Prescription
Prescription RequiredCompoundedCalcipotriene | Fluorouracil Cream
Calcipotriene | Fluorouracil Cream combines a vitamin D-like medicine (calcipotriene) with a cancer-fighting medicine (fluorouracil). Together they target rough, sun-damaged spots on the skin called actinic keratoses. Calcipotriene helps your immune system recognize damaged cells, while fluorouracil destroys those cells so new, healthy skin can grow. This prescription cream is applied to affected skin as directed by your healthcare provider.
Requires a valid prescription from your provider. Not sure if it's right for you? Ask a pharmacist.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Compounded products are not FDA-approved and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice — always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
Clinical information
Medication information for patients and providers.
Use as directed by your healthcare provider. Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area and wash your hands after use unless your hands are part of the treated area. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at the same time.
Fluorouracil enters damaged skin cells and blocks an enzyme needed to make DNA. This causes those abnormal cells to die over several days. Calcipotriene, a vitamin D analog, boosts the local immune response and helps your body recognize and clear the damaged cells faster. You may feel redness and scaling in 2-3 days, showing the medicine is working. Most people see smoother skin after 4-8 weeks. The treated area continues to improve for a few weeks after therapy ends.
Do not use if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding; fluorouracil may harm an unborn baby. Do not use if you are allergic to calcipotriene, fluorouracil, or any ingredient in this cream. Do not use on open wounds, infected skin, or areas recently treated with surgery or radiation. Avoid if you have dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme deficiency, as this can increase fluorouracil toxicity. Not for use in children under 18 without doctor approval.
Because this medicine stays mostly in the skin, interactions are rare, but caution is still needed. Avoid using other topical products that irritate the skin (such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids) on the same area unless your doctor says it is okay; this can increase burning and redness. Tell your provider if you take oral fluorouracil, capecitabine, or medicines that affect your immune system, as combined effects may increase side effects. Limit sun exposure and avoid tanning beds; ultraviolet light can worsen skin irritation.
Very common (more than 1 in 10 people): redness, burning, stinging, dryness, and scaling at the application site—these signs usually peak in 1-2 weeks and then improve. Common (1-10 in 100 people): swelling, itching, darkening or lightening of skin color, small sores or crusts. Uncommon (1-10 in 1,000 people): severe pain, blistering, or infection at the site. Rare but serious: allergic rash with swelling of face or throat, severe eye irritation if cream contacts eyes. Most local reactions get better within 2-4 weeks after stopping treatment. Call your doctor if pain is severe, if you see pus, or if side effects do not improve.
Store at room temperature (68-77°F, 20-25°C). Keep the tube tightly closed and protect from high heat, freezing, and direct sunlight. Do not store in a humid place like a bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired cream through a pharmacy take-back program or seal in a plastic bag mixed with coffee grounds before throwing in household trash.
Frequently asked questions.
Leave the cream on the treated area; do not wash it off until your next regular washing or shower. Washing too soon can reduce its effect.
Redness and scaling usually start within a few days, showing the medicine is working. Smoother skin often appears 4-8 weeks after you finish the course.
Yes, but protect the treated skin from direct sun with clothing, hats, or a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Sunlight can worsen irritation and slow healing.
Mild discomfort is expected, but severe pain, large blisters, or signs of infection (pus, fever) mean you should stop using the cream and call your healthcare provider right away.
Wait until the cream has fully dried before applying makeup or non-medicated moisturizers. Avoid other medicated or irritating products on the same area unless your provider approves.
No. Fluorouracil can harm an unborn baby, and it is unknown if it passes into breast milk. Do not use if you are pregnant, might become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
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