the works but it was no big deal. Sure there was discomfort but who cares; its only temporary. My only regret is that I did not do another week. Though my skin still came out great. It is the ultimate rejuvenation. Wish I did not develop this [now] allergic response that totally messes up my immune system because I would love to use it on my arms and a few other places. My face still looks good 8 years later. Of course I wear sun screen now. |
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NYArtist
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 09/14/2015 : 06:12:34
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Can someone please give me the recipe for home made eggplant/vinegar for skin cancer? Thanks. szukidavis@aol.com/
quote:
Originally posted by anivoc
The way they discovered efudex worked on skin cancer is when they were using it as a chemotherapy drug the people being treated for internal cancers ( who also by chance had known or unkown skin cancers) would light up everywhere there was a skin cancer.
What efudex does in 4 to 5 weeks bloodroot does in 24 hours. My derm was blown away by my bloodroot treatment pictures and agreed that it is exactly the same reaction as aldara or efudex but just much faster.
BTW Efudex can be purchased out of Canada or Mexico online for much less. I bought a tube in Tijuana when I was down there for $10. It can be ordered online at several online stores.
Curaderm, Sunspot both use the glycoalkaloids derived from eggplant and seem to get a similar reaction somewhere in between Efudex and Bloodroot.
I am currently experimenting with eggplant vinegar mixture with fingers crossed results so far. Several here (Mexico, Rocco and FForest) have had success using the kitchen sink approach using combos with success.
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Eddie_T
USA
22 Posts |
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Eddie_T
USA
22 Posts |
Posted - 08/06/2017 : 13:20:59
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Almost 20 years ago I has a forehead lesion removed by a plastic surgeon. Mohs was not mentioned but he left the site open until pathology results were in. This is the same site that something reappeared on recently. After trying many of the alternatives suggested in these forums I used Efudex to remove it however it ulcerated at one end. It did heal but left a lumpy scar and the lumpy end reopened. Again I applied Efudex and it ulcerated after a couple of days. Since Efudex is not recommended for application to ulcers I tried vinegar/O3 for about a week with little evidence of progress. It would scab and pucker around the perimeter and pus would drive the scab off after a couple of days. I have a bit of Curaderm from back when it was in a little plastic bottle and am applying it and covering with Micropore tape. The edges of the ulcer are keeping clean but there is still a bit of pus.
Since my Curaderm is well past any arbitrary expiry I am going to give Sunspot ES a try. Interestingly Lane Labs was involved in Curaderm way way back when I tried it on an AK unsuccessfully. I had read of it in a Dr. David Williams newsletter. Maybe Lane Labs was mfg it under license and bowed out when the FDA came down on it. Amazon seems to have the best price on Sunspot right now, $26.61.
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Edited by - Eddie_T on 08/06/2017 13:21:50 |
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Eddie_T
USA
22 Posts |
Posted - 08/12/2017 : 22:23:32
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| I haven't procured any Sunspot yet as Curaderm seems to be helping. The ulcer is showing signs of granulation an indication of filling in. I will continue my regimen which is to dry the ulcer and apply Curaderm twice daily covering with Micropore tape. I use a small scrap of tape which goes on white but becomes translucent and almost invisible within 15 minutes or so. I'll report back if this regimen works as it might indicate Curaderm as a companion treatment with Efudex in the case of ulceration. |
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Eddie_T
USA
22 Posts |
Posted - 08/29/2017 : 12:44:59
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| The ulcer appears to be healed, I hope and pay that it is. Though I was less than scientific it appears that Curaderm is a good followup if Efudex treatment results in an ulcer. Efudex instructions advise not to Apply Efudex to an ulcer as it might get into the bloodstream and cause side effects. |
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Eddie_T
USA
22 Posts |
Posted - 08/30/2017 : 12:20:02
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quote:
Originally posted by Eddie_T
Since my Curaderm is well past any arbitrary expiry I am going to give Sunspot ES a try. Interestingly Lane Labs was involved in Curaderm way way back when I tried it on an AK unsuccessfully. I had read of it in a Dr. David Williams newsletter. Maybe Lane Labs was mfg it under license and bowed out when the FDA came down on it.
Sorry for the misinformation the Lane Labs product was Skin Answer not CUraderm. Apparently Sunspot ES is the same or a similar product the feds gave Dr. Lane a hard time with Skin Answer. |
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hives
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 09/04/2017 : 14:52:10
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quote:
Originally posted by JackRussell
Allergic Reaction !!! - What the heck? I did this 7 years ago; a 30 day twice a day stint that was very successful. Well get this. I start this time with just a little on the bridge of the nose, collar area and back of hands. I got the expected reaction and after 7 days was settling into the experience when the areas treated started to itch significantly. I went on for 14 days but decided to stop because it did not seem right. Well then on the night of day 17 while asleep an esophageal spasm starts to come on. I have had this only once before after exposure to some chemicals. I narrowly avoided it but then on the following 3 days my hands started to swell and itch like H, and I broke out in hives and lumps. By day 21 I was in the emergency room because my lips were starting to swell. I needed 100mg of IV prednisone. I was put on 60 mg per day. After 3 days I immediately started to taper off the meds and now at day 29 I am off. This was a stupid wild ride. How the heck do I do 30 days like text book and then 7 years later have this crazy reaction? Its as though somewhere in between I acquired that genetic condition in which you cannot use Efudex. Go figure. I am still not right as my body tries to find it's center. I feel a few more days and hopefully I'll be back to center. WOW!!!
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hives
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 09/04/2017 : 15:19:34
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| Hives, fever, puritans and lethargy with efudex. I have used efudex very successfully according to my dermatologist with my treated skin scabbing off in the past. This time I applied efudex to my entire lower leg and upper arm. After 6 days of twice a day treatment I developed fever, lethargy and extreme itchiness all over my body. This is persisting days even after efudex has been stopped. My actinic keratosis on my non-treated leg and arm are swelling and reddening. I have read one report here by Jack Russell of an allergic reaction. Has anyone else had this? |
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anivoc
668 Posts |
Posted - 09/04/2017 : 17:56:42
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| Efudex is not just local it is systemic...How it was discovered that it had an effect on AK's was it used to be used as Chemotherapy drug...people with other more serious cancers were going through Chemo and all of a sudden AK's are popping up inflamed all over the place and then shriveling up and flaking off...this is what made the Pharm companies develop a lower dose cream for topical application....but it does also get "in your system" depending how much you applied it definitely could cause ak's elsewhere to be affected... |
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Eddie_T
USA
22 Posts |
Posted - 03/26/2018 : 09:56:52
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| The skin cancer on my forehead returned. I had used Effudex until eruption then switched to Curaderm and Micropore until healed. It left a noticeable crater which I now attribute to cancel cells around the perimeter. The return was around the perimeter which seems to confirm this. I applied flourouracil for a couple of weeks then switched to Sunspot ES and Micropore until healed (about three weeks). The crater is less noticeable this time so hopefully I got it all. If it does reappear I'll just repeat the regimen. |
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Topic |
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Efudex
