Efudex cream side effects

New to the forum with a question that may seem silly but…

I have a chronic condition with functional neurological symptoms that gift to me headaches, vision problems and poor balance.

I was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in 2017 and was treated by surgical removal. The cancer returned last year and was treated with Efudex cream. Whilst using the cream my neurological symptoms got worse during the period of application but started to  improved approximately 5-6 weeks later. Advice from my GP and hospital doctor was that the strength of the cream and topical application would not be the cause of the deterioration of the neurological symptoms which seemed correct to me.

In the last week I have been asked to apply Efudex again (4 months after the last application ) and once more the neurological symptoms are deteriorating.

Is it possible that Efudex is causing the deterioration? Has anyone had similar experience with the medication. 

Thank you for any help. 

Parents
  • Hi, I have been using Eufidix of and on for the last 7 years for recurring Actinic Keratosis . Apart from the red soreness the only side effects I have thought might be connected to it was a strange off metallic taste I had when treating near my nose recently.  I am going to start treatment on my upper lip shortly so it may come back. Will have to see. Wishing you all the best. Xx

  • I had to treat both upper and lower lips too Be prepared to look a tad scary I was lucky as treated mine during Covid so had a mask on when I went out 

  • Yes, a week in and I have a very interesting looking red patch on my upper lip just under my nose. It's rather sore already but only another 2 weeks of treatment and 3 weeks of recovery and I will be back to normal!!! So  far not had any taste disturbances.  After 7 years of using Efudix I am well used to people aking what have you done to your face!  I now have a BCC on my nose which will require surgery with a graft so that should be fun! Take care, keep well. Xx

Reply
  • Yes, a week in and I have a very interesting looking red patch on my upper lip just under my nose. It's rather sore already but only another 2 weeks of treatment and 3 weeks of recovery and I will be back to normal!!! So  far not had any taste disturbances.  After 7 years of using Efudix I am well used to people aking what have you done to your face!  I now have a BCC on my nose which will require surgery with a graft so that should be fun! Take care, keep well. Xx

Children