I did not use the cream, but I experienced extreme fatigue from the regular chemo, and I talked to others who were taking low dose pills over long periods of time and they got fatigue, so I bet it is the chemicals in the cream.

I too have experienced fatigue from Efudex. I have finally reached a point where I feel almost human again and it has been three weeks since my last treatment. I am preparing for another biopsy and praying no more Effudex will be needed. I felt like my blood had been drained while using this cream. The other obvious side effect I had was a strong tooth ache type pain in the vaginal region and tenderness.

I, too, have experienced great fatigue and tiredness from Efudex (5-FU, fluorouracil, Carac) cream on my face. I am normally very strong and energetic and one topical application a day has drained me. I'm not sure how I can continue for the full four week treatment, but I suppose it is better than getting skin cancer.

Remember that Efudex works because it interferes with DNA synthesis, and not just in the cancerous or pre-cancerous cells, but in ALL cells, including and especially blood cells.

I suggest you order a copy of "Nutritional Strategies for Cancer Patients" by Dr. Russell Blaylock, MD, neurosurgeon (retired), for excellent advice. This book can benefit everyone not just those dealing with cancer issues. (He has two other great nutrition books also.) I have read nutrition books for 40 years and his are, in many ways, the 'best'.

Even though this is an old post it helped me as I just started this treatment with 16 more days to go and I'm so tired but many people say this isn't true so I thought I was making it up. I'm going to look up the book and take naps to get through this Thanks,

Tiredness and weakness (fatigue) during and after treatment is the most common side effect of Fluorouracil. Most people find their energy levels are back to normal from 6 months to a year after their treatment ends. Know more here http://www.internationaldrugmart.com/fluorouracil.shtml