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Bioavailability and feasibility of subcutaneous 5-fluorouracil
M M Borner1, J Kneer, C Crevoisier
1Institut für Medizinische Onkologie, Universität Bern, Switzerland.
British Journal of Cancer
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Subcutaneous (s.c.) 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) offers a well-tolerated alternative to intravenous (i.v.) infusion, demonstrating high bioavailability. This method may provide a safe and economical option for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Continuous intravenous (i.v.) 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) infusion shows superior efficacy but incurs higher costs and risks like thromboembolism and infection.
- Subcutaneous (s.c.) administration presents a potential alternative to overcome i.v. infusion limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and bioavailability of subcutaneous 5-FU.
- To evaluate the local tolerance of prolonged s.c. 5-FU administration.
Main Methods:
- Eight advanced cancer patients received 250 mg 5-FU via 90-min i.v. or s.c. infusion.
- Three patients underwent 24-h continuous s.c. infusion of 930-1,000 mg m-2 5-FU.
- Plasma concentration-time curves and local tolerance were monitored.
Main Results:
- Mean s.c. 5-FU bioavailability was 0.89 ± 0.23, with plasma levels comparable to i.v. infusion.
- No local side effects were observed during short-term s.c. infusion.
- One patient experienced skin pigmentation at the s.c. site, a reaction also seen with i.v. infusion.
Conclusions:
- Subcutaneous 5-FU demonstrates high bioavailability and good local tolerance at studied doses.
- Prolonged s.c. 5-FU infusion warrants further investigation as a safe and economical alternative to i.v. administration.