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What Causes Rash And Swelling On The Skin After Using Fluorouracil?

Posted on Thu, 25 May 2017

Question: I've been under the care of a dermatologist for solar keratosis. I am using fluorouracil cream 5% weekly to kill the pre-cancerous cells on the top of my head and arms and neck. I was instructed to apply the cream for 6 months. At the end of five and one half months my arms and neck erupted in a severe rash, swelling and flaking skin. I normally have dry skin and also prescribed ammonium lactate to nourish it. When I applied the lotion to the affected areas it burned and stung and became quite enflamed. I've stopped everything one week ago but the healing process is slow. I am also prescribed Atorvastatin 10 mg. for cholesterol and Losartan Pot/hctz 100-25 mg. for blood pressure. I was wondering if there could have been a drug interaction. The pharmacy I used just switched manufacturers of the atorvastatin and losartan at the same time I suffered this skin reaction. Any suggestions?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
irritant reaction to flurouracil, doesn't seem to be drug interaction

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at HealthcareMagic
I have gone through your complaints and understand your concern.
According to your complaints it seems to be an irritant reaction to flurouracil.
It doesn't seem to be related to atorvastatin and losartan or due to any drug reaction.
If I was your treating doctor I would recommend you to apply cortisone cream on flaky and dry skin twice daily along with frequent and liberal application of a moisturising lotion on the entire arms and neck 2-3 times in a day.
This should resolve the rash.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj