Uracil

Information About Uracil

Uses of Uracil

Uracil is commonly in combination with tegafur used to treat breast cancer, cancer, cancer of colon and rectum, cervical cancer, head and neck cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, stomach cancer, urinary bladder cancer, liver cancer, gallbladder cancer and bile duct cancer.

How Uracil Works

Uracil usually used in combination with Tegafur which is a prodrug of 5-fluorouracil. It helps to inhibit dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), the enzyme that metabolize 5-fluorouracil, thus increasing the activity of 5-fluorouracil

Side Effects of Uracil

Diarrhea, Dehydration, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Tiredness, Jaundice, Decreased appetite, Loss of hair

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Uracil Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol and Uracil simultaneously as alcohol will accentuate the side effects of Uracil such as drowsiness and headache. Please consult your doctor.

Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk

Animal studies and human studies have shown reproductive toxicities to the foetus. Thus, Uracil related drug is not advisable to be used during pregnancy.

Lactation Not Advisable

Animal studies have shown the excretion of Uracil in the milk. Thus, Uracil is advisable not to be used during breastfeeding. If the usage is necessary, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Uracil related drug may cause side effects such as tiredness, nausea and vomiting, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Caution use of Uracil related drug has to be practised in patients with kidney impairment.

Liver Use With Care

Caution use of Uracil related drug has to be practised in patients with liver impairment.