Using Efudex
I started using Efudex yesterday and reading previous discussion I see that alot of people use this cream for 14 days. My dermatologist told me to use for 28 days (just on the right side of my nose) so I am concerned that it is too long. He also prescribed Taro-Mupirocin ointment and Cortoderm cream (to be used as needed). Has anyone else use any of these creams.
...I can completely understand your concern. It seems that instructions can vary greatly from one patient to the next. I have been told to treat three weeks sometimes and four weeks others. There are many patients who only treat two weeks and others who treat longer than a month. From what I understand, it depends on the area you are treating and the degree of damage you have. Another reason the treatment times vary is that each patient reacts differently and at varying rates. You may react right away and reach the erosion phase long before your 28 days are up or you may not react until well into the second or third week. It's difficult to tell sometimes with this cream.
I haven't used Taro-Mupirocin and Cortoderm with Efudex, but it sounds like your doctor is being proactive and heading off any chance of infection and trying to lessen the side effect of itchiness and discomfort--that is definitely a good thing! Hopefully, some other members can chime in with their experiences with these products.
I am including a couple of articles that might come in handy.
This one provides tips for treating:
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/tips-for-efudex-users
It can be difficult to know exactly when you are done treating--this one explains how to tell when the cream has been effective:
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-cream-how-long
I am wishing you all the best as you begin treatment. Please keep us updated on your progress--we are here for you any time!
April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator
