cyclophosphamide + fluorouracil

This combination appears in several chemotherapy regimens used primarily for breast cancer treatment. The search results show that cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil are frequently used together, often with a third drug such as methotrexate (forming CMF), doxorubicin/Adriamycin (forming CAF/FAC), or epirubicin (forming FEC/CEF)[1][2][3][4]. ## Combination Details Cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil work together as a chemotherapy combination, with each drug attacking cancer cells through different mechanisms. Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent that stops cancer cells from reproducing, while fluorouracil (also known as 5-FU) is an antimetabolite that stops cells from making and repairing DNA, causing them to die when they try to divide[2][3]. This combination is typically administered intravenously, though in some regimens cyclophosphamide may be given orally as a daily pill[2]. The specific dosing schedule varies depending on the complete regimen being used and whether additional drugs are included. ## Clinical Use The cyclophosphamide + fluorouracil combination is primarily used in breast cancer treatment, particularly for localized breast cancers with a relatively high risk of recurrence. It has shown effectiveness for both node-negative disease (which hasn't traveled to lymph nodes) and node-positive disease (which has traveled to lymph nodes)[2]. Common side effects of regimens containing cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, hair loss, low blood counts, fatigue, menopausal symptoms, and increased risk of infection[3]. Rare but serious side effects may include increased risk of leukemia and heart problems. Patients receiving this combination should avoid pregnancy during treatment and should inform their healthcare providers about all medications they're taking, including vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines[2][3].

Other names

cyclophosphamide + 5-FU