Pharma fluorouracil

When given intravenously, fluorouracil is widely distributed, including into the cerebrospinal fluid. Elimination is mainly by metabolism.Because of its severe toxicity to the GI tract, 5-FU is given IV or, in the case of skin cancer, topically  The drug penetrates well into all tissues, including the CNS. 5-FU is rapidly metabolized in the liver, lung, and kidney. It is eventually converted to fluoro-β-alanine, which is removed in the urine, and to CO2, which is exhaled. The dose of 5-FU must be adjusted in the case of impaired hepatic function. Increased rate of 5-FU catabolism through elevated levels of dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) can decrease the bioavailability of 5-FU. The DPD level varies from individual to individual and may differ by as much as sixfold in the general population. Knowledge about an individual’s DPD activity should allow more appropriate dosing of 5-FU .