Tegafur/Uracil (UFT® )

UFT®


Uses


What is UFT for?

UFT® is a combination oral chemotherapy used to treat certain types of cancer e.g. head and neck, colorectal, gastric, liver, gallbladder or bile duct, pancreatic, lung, breast, bladder, prostate and uterine cervical cancers.

How should I take or use UFT?

It is a capsule taken by mouth and swallowed whole with water. Take at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after food.

The dose given is based on your body weight and height. Take the exact number of capsules and follow the dosing schedule instructed by your doctor.

What should I do if I forget to take or use UFT?

If you miss a dose of UFT®, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing times. Do not double dose.


Precaution


What precautions should I take when taking or using UFT?

  • Use effective birth control during treatment and for 3 months after stopping UFT®. Inform your doctor if you or your partner plan for or suspect pregnancy.
  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any other medical conditions e.g. heart problems.

Side Effects


What are some common side effects of UFT?

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite, mouth sores
  • Diarrhea and/or abdominal pain
  • Decreased white and red blood cells, platelets
    This may increase your chances of getting infections, bruising or bleeding and feeling tired. Your doctor will schedule blood tests for you as needed.

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Fever of 38ËšC or higher
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising or black sticky stools
  • Severe diarrhea and/or abdominal pain
  • Yellowing of the skin or eye whites, dark tea-colored urine
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Skin rash or itch

Handling


How should I store UFT?

  • Keep away from children
  • Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
  • Store at room temperature

For more information


What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medication, inform your doctor immediately.

Disclaimers

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System, and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity, and Watsons), and the Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last Updated on March 2019



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