fluorouracil + salicylic acid at a glance
Medicine class
Topical antimetabolite combined with a keratolytic agent
Licensed use
Grade I or II hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses in immunocompetent adults
Form
Film-forming cutaneous solution applied with the attached brush
Sun exposure
Protect treated skin from excessive sunlight and avoid sunbeds
What is fluorouracil + salicylic acid used for?
This product is licensed for:
Topical treatment of grade I or II hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses in immunocompetent adults.
It is not licensed for basal cell carcinoma or Bowen’s disease, which should not be treated with this formulation.
How does fluorouracil + salicylic acid work?
Fluorouracil disrupts DNA and RNA production, restricting the growth of abnormal sun-damaged cells. Salicylic acid loosens thickened surface cells, reducing hyperkeratosis and improving fluorouracil penetration.
How to take fluorouracil + salicylic acid
For skin use only. Follow the prescribed instructions and apply only to the identified treatment area.
Before reapplication, gently peel away the existing white film; warm water may help.
Wipe excess solution from the brush against the bottle neck, then dab it onto the intended skin.
Let it dry into a film and do not cover it with a dressing.
Avoid the eyes, mouth, nostrils, genital surfaces, bleeding lesions and hairy skin.
Close the bottle tightly. Do not use solution that has dried out or contains crystals.
Keep away from flames, lit cigarettes and heat-producing devices. Avoid contact with clothing, fabrics and acrylic surfaces because it may stain them.
fluorouracil + salicylic acid side effects
Common or expected effects
- Redness, inflammation, burning, pain or itching at the application site
- Scaling or whitish skin discolouration
- Scabbing, mild bleeding or superficial skin erosion
- Headache
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe or intolerable application-site inflammation
- Bleeding from the treated lesion
- Marked swelling or ulceration
- A spreading itchy, red or blistering rash suggesting contact allergy
fluorouracil + salicylic acid in pregnancy
Do not use during pregnancy or if pregnancy is possible. Contact the prescriber if pregnancy occurs or is suspected.
fluorouracil + salicylic acid while breastfeeding
Do not use while breastfeeding. It is unknown whether fluorouracil or its metabolites enter human milk after skin application, and risk to a breastfed child cannot be excluded.
fluorouracil + salicylic acid interactions
Tell the prescriber or pharmacist about all medicines, particularly:
Brivudine, sorivudine and related antiviral nucleoside analogues
These inhibit fluorouracil breakdown and can substantially increase toxicity; concurrent or recent use is contraindicated.
Phenytoin
Fluorouracil has been associated with increased phenytoin concentrations and possible toxicity.
Methotrexate
Absorbed salicylic acid may increase unwanted effects.
Sulfonylureas
Common questions about fluorouracil + salicylic acid
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Why does it form a white film?
The solvents evaporate after application, leaving a film that helps the active ingredients enter the affected epidermis.
Should I remove the old film?
Yes. Gently peel it away before reapplication; warm water may make removal easier.
Is redness normal?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.