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sldavid
USA
2 Posts |
 Posted - 10/25/2011 : 10:11:47
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| The Aquaphor that I use is made by Eucerin which makes several ointments sold over the counter in the US. You might want to ask your pharmacist if this is the same product she is referring to. It does feel similar to vaseline so you can do no harm in using that first to see if you get relief from the skin irritation. |
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
Posted - 10/25/2011 : 19:10:40
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| The active ingredient of Aquaphor is petrolatum. As I understand it this is also an ingredient of Vaseline and basically seals the area so the skin can heal itself. I used a mild cortisone cream (1%) for a week and then Dermaveen moisturiser and was very happy with the result. |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 10/28/2011 : 14:08:46
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| I DID EFUDEX !! I have to put my 2 cents in - I was 47 and requested the Dermatologist prescribe Efudex. She was amazed because no one had ever volunteered to do this. I'm fare skin, blonde and male. I applied it twice per day for 30 days. In retrospect I wish I did 6 weeks. I had a great outcome. It's been over 5 years now and I have a few freckles that have popped up and some lines, but still look better than I did 5 years ago before Efudex, which in all honesty wasn't that bad to begin with. I had some flaky (what was called) basal cell on the bridge of my nose on which a previous 4 attempts to freeze failed. Since Efudex, to this day, it has not returned. Sure it was a little rough toughing out the 30 days but take your bleeping medicine and get the bleeping job done. Because I did this I might just never know the melanoma that never killed me. And actually, I had melanoma on the neck. During Efudex it lit up. A few years later a freckle persisted at this spot which the Dr's told me was nothing, but I trusted what Efudex was trying to tell me two years earlier and demanded it be biopsied. Long story short it was all the way to the deepest layers of skin. I narrowly escaped. If I had hit it with Efudex for 60 days I bet you a million bucks I would have killed it and never known the difference. Efudex is a godsend. What a gift. See it as this and be thankful we have been given such a marvelous drug. The option of not having this drug ain't so great. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 10/31/2011 : 22:18:38
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I just thought I'd pop in with an update as I just started week 2 of treatment.
There were a couple of days last week where I was nauseous. I'm not sure if thats Efudex related or maybe a flu bug doing around.
My forehead looks very angry (but for some reason, looks at its' worst in the morning and seems to calm down during the day.
The interesting thing is that I can see where my hairline used to be (so I'm thinking maybe most of the damage was done back when I still had some hair on my head) The top of my head/scalp hasn't been as bad as I expected, despite walking around with a shaved head for 20 years.
I'm on day 3 of doing the rest of my face and haven't seen any spots light up yet, but I know they're there. I see a spot or two on my ears as well.
The pain is tolerable so far... or maybe I'm just used to it. Again, it seems to be the worst in the morning when you start moving the muscles in your forehead (I should have done Botox first! LOL) . Gradually being less sore as the day goes on. I'm hanging in there!
I started a blog documenting my progress but haven't been keeping up with it, for a number of reasons. Perhaps I will complete it once I'm finished treatment.
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kidmore
Canada
0 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2011 : 16:59:22
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| I am new on this forum (67 yrs-old). My dermatologist just prescribed Efudex cream mixed with 1%hydrocortisone cream in equal parts; to apply on lesions once daily, at bedtime, for 1 month. Has any one heard of that? The doctor warned me of the unpleasant effects. Having searched the internet and seen the pictures of very raw-looking foreheads or faces, I decided, as my first experience with this medication, that I'll start by applying the cream on a few single spots at a time. I'm on my day 2. I'm a bit depressed, as I didn't realize the diagnosis for which I was prescribed this cream related to skin cancer. To contribute to my feeling down is that I've also stopped drinking coffee as I want to cut down on all foods that are stimulants chocolate, sugar, etc.. to help my skin... |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2011 : 09:49:12
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Hello and welcome Kidmore.
So your Dr. never told you about it being chemo in a tube either. This seems to be a common occurrence. Mine didn't either.
Yes it's depressing, but the good thing is you're being proactive about it. I found out I was being treated for skin cancer in the Costco parking lot after Googling this stuff he prescribed.
I have heard of the once daily application routine, but it was usually for a longer period of time.
I'm not a Dr. but if you enjoy having a cup of coffee or a bit of chocolate, and it'll make you feel better, I don't see the harm in that. Did your Doctor tell you not to eat/drink these things?
My Dr. made no mention of anything I should not be eating/drinking. I don't normally drink coffee, but I am these days.  |
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2011 : 18:42:32
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Hi Deruo and Kidmore. Neither my dermatologist or my GP in Australia and PNG mentioned this was chemo either. Must be something they are taught at med school.
I am treating a spot on an ear that has been frozen unsuccessfully twice. Seems to be going well after two weeks.
As for sugar and coffee, I'd suggest giving up sucrose/sugar and especially fructose, or limiting them, as soon as you can. Coffee however is associated with reduced skin cancer (see thread on this site). Mercola.com has lots on both topics. Good luck and thanks again Dan. |
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kidmore
Canada
0 Posts |
Posted - 11/04/2011 : 16:12:53
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| Thank you Longdrop and Deruo for your response and also all the others, I find this forum helpful. I'm getting over my coffee craving: the trouble for me with coffee is that I like it with sugar. I prepared a series of questions to ask my dermatologist, one of them being: is there a relationship with the acnea rosacea (which is what I was supposed to have before) and my current diagnosis. Is cancer an acnea rosacea gone wrong? Or do I now have two conditions: the rosacea and the cancer? I'm resisting the cancer diagnosis since the dermatologist did not pronounce the word cancer. Also, shouldn't a biopsy be done before confirming skin cancer? Anyway, I'm proceeding with the daily application on 4 spots (tonite will be day 5), so far no visible changes. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/04/2011 : 16:30:21
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It's quite possible that he's treating you for pre-cancerous spots called "actinic keratosis" or "solar keratosis". Do either of these terms sound familiar?
Either way, it took close to a week for my forehead to start getting its spots, and day 6 for my face to start showing spots, and thats with 2 applications daily.
For a while there I thought I got a bad batch of Efudex because nothing was happening. It is now! |
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kidmore
Canada
0 Posts |
Posted - 11/04/2011 : 17:17:15
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| yes, actinic keratosis is what it's said on the referral note from GP to dermatologist. |
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steellassie
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 11/04/2011 : 20:16:12
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I am so grateful to have found this forum. Like many of you, I've gone thru various treatments up to and including Mohs surgery for squamous cell lesions. I will begin efudex & retin-a 2-Xs daily for 3 weeks at the end of the month. I know sun damage played a role in getting me to this place but I also wonder whether asbestos exposure from 30 yrs ago could have also figured in. I worked for 8yrs. as a blast furnace welder and wore company issued asbestos gloves. We also used asbestos coated welding rods back then. The squamous lesions started on the top of both hands and included the webbing between my fingers and skin up to the 2nd knuckle. Over time, they progressed up my arms to the elbow area. The large, men sized gloves completely covered my skin to this point. If anyone out there has seen or heard of any skin connection to asbestos exposure I'd appreciate hearing from you. Thank you again for developing this wonderful sharing site where we can all learn and benefit from the encouragement it provides.
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steellassie
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 11/04/2011 : 20:46:29
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| Hello to all. I will be starting efudex & retin-a at the end of this month for lesions on my hands and arms. I know sun damage played a role in getting me to this point. I also have wondered whether asbestos exposure from 30 yrs ago as a welder could have also figured in. We wore company issued asbestos gloves back then and also welded with asbestos rods. The site of my squamous lesions began on both hands including the webbing between fingers and the skin up to the second knuckle. In time it progressed up to the elbow area. If anyone has info regarding asbestos and if it relates to skin cancer I'd appreciate hearing from you. Thank you for developing this wonderful site. |
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steellassie
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 11/04/2011 : 21:42:12
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| Hello to all. I will be starting efudex & retin-a at the end of this month for lesions on my hands and arms. I know sun damage played a role in getting me to this point. I also have wondered whether asbestos exposure from 30 yrs ago as a welder could have also figured in. We wore company issued asbestos gloves back then and also welded with asbestos rods. The site of my squamous lesions began on both hands including the webbing between fingers and the skin up to the second knuckle. In time it progressed up to the elbow area. If anyone has info regarding asbestos and if it relates to skin cancer I'd appreciate hearing from you. Thank you for developing this wonderful site. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/10/2011 : 15:54:05
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I'm on day 19 today.
I don't know if I can take another week of applying this stuff twice a day. My skin is raw and the pain in my forehead is unbelievable. Aquaphor helps, but you have to endure 2 hours of not having it on before you can apply it.
I finally found some Aquaphor here in Toronto (at Shoppers Drug Mart and apparently London Drugs in Canada also carries it.
My dermo told me to do 30 days on my forehead. But he also said that when I get blistering that I should quit - not necessarily wait until day 30. I've been doing Aquaphor and Tylenol but it's just not helping that much. I'm miserable and want to quit.
Getting an appointment with a dermatologist is almost impossible here. You either get one that tries to sell Botox or other treatments, or someone who is never available (like my guy) He only said he wanted to see me about 2 months after I finished treatment (Feb)
Any suggestions or hints on how to get through the next week to ten days? |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/10/2011 : 16:01:45
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Also, someone mentioned upthread about the various treatment times that we all seem to have been given, 2 weeks, 21 days, 30 days, 28 days. I looked and I never saw it addressed.
Does anyone know why the treatment times vary so much and is there a difference? |
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
Posted - 11/10/2011 : 19:51:04
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| Hi Deruo. I don't know why the doctors recommend different treatment times but mine was 21 days and I quit on day 19 in consultation with my GP. I had had several BCC cut off my head, one Bowen's off my neck and one SCC. I also had several patches of keratoses on my face. The dermatologist did show me pictures of people undergoing the treatment, including one where he said the man had gone for too long. The picture showed his face almost entirely red if that helps. The Efudex literature I have see seems to suggest that for the face 21 days at twice a day is the common prescription. Hope that helps! |
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sldavid
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 11/10/2011 : 20:29:55
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Hi Deruo,
I also think 19 days are enough. I waited until the scab had fallen off before applying the Aquaphor which was not easy but it felt sooooo good at that point to feel the healing benefits of the cream as my skin had become ultra sensitive. I just think different doctors have different ideas about the length of time to apply the Efudex. I really see no reason to continue applying the ointment if you are just putting it on top a scab as it is probably not penetrating down to the skin area. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/15/2011 : 12:41:06
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Scabs? I haven't come across any of them yet. I did shed another layer or two of skin today in the shower. Actually, when I got out of the shower the first time, my entire face was grey, where the dead skin had soaked up water. I didn't want to leave it like that so back in I went and I gently exfoliated it off.
There are a few spots that have bled during the night or day and those have formed scabs of sorts, but they usually just wash off or disappear with the next treatment.
Longdrop you've got me worried about the guy with the red face. Yes, a good portion of mine is red, but there are still plenty of blotchy spots on my cheeks and temples.
I'm on day 24 for my forehead, and day 17 for the rest of my face. Was told 30 for forehead, 21 for the rest.
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sldavid
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 11/15/2011 : 13:19:02
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| Maybe scab is not the correct terminology. I did have a hard crust form each time I used Efudex which took another 2-3 weeks to fall off after I ceased using the product. According to the insert this is normal and part of the healing process. |
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
Posted - 11/15/2011 : 18:50:59
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| Sorry deruo, didn't mean to alarm you. I think that from the material the dermatologist showed me that blotchy is good but when the whole face is red and raw you need to stop and have probably gone on too long. By the sound of it you still have couple or three more days to go. If you don't do it properly there is the awful prospect of having to do it again! Good luck |
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JennT
2 Posts |
Posted - 11/16/2011 : 21:15:16
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| I am scheduled for the Mohs procedure on my face in a couple weeks to remove SCC on my face. I have treated it twice with efudex and it has come back each time, worse than it was before. Any advice on having the Mohs procedure? |
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 11/20/2011 : 23:44:39
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TO JenT.
Actually, this is a response to everyone.
Efudex is no party. JenT, I guess that your earlier attempt with Efudex failed because you probably did it for only 21 days of less. There was a question earlier on this post about the varying durations in treatment. The varying duration I think is largely due to three reasons: 1) People can't take it and so the Dr cuts it short,2) Different treatment times for different cancer types, skin types and ages, and 3) I think many Dr's don't know what they are doing. Prior to doing Efudex I poured over all the studies on it. Minimum you need to go 28 days (face), two apply twice per day. If you are going after basil cell on the face then you must go 60 days. I know it's tough medicine but you are talking about pentance for years of damaging your skin. 60 days is nothing compared tot he 40 or mosr years of damage.
My girlfriend's Dr was going to remove basil cell from he cheek. A significant area would be cut and she would be scared. I got he a different Dr who thru my encouragement did Curac (eurafloricil - same stuff as Efudex). She applid it to the area for 60 days. It was a mess but you know what? She looks great today.
If you don't go long enough then It will come back some day. Get tough and just get it done. And don't forget your 50 block. |
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bobw
1 Posts |
Posted - 11/21/2011 : 04:33:12
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| I have a question. How much do you guys apply? I know people are going to say everyone is different etc, but there must be a general rule of thumb. Say someone was doing their whole face twice a day, how long would a 20 gram or 40 gram tube last? Or if deruo is reading this, how much are you using on your scalp etc. I'm currently in Mexico, where Efudix is about $35-$40 for a 20 gram tube (and yes, it's completely legit Valeant Pharmaceuticals) and was trying to figure out how much I would need for my scalp and face for 30 days. Based on everyone's experience, and possibly applying it on the heavy side if anything...how much do you go through? How long would a 20 gram tube last? |
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FlaLadyB
USA
12 Posts |
Posted - 11/21/2011 : 08:31:38
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If you are going to have Mohs surgery on your face ( I have had both sides of my nose done and both 4 layers deep ) make SURE you have a Dr who knows what he is doing. Mine were done so well you can't even tell. Others I have seen are not do good. I remember being told the biopsy was positive (after 2 years of spraying and having a dumb dermatologist)then going to 4 plastic surgeons who all told me they were going to cut my face and do what is called a flap and pull skin over - well, that would leave a perm scar and all I did was cry and say there HAD to be another way. Well, I found a Dr who did do what everyone else did and I stayed with him over 20 years JUST for skin cancers. Unfortuantely he no longer is in practice and I am trying out a new guy, after checking his credentials.
I now have a presp for efudex - does ANYONE know where you can find it cheaper than $300 a tube in the US?
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/21/2011 : 11:26:58
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bobw - My first 40g tube lasted me about 3 weeks. I'm putting it on my scalp, forehead, rest of face, and a small spot on my shoulder, twice a day.
I think thats quite a bit of skin! I'm not sure if we're allowed to direct to other websites here but here goes: efudexed.blogspot.com . It's a blog I started, like others, in hopes of helping patients get an idea of what to expect. You can see my mug in all its' glory there. If the link gets removed, PM me and I'll send it to you that way.
It takes a couple of days to get the hang of it, the consistency in my first tube was much thicker than my second (which has a longer expiration date). I'm doing it to give everything a very thin layer. I didn't think my first tube was going to last until day 15 but I managed to squeeze enough out until day 21 or so.
My second tube expiration date is January 2013 and the consistency of the product is almost like a lotion. Goes on very easily.
Those prices in Mexico, although cheaper than the US, seem more expensive than Canada. My 40g tube at Costco here in Canada was just under 40.00 Canadian. There are a number of online pharmacies where you can buy "Canadian" drugs cheaper, and have them delivered to you in the US. You need a prescription but certainly cheaper than buying through US based pharmacies. For example, I found 1 online site where a 40g tube of Efudex was $79.00.
Charging $300.00 a tube for this stuff is criminal. |
Edited by - deruo on 11/21/2011 12:50:28 |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/21/2011 : 11:31:44
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| bobw - I should add that I've been shaving most days, or every second day, including my head. Usage increases somewhat dramatically if there's less smooth skin to work with. |
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bobw
1 Posts |
Posted - 11/21/2011 : 16:37:51
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| That blog is awesome...thanks. I can't believe you are able to shave with a razor. I usually do, but during this I will be buying an electric (I also shave my head). So when you apply, you rub it in or just cover the surface and let it absorb on it's own? |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 11/21/2011 : 17:25:30
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I use a triple bladed razor (not every day during this though) because on top of it all, I'm moving and can't find the electric ;-)
I read somewhere... I can't remember where... that shaving cream works well as a cleanser in a pinch.
I tried Noxema, which usually works extremely well for shaving, but found it stings as well.
Granted, its still not pleasant but as someone has already offered me money on the street, thinking I was homeless/down on my luck, I'd like to look as presentable as possible! LOL.
I rub the surface with Efudex, much like I would with sunscreen, (using much, much less though) and rub it in so that I can't see any white streak marks. I started using latex gloves but found them to be a hindrance. I use my fingers and make sure to wash them thoroughly afterwards. |
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aguisin
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 12/01/2011 : 09:42:17
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| I am on day 6 following 17 days of Efudex on my face. I had no noticeable lesions or BCC, Like all, I had a tough experience with the pain and ugliness. My biggest concern now is whether the redness will ever clear up. I know that may seem irrational, but you know..... My whole face is still about as red as ever although the pain is virtually gone. I use OTC steroid cream followed by Aquaphor. Does anyone know how long it might take for the redness to clear up? |
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sldavid
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 12/01/2011 : 10:04:14
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| Unfortunately, it takes a long time. I still have a pink area on my face from a treatment I ended in October. The pink has faded quite a bit and I expect in another month it will be undetectable. I use a liquid concealor on the area that blends to my skin tone and am happy with the results. |
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William Diehl
USA
1 Posts |
Posted - 12/01/2011 : 18:42:32
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quote:
Originally posted by Longdrop
Hi again FlatladyB. I can't let your post go by! Efudex at $350 a tube? In Australia it cost me about $15 with a doctor's prescription. The active ingredient of Efudex (Fluorouracil) is one of the oldest chemotherapy drugs and was patented in the 50's so any patents have long expired surely. The US health system really needs a shake up if Efudex at $350 is an outcome!
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William Diehl
USA
1 Posts |
Posted - 12/01/2011 : 18:47:38
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quote:
Originally posted by Longdrop
Hi again FlatladyB. I can't let your post go by! Efudex at $350 a tube? In Australia it cost me about $15 with a doctor's prescription. The active ingredient of Efudex (Fluorouracil) is one of the oldest chemotherapy drugs and was patented in the 50's so any patents have long expired surely. The US health system really needs a shake up if Efudex at $350 is an outcome!
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William Diehl
USA
1 Posts |
Posted - 12/01/2011 : 18:55:54
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quote:
Originally posted by FlaLadyB
I have a question about the cost of efudex. Has anyone found a reputable less expensive place to order it? The price here is $350 a tube with no insurance. The generic is still $250. My Dr. says some of his patients found it for $150. I will have to go hunting once I decide to do it. Not ready yet and its too hot in Fla.
Also, do you use one tube, or more?
I bought a tube of Efudex in Tiajuana, Mex. for $15 |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 12/04/2011 : 18:07:23
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| If you have a prescription then go on the internet and order it from Canada. We do that here in the US and save a ton, but unfortunately the gov has really tightened down on that; The big pharmaceuticals, I guess, weren't raping us enough already. I would tell you to order it from India but doing that is a serious crap shoot that's not worth the gamble. - Oh, and as I said in all my earlier posts; go a full 30 days minimum. Everyone here is acting like spoiled babies - wah wah, and give up after 3 or fewer weeks. You apply a really thin coat, twice a day for 30 days. You can rinse the face immediately before applying but leave it alone after application. Don't put any bandages, creams, petroleum jelly or makeup over it. And after, don't put anything on it like these idiots here are talking about. Leave it the H alone. These guys are complaining about being pink a month after they fininsh applying it. I just left mine alone and was >75% ok by day 30. One thing I have noticed is someone in my office did it for only 20 days and he now has kind of lumpy sking 30 days later. You see, he didn't go the distance (at least 30 days) and he has left partially damaged skin cells beneath the surface. He wah wah wah the whole time he was doing it. He stopped too early and now is getting what he deserves, even though I told him before he started to go 30 at least and go the distance. What a bunch of cry babies. Suck it up! We're talking 30 days that might just save your life and save you from a horrible death. Plus it's the greatest skin rejuvination ever. |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 12/04/2011 : 18:13:15
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| If you have a prescription then go on the internet and order it from Canada. We do that here in the US and save a ton, but unfortunately the gov has really tightened down on that; The big pharmaceuticals, I guess, weren't raping us enough already. I would tell you to order it from India but doing that is a serious crap shoot that's not worth the gamble. - Oh, and as I said in all my earlier posts; go a full 30 days minimum. Everyone here is acting like spoiled babies - wah wah, and give up after 3 or fewer weeks. You apply a really thin coat, twice a day for 30 days. You can rinse the face immediately before applying but leave it alone after application. Don't put any bandages, creams, petroleum jelly or makeup over it. And after, don't put anything on it like these idiots here are talking about. Leave it the H alone. These guys are complaining about being pink a month after they fininsh applying it. I just left mine alone and was >75% ok by day 30. One thing I have noticed is someone in my office did it for only 20 days and he now has kind of lumpy sking 30 days later. You see, he didn't go the distance (at least 30 days) and he has left partially damaged skin cells beneath the surface. He wah wah wah the whole time he was doing it. He stopped too early and now is getting what he deserves, even though I told him before he started to go 30 at least and go the distance. What a bunch of cry babies. Suck it up! We're talking 30 days that might just save your life and save you from a horrible death. Plus it's the greatest skin rejuvination ever. |
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BigD
Australia
8 Posts |
Posted - 12/05/2011 : 20:34:09
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| I have at times used efudex for less than 14 days at the advice of the doctor, both times it has left me with red dots (damaged looking skin) as though the job hadn't been completed. Has anyone had this and then gone back and re-treated for a longer period and had the red dots disappear? |
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gebgeroboys
Philippines
2 Posts |
Posted - 12/14/2011 : 06:50:13
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You have to use it for at least 3 weeks. It takes about 2 months for all the red to go away.quote:
Originally posted by BigD
I have at times used efudex for less than 14 days at the advice of the doctor, both times it has left me with red dots (damaged looking skin) as though the job hadn't been completed. Has anyone had this and then gone back and re-treated for a longer period and had the red dots disappear?
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mickapoo
4 Posts |
Posted - 12/28/2011 : 07:37:15
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This link is a lengthy photo journal of a female's journey through the 4 week Efudex treatment:
www.hybriddesign.net/efudex
Everyone is different. I didn't really look any different afterwards, but I knew that it zapped all the precancerous lesions which is all that was important to me. I did have some scarring though, my fault, it was from where I picked at a scab. |
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cmurf
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 01/19/2012 : 17:29:37
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Hello Cheeno, I hope you still view this thread.
I was just prescribed Efudex today (Jan 19) by my Derm. He recommended a similar treatment plan to the one your physician had prescribed you (mine is 2 days/week for a total of 9 weeks).
I am curious if your treatment has had sustained successful results of elimnating the AK's. If seems most people are taking this daily for shorter periods (2 - 6 weeks).
I am hopeful that the longer term/more infrequent application has the same positive results without the negative side-effects.
Thanks in advance for your, and anyone else's, experience following a similar treatment plan to the one I outlined.
quote:
Originally posted by Cheeno
I am currently using Efudex and am very happy with the results BUT my doctor has a different approach. I am using it twice a day but for only two days a week and will continue for several weeks. I have finished a 7 week session, had a 2 week break to see how it's gone and am now back on another 7 - 8 week session. I certainly have a reaction and the areas become red but have had no major, severe reaction so have been able to continue going out etc. Perhaps my initial problem wasn't as severe as others but I have been having various other treatments for several years with good results but the problem areas kept returning after a few years.My doctor has said he doesn't need to subject me to the intense severe treatment - he believes he'll get the same results by treating over a longer period. He is highly respected in his field. Like all forum posts this is my personal experience that is working for me and may not be appropriate for others but I have posted this to show that there is another way to use this treatment. I am very happy with the results but who knows what will be happening next year!
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
Posted - 01/19/2012 : 19:00:41
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| Just in case anyone is interested in my post of 3 November I treated a spot on my ear that had been frozen twice at some expense but kept coming back. Twice a day for three weeks and now all gone. Well done Efudex |
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Jamesone
Australia
0 Posts |
Posted - 01/25/2012 : 04:21:53
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My first experience with efudix was about eight years ago. It was suggested to me by a dermatologist to heal up irritating dry skin patches along my hair line. It was suggested that I spread it liberally along the affected area once a day. Did this, the pain was terrible so after eight days I gave it away. Subsequently the redness went and with it the irritating dry skin. Just recently the same symptoms turned up again. My Gp suggested a couple of cream treatments which were not sucsessful. Then went to a skin clinic, it was suggested that I give the efudix another go. I have now been on it for 8 days and will now stop. One major difference this time is that I am only tackling a couple of spots at a time twice a day. I only use a small amount on a cotton bud. Yes is is still painful but not nearly as bad as the first time I used it.
I am a 78 year old male in remmission from Lymphoma, so quite honestly I am not overly fussed about the end result using efudix. I would suggest that in this day and age there is no need to suffer the pain that efudix can bring on. (ask your Doc for a strong pain killer, I use oxynorm) There are many different skin types among us. Be sure that you get the right advice according to you skin type. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 01/26/2012 : 01:08:39
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Hawksworth, is your Doctor easy to see? I'd call or see him to see if he can tell you if you are having an allergic reaction or not. Given that it's just your face that is swollen, I suspect its not. My ears had very little reaction. Just one spot on one of them. My chin swelled up and was VERY painful. I also had oozing, but it took two weeks for that to happen to me. Everyone is a little different. Believe me, I know how much it hurts - it's still fresh in my mind and you wonder how you'll make it another day - let alone two weeks.
Remember that for each application you miss, the Docs generally want to see another DAY as "make-up".
Have you tried applying Aquaphor to "loosen" up the tightness? It really helps!
I shaved all through my treatment. You may prefer an electric shaver. I used a triple blade disposable. I wouldn't have used anything less. I made sure my beard was VERY wet and used a gel. Noxema, which I usually use, was out of the question as it stung too much. It took a while and my chin was very slow going as it was inflamed and sore. But it had the added benefit of sloughing off dead skin as well. My beard is quite thick and it would have been difficult to get the cream down to the skin in a few days, and I would have had to use a LOT more of it.
Pics, in case you're interested at: efudexed.blogspot.com
- Edited to answer questions about shaving. |
Edited by - deruo on 01/26/2012 01:20:44 |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 01/26/2012 : 16:51:01
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Hi Ken and thank you very much for your reply. I found following the experiences of others with photos to be very helpful when I went through it, thus the reason for my blog.
I am a huge advocate of Aquaphor for itching and tightness/pain relief. Well, you still get the itching, but it's not as bad. A moist itching, if you will. It really helps so I wouldn't wait before using it. Just make sure you wait several hours after the Efudex application before using it. If you're like me, you'll wonder why you waited so long to use it! ;-) And if you have access to a Dr and or Staff, don't be afraid to use them! Thats what they're there for. I got a referral to a new dermo and that appointment isn't until May! The Canadian "free" health care system at work.
Hang in there. We know it's very tough, but its got to be done and much better than doing nothing. We're here if you need us!
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
Posted - 01/26/2012 : 19:15:43
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| Keep at it Ken, sounds like you have a bad case but remember the alternative is likely to have been worse (eg regular ineffective freezes and lots of expensive surgery). I found shaving in the shower was tolerable with a triple blade and before I put the Efudex on but I have a light beard. In some of my research I noted that the treatment is exacerbated by sun exposure but that there is some evidence to suggest that sun exposure also makes Efudex more effective. I kept out of the sun though! |
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sldavid
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 01/26/2012 : 20:04:48
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A few weeks ago I went to my dermatologist and he gave me a clean bill of health on my face which is the only area I have used Efudex.
It has taken a long time (a few years applying it to several different areas) but so worth the end result. I don't expect to ever have the need to re-order the product again. |
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Cheeno
Australia
2 Posts |
Posted - 01/26/2012 : 23:11:24
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quote:
Originally posted by cmurf
Hello Cheeno, I hope you still view this thread.
I was just prescribed Efudex today (Jan 19) by my Derm. He recommended a similar treatment plan to the one your physician had prescribed you (mine is 2 days/week for a total of 9 weeks).
I am curious if your treatment has had sustained successful results of elimnating the AK's. If seems most people are taking this daily for shorter periods (2 - 6 weeks).
I am hopeful that the longer term/more infrequent application has the same positive results without the negative side-effects.
Thanks in advance for your, and anyone else's, experience following a similar treatment plan to the one I outlined.
quote:
Originally posted by Cheeno
I am currently using Efudex and am very happy with the results BUT my doctor has a different approach. I am using it twice a day but for only two days a week and will continue for several weeks. I have finished a 7 week session, had a 2 week break to see how it's gone and am now back on another 7 - 8 week session. I certainly have a reaction and the areas become red but have had no major, severe reaction so have been able to continue going out etc. Perhaps my initial problem wasn't as severe as others but I have been having various other treatments for several years with good results but the problem areas kept returning after a few years.My doctor has said he doesn't need to subject me to the intense severe treatment - he believes he'll get the same results by treating over a longer period. He is highly respected in his field. Like all forum posts this is my personal experience that is working for me and may not be appropriate for others but I have posted this to show that there is another way to use this treatment. I am very happy with the results but who knows what will be happening next year!
Just noticed your question. I have been back to my doctor and I am to repeat the procedure for another 8 weeks - twice a day, two days a week - to a couple of areas. I'm happy with most of the results but there are a couple of patches that need more treatment. When he looked at my face he was very happy with what he could see. Because I am going to Greece for 2 months in May and June I will not start the treatment until after that - in my Winter months. He is happy to leave it til then. I have no problems repeating - certainly did not find it too uncomfortable or unattractive |
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Cheeno
Australia
2 Posts |
Posted - 01/26/2012 : 23:44:14
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Just noticed your question. I completed my second treatment of twice a day, two days a week for approximately 8 - 9 weeks and am pretty happy with the results. My doctor is very happy! I do need to repeat the treatment on the bridge of my nose - scaly area that hasnt cleared and another patch that is a new area - but will wait until my Winter time as I find I became very sensitive to sun and heat. I certainly did not have any negative side affects but at times wonder whether it would be better to just get it over and done with in a 3 week session - not sure on that though as the descriptions here from others sound pretty awful.Good luck. I'll be interested inhearing how you go
quote:
Originally posted by cmurf
Hello Cheeno, I hope you still view this thread.
I was just prescribed Efudex today (Jan 19) by my Derm. He recommended a similar treatment plan to the one your physician had prescribed you (mine is 2 days/week for a total of 9 weeks).
I am curious if your treatment has had sustained successful results of elimnating the AK's. If seems most people are taking this daily for shorter periods (2 - 6 weeks).
I am hopeful that the longer term/more infrequent application has the same positive results without the negative side-effects.
Thanks in advance for your, and anyone else's, experience following a similar treatment plan to the one I outlined.
quote:
Originally posted by Cheeno
I am currently using Efudex and am very happy with the results BUT my doctor has a different approach. I am using it twice a day but for only two days a week and will continue for several weeks. I have finished a 7 week session, had a 2 week break to see how it's gone and am now back on another 7 - 8 week session. I certainly have a reaction and the areas become red but have had no major, severe reaction so have been able to continue going out etc. Perhaps my initial problem wasn't as severe as others but I have been having various other treatments for several years with good results but the problem areas kept returning after a few years.My doctor has said he doesn't need to subject me to the intense severe treatment - he believes he'll get the same results by treating over a longer period. He is highly respected in his field. Like all forum posts this is my personal experience that is working for me and may not be appropriate for others but I have posted this to show that there is another way to use this treatment. I am very happy with the results but who knows what will be happening next year!
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Longdrop
Papua New Guinea
17 Posts |
Posted - 01/27/2012 : 01:08:58
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| Hi Hawksworth. Glad to hear the swelling is subsiding. The best bit is that after a month or so from stopping Efudex you'll look ten years younger as your wrinkles will be hugely reduced (although mine are slowly returning!) Cheers |
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3coolcats
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2012 : 00:42:09
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| So glad to have found this site. I was feeling very alone until now. I'm 43, white, blonde hair, fair skin. Went to the doc about a spot on my nose that kept bleeding. She very casually prescribed Efudex. She said she has used it herself and she was much fairer than me. I'm now on Day 15 and I'm pretty scary looking. I'm using the 5% and told to use it once a day for 2-4 weeks. The doc didn't say when to stop. I figure I'll go as long as I can stand it by what you are all saying on here. My doc didn't even suggest a follow up visit. I am doing my whole face even though my nose was the issue. Interesting enough, my nose isn't all that red/scabby. It's my chin and cheek bone area that is terrible. And, my chin area is my hardest hit wrinkle area so I'm wondering if it's a coincidence that that is the part that Efudex is hitting the hardest. I wore sunscreen my whole life, but I guess I didn't do a great job covering up or something. It's pretty sore especially to eat b/c of the cracking around my mouth. While I don't like the pain, the isolation is the hardest for me. I won't go out looking like this, but I'm so lonely. Glad my husband and kids are great, but I miss being able to go out and about. My doc never said I had any cancers of any kind so I think I voluntarily put myself into this position. I'm hoping for a face cancerous free in the future and I'm hoping for fewer wrinkles. I appreciate everyone's comments b/c this is a big, scary deal, in my opinion. |
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3coolcats
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2012 : 00:45:48
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| I'm 43, white, blonde hair, fair skin. Went to the doc about a spot on my nose that kept bleeding. She very casually prescribed Efudex. I'm now on Day 15 and I'm pretty scary looking. I'm using the 5% and told to use it once a day for 2-4 weeks. The doc didn't say when to stop. My doc didn't even suggest a follow up visit. I am doing my whole face even though my nose was the issue. Interesting enough, my nose isn't all that red/scabby. It's my chin and cheek bone area that is terrible. And, my chin area is my hardest hit wrinkle area so I'm wondering if it's a coincidence that that is the part that Efudex is hitting the hardest. It's pretty sore especially to eat b/c of the cracking around my mouth. While I don't like the pain, the isolation is the hardest for me. I won't go out looking like this, but I'm so lonely. Glad my husband and kids are great, but I miss being able to go out and about. My doc never said I had any cancers of any kind so I think I voluntarily put myself into this position. |
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Jamesone
Australia
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2012 : 16:20:09
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Hi 3coolcats, seems you are putting yourself through hell. It seems that those of us with fair complexions have trouble with using efudex. My own experience was that when I got to the same situation as you describe I stopped using efudex until my face looked normal again. About 6 months later I started again but only in one small spot at a time applying efudex once a day every second day for two weeks . Then I would apply to another small area for the same period.
Hope this is of some help. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 10:41:13
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Hello 3coolcats, sorry for the late reply... your situation sounds much like mine. Another fair-skinned person here.
My chin was the worst area on my face and I didn't think it would be affected at all. The tops of my ears, which I figured would be horrific, had no reaction aside from a very small spot on one. I've rarely sported a moustache during my lifetime, but the outline of where it would be was virtually unaffected, but my chin and jawline?... ouch! Have you tried putting Aquaphor on the cracked skin around the corners of your mouth? It really makes a world of difference in pain levels when you're trying to eat.
I thought I'd add an update as I had my first followup yesterday since I did my treatment last fall. The Dr. said I hit "a home run" as he can't see any spots that need further attention at this time, so it would appear that all the pain, sleepless nights and isolation are worth it. I know its hard to think this way when you're going through it!
I now follow up with him in 4 months.
I also offered the intern that saw me first yesterday the following: "if you ever prescribe this stuff to a patient, PLEASE offer them something stronger than Tylenol, and prescribe them something to help them sleep. Until you go through it yourself, you can't imagine the discomfort" I showed him some photos and all he said was "wow".
Wow indeed. |
Edited by - deruo on 03/07/2012 10:46:10 |
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3coolcats
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 13:03:21
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Sorry for the double post before. The site was giving me trouble and I though it was b/c I was over the text limit.
I've now made it to 3 weeks. Aiming to complete the entire 4 weeks. Unless you are not bothered by people's stares, I don't now how anyone can go out in public looking like this. I dropped my daughter off at the post office to do an errand for me and just sitting in the car brought me stares. Also, I had a friend who told me that I was over-reacting about my face and told me it was probably not as bad as I think. So, I sent her a picture. Her reply was, "OMG". Nice, huh?
I'm really hoping that once I stop this medicine next Wednesday, that there will be a remarkable recovery. My husband sent me flowers so that was really sweet. This is definitely not an easy road. It hasn't interfered with my sleeping too much (and I'm a light sleeper), but it has affected it somewhat. I wake up b/c my face is either burning or laying on the scabbing just hurts, but I change position and it seems to help.
It's very hard not to pick at the scabs. I picked a tiny piece off b/c I could see it and it was driving me crazy. I'm sorry I did b/c it stings now.
Everytime I see my teenage neighbor lying in the sunshine wanting to tan, I want to run over to her and show her my zombie face. She might not lay there anymore. She's more fair than I am.
Deruo - Regarding your moustache, I think it's interesting that the hair protected your skin so well too. I have worn my forehead covered by hair my whole life and it doesn't have one speck of red! Hair helps! LOL And, I do agree on the Aquaphor. It's provides instant relief.
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 13:21:32
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3coolcats, sorry I wasn't clear. I never had that much hair covering the moustache area because I never really liked them. That area was clear. But my scalp, which I figured would be really bad as I haven't had hair there for years either was also clear.
Re your neighbor. Go ahead and do it. I doubt it would make much of an impact. A friend of mine who is blond and fair saw first hand what I went through, and even with that and all the lecturing I've been doing on sunscreens and THAT racket, she still sits out in the sun baking herself with minimal protection. You can lead a horse to water.... |
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tmilliner
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 16:31:26
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quote:
Originally posted by JennT
I am scheduled for the Mohs procedure on my face in a couple weeks to remove SCC on my face. I have treated it twice with efudex and it has come back each time, worse than it was before. Any advice on having the Mohs procedure?
I suggest having a plastic surgeon lined up to perform any corrective surgery needed. I had mohs performed by dermatologist in the morning. When I returned to the plastic surgeon that afternoon, I was shocked to see a crater on my cheekbone area the size of a quarter. I had no idea the derm would have to take so much. The plastic surgeon filled in with surrounding tissue. The incision was cut to blend into my laugh lines so not to have that "nicked" out look. He did a wonderful job. It's been 11 years ago and you can barely see any scar even without makeup. Good luck to you! |
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tmilliner
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 17:16:06
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| Hi. I'm into my 11th day using Efudex and seeing more spots appear every day. I'm taking pictures and documenting my process daily so I can see results. PLEASE - can anyone tell me about experience with severe red skin around the mouth. I feel like I've burned a permanent fu manchu around my mouth (not attractive since I'm a female). I have quit putting the Efudex in this area, but it is so sore and cracking. I hope I haven't permanently done damage. Thanks for any info. |
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tmilliner
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 17:18:19
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| Hi. I'm into my 11th day using Efudex and seeing more spots appear every day. I'm taking pictures and documenting my process daily so I can see results. PLEASE - can anyone tell me about experience with severe red skin around the mouth. I feel like I've burned a permanent fu manchu around my mouth (not attractive since I'm a female). I have quit putting the Efudex in this area, but it is so sore and cracking. I hope I haven't permanently done damage. Thanks for any info. |
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tmilliner
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 17:21:19
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| PLEASE - can anyone tell me about experience with severe red skin around the mouth. I feel like I've burned a permanent fu manchu around my mouth (not attractive since I'm a female). I have quit putting the Efudex in this area, but it is so sore and cracking. I hope I haven't permanently done damage. Thanks for any info. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2012 : 17:34:16
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| tmilliner, that is, unfortunately, normal. Please check with your Doctor because the severe red skin is evidence that the efudex is "killing" off bad cells. I would not stop treatment without a Doctors okay. If you skip a day, you'll probably have to add it on at the end. It's not particularly attractive on either sex, but if its red, it means theres a need for the cream to be put there. If you haven't already, please look into getting some Aquaphor (by Eucerin). It's greasy, but it really helps with the pain of cracked skin and loosens things up. |
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3coolcats
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/08/2012 : 09:14:45
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tmilliner - I'm on Day 21. That happened to me too. In fact, that is the hardest hit area on my face. Whether male or female, it's not particularly attractive. Definitely use the Aquaphor because it allows you to move your mouth without so much cracking.
Right now I'm battling a spot that got too close to my eye. I have to be more careful about not touching my face after I've applied the cream. Seems to me that everything itches more after the cream has been on for about an hour and I start scratching and touching my face. I don't want to start this process close to my eye.
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3coolcats
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/08/2012 : 11:10:24
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| Does anyone know how long the skin is photo sensitive after cream application course ends? A week? I mean, I WILL wear my sunscreen, but wondering when it's safe to go out into daylight? Thanks! |
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tmilliner
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/09/2012 : 11:41:33
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Thanks. I'll try the Aquaphor. I've tried vaseline and CeraVe and still having a hard time talking and eating because the skin keeps hardening again.
quote:
Originally posted by 3coolcats
tmilliner - I'm on Day 21. That happened to me too. In fact, that is the hardest hit area on my face. Whether male or female, it's not particularly attractive. Definitely use the Aquaphor because it allows you to move your mouth without so much cracking.
Right now I'm battling a spot that got too close to my eye. I have to be more careful about not touching my face after I've applied the cream. Seems to me that everything itches more after the cream has been on for about an hour and I start scratching and touching my face. I don't want to start this process close to my eye.
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gebgeroboys
Philippines
2 Posts |
Posted - 03/13/2012 : 03:18:52
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quote:
Originally posted by deruo
I'm on day 19 today.
I don't know if I can take another week of applying this stuff twice a day. My skin is raw and the pain in my forehead is unbelievable. Aquaphor helps, but you have to endure 2 hours of not having it on before you can apply it.
I finally found some Aquaphor here in Toronto (at Shoppers Drug Mart and apparently London Drugs in Canada also carries it.
My dermo told me to do 30 days on my forehead. But he also said that when I get blistering that I should quit - not necessarily wait until day 30. I've been doing Aquaphor and Tylenol but it's just not helping that much. I'm miserable and want to quit.
Getting an appointment with a dermatologist is almost impossible here. You either get one that tries to sell Botox or other treatments, or someone who is never available (like my guy) He only said he wanted to see me about 2 months after I finished treatment (Feb)
Any suggestions or hints on how to get through the next week to ten days?
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tmilliner
USA
0 Posts |
Posted - 03/13/2012 : 11:18:06
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The Aquaphor has helped a great deal. The doctor's office said I should try CeraVe, but I found it to not relieve the pain or tightness and the itching became unbearable. I had to wash it off immediately. I'm on my 3rd day of healing after two weeks of treatment. The worst patches of dried skin have sloughed off in the shower. Just thin layers of dried skin are still peeling and flaking. I have some itching, but not too bad.
I really feel for you and others having to go beyond two weeks. I got the cream too close to my eyes and although I've never had botox, I felt the soreness and pain and they became so stiff.
Take care. I will be watching for your updates.quote:
Originally posted by 3coolcats
tmilliner - I'm on Day 21. That happened to me too. In fact, that is the hardest hit area on my face. Whether male or female, it's not particularly attractive. Definitely use the Aquaphor because it allows you to move your mouth without so much cracking.
Right now I'm battling a spot that got too close to my eye. I have to be more careful about not touching my face after I've applied the cream. Seems to me that everything itches more after the cream has been on for about an hour and I start scratching and touching my face. I don't want to start this process close to my eye.
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blsnbelles
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 05/01/2012 : 20:55:26
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Hi,
6 year melanoma survivor. Dr prescribed Fluorouracil for 2x's a day for 2 wks on my face. Same story everytime I went to the Dermo constant freezing off "bad" areas it was just getting to be too much and not always getting the whole area. So my new Dr said to do this. I'm on day 15, my first day w/o the cream. So far either I have a high tolerance for pain or I'm a very mild case but I haven't experienced real pain or sleepless nights. I'm uncomfortable and it's a pain in the rear but that is about it.
What I have felt is, since the first application, a tingle then I gradually started to feel a sunburn type pain that today is feeling it's worst and starting to burn like a bad sunburn. I also started to feel a mild itch, which sometimes feels like a hair on my face and sometimes like ants crawling under my skin. I never touched my face with the cream on and used a soft dry washcloth to tap my face and stop the itch. For me it isn't a scratch itch but touching it seems to stop it.
The first week my face pretty much stayed the same but you can't wear make up so it's strange walking around plain. I did get a sore on my right eyebrow that we knew was a bad area because that is where I didn't want a "white spot" on my eyebrow. Started to get a few little other sores but not many. The sores seem to be under my skin. And my face is puffy/swollen but not much.
The second week I was showing more signs of redness, sores, tiny under the skin red sores. By days 12-14 I was showing more hot areas manly at the sides of my nostrils, between my eyes and chin. My checks seem to be OK at the moment.
I went out in public today wearing a hat because life makes me.I'm amazed at how many people out there know about this treatment and understand it. I feel proud that I can at 55 get rid of the damage I did as a kid in the 60's and 70's and seeing how dark a tan I could get... the darker the better. Baby Oil, iodine, Hershey's Cocoa Butter, Coppertone Tanning Lotion, and more. If you can take care of the problem, you should. I haven't heard one bad remark from anything I've read and I've read just about everything I could Google. Precautionary, no matter how your treatment goes, is always better than the end result. Why not fix something we knew nothing about years ago. I'm so glad I am. I'll let you know how it goes in the days to come! Kick Cancer One Cell at a Time!!! If you can see the pic (tried to load) this was after the last application on my 14th day.
Great forum for info ~ Thanks
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noni
France
2 Posts |
Posted - 05/13/2012 : 03:51:49
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Hello there. New to the forum. I did Efudex three years ago and hated it. But of course survived it and though the results were so much better than liq nitrogen. Partial face and chest. Became a supporter of this treatment encouraging others to go for it. The results are always worth the discomfort, social and physical.
Just finished another 21 days on my lower lip. Four days later I am having problems with scabs. The scabs break and bleed so easily with eating, teeth cleaning, even talking! etc etc. Plus, I always have been a picker, a toucher - hate loose skin and scabs on my lips. So, this time I was looking to see if there was anything I could buy in my area of the world (France) to put on the lips. I'll head for lanolin oil, as a pharma friend advised. Just got to keep those scabs on the lips! It is not too bad. Enclosing a photo. This was taken before the cracking and bleeding.
Also found that eating out of a dessert spoon (at home) was easier as less wet food touches the lip and you don't have to open so wide. All a bit basic but as this forum is about help, I'm putting in my cents-worth.
If in doubt about this treatment, "Just do it!"
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Floridagirl
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 06/17/2012 : 19:55:57
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| I have just been told I have to do efudex treatment on my face and chest. Trying to decide whether to my face in sections or go the whole hog and do it all at once. I'm afraid I'll start and then not finish. I work with the public so I'm concerned that burn victim chic not the greatest look. I know I have to, AK, BCC,SCC already, and I want avoid mohs. Any advice on how I should do it? Thanks! |
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FlaLadyB
USA
12 Posts |
Posted - 06/17/2012 : 20:30:12
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| Well hello another person from Florida. I haven't done my time with the efudex yet.. but I know I have to. I was told not to do it when its hot out - and since we are going in to the summer I would say wait till later this year. The heat apparently makes you suffer more plus the sun is stronger. What part of Florida are you in? Im in Port St Lucie just above West Palm Beach. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 06/18/2012 : 15:33:26
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Floridagirl, this is just my 2 cents, but consult your Dr. to see if you can put it off until the heat of summer is over. Or if you can do a modified schedule of twice a day for 2 or 3 days a week for several months instead of the usual 2 times a day everyday for 3 weeks to a month. Or perhaps another treatment?
If not, bite the bullet, do it and stay out of the heat as much as possible. For me, the last week was the worst. As far as how much to do, I would suggest doing your face first, and then your chest. You're right, you may start and not finish if you break your face into sections. If you've had AK, BCC and SCC already you know the score.
I work with the public too, but to heck with them if it makes them feel uncomfortable - this is your life we're talking about. Look at it as an opportunity to educate others. I printed out things like "go ahead - ask.. I know you want to", and "still think suntans look healthy?" on mailing labels and wore them on my shirt/jacket.
Whatever you do, make sure your Doc gives you something for pain and to help you sleep. |
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Floridagirl
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 06/24/2012 : 15:57:10
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| Thanks! Live in Atlanta now, so I have decided to wait until December to go ahead with the treatment. Less hot/humid then so I'm thinking it will be easier in the cold. Have to admit scared to do this, and not looking forward to it one bit even though I know I really don't have a choice. Thanks for the advice on painkillers. They did not give me one so I will ask for that. The derm sort of acted like its no big deal. I do wonder if it's worse the more damage there is? |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 06/24/2012 : 17:15:01
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Floridagirl, ask your Dermo if he or she has ever done the treatment themselves. If they act like it's no big deal, I suspect the answer is no, they haven't.
If you are putting it off until cooler weather, I'd suggest November. That way, the pain and itching are likely to be less during the xmas holiday period. I did 1 month and weeks 3 and 4 were the worst (and a few days of week 5). I also had tylenol 3's on hand that didn't help too much. I would have killed for a prescription for something to help me sleep as the itching really kicked in around midnight on most nights later on in the treatment. |
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Nodge
New Zealand
0 Posts |
Posted - 07/24/2012 : 23:18:51
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| I have my tube of Efudex. Now just need to work up the courage to get started! Scary posts on this forum. You may be interested to know the cost of it here in New Zealand. $3 for the 20g tube! (Must be highly subsidized by the government.) |
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Jackie
Australia
1 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2012 : 22:43:24
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I have just completed 14 days x2 daily on my nose and cheeks. I will have to do my forehead and chin area another time (when the fresh memories are gone  )
I wish I could have done the whole face at once but have been advised only to do small sections. Even doing 14 days was extremely difficult. People must react differently to the medication. I think I reacted quickly and the results were what someone else may have experienced after 3 weeks. In the end I was putting cream on top of layers of scabby skin. The only area that didn't react to the cream was a small section either side of my ears. I ended up with about 15 great big sores as well as red raw skin across the rest of my face.
I did my nose first before a week later deciding to go acrooss the whole middle section of my face so my nose has had a week of healing. I am fortunate I decided to do that at the end of week 1 because at the end of week 2 I would have taken a break and not treated any other area for a while. I will wait to see how long I take to get back to normal before I schedule my next section.
My nose, after one week, has lost all its scabs and layers of dead skin. It is shiny and red but smooth. I can see where the deep sores were as they are now a darker shade of red. I may end up having an uneven skin tone but I had freckles before and beginning to get a few brown spots (age spots my doc said). I don't think I will have any freckles left on the skin I have treated. They were quite pale anyway from years of wearing suncream. The problem is the years of not and the severe sun burns throughtout my life.
I was amazed by how many I had that I did not know. I knew of one on the end of my nose and one on my cheek and one on ear (my GP said to use efudix on it like a spot treatment - lucky I read that it is better to do a section or I would have missed the ones that were waiting to show themselves!!)
My cheeks are the sorest. It has only been two days since I stopped using the cream. The skin on top is a colour that is difficult to describe. It was an orange colour from the fluid that came out of the sores after applying the cream but now it is like a grey colour I suppose and under it is broken bleeding skin in places. I am using an antibiotic cream that I had already in the cupboard. I am using it on the areas that are bleeding. I am no longer using it once the skin closes over like on my nose. I am paranoid about getting an infection in the open skin. Then I am using paw paw ointment as a moisturiser simply because it is what I have in the cupboard.
If the red disappears quickly then I will do my forehead as soon as it does. My chin can wait until next winter and I may actually take some time off to do that area. I think it will be worse than the middle of my face. I wish I had done my whole face at once cause now I have to go through this again!!
I am so proud of myself. I think this process is tiring both physically and emotionally. I have had to draw on my sense of self worth and put aside the stares and even laughs and pointing from teenage boys (let's face it they are experiencing their own emotional torment at the moment so I forgive them). Though my tolerance has reached its end. I have worked every day during this experience and dropped kids off to school and shopped and the list goes on. Right now I don't want to see a single person every again until I am all healed (but I will). I have a little cry, pick myself up and continue on.
I have learnt that I place significant importance on the way I look (like others I guess or they wouldn't stare). It has been a humbling experience and even though I knew I was strong what I have learnt is that it is my own attachment to looks that caused me the greatest pain. I have a girlfriend who lives daily with a birth defect that affects her face and people stare. She is strong and positive and outgoing and she is my hero. If I can't suck up a month or so of looking like this then I do not deserve to walk next to her in the street.
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alanmowle
United Kingdom
1 Posts |
Posted - 08/20/2012 : 09:10:04
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I am in the UK where medicines are free if over the age of 65. I started my Efudix over 4 weeks ago with a 40gram tube, this costs the Pharmacist to buy into the Pharmacy Ł36.80 the Dispensing costs have then to be added and the 'buying in' costs, generally the UK is considered a low cost area for medicines, the Mexico price at $40 for 40grams seems too cheap to be true? I am lucky in that most of my needs are on the top of my bald head,however my right ear is completely scabbed up and very vascular and bleeds easily, so I do not sleep on that side, I made a mistake and applied some cream to my left ear and 3 small spots have come up there and bleed, on hindsight I would leave one ear alone, I am a former RN but never seen Efudix (That is the MEDO trade name in the UK) in action.
quote:
Originally posted by deruo
bobw - My first 40g tube lasted me about 3 weeks. I'm putting it on my scalp, forehead, rest of face, and a small spot on my shoulder, twice a day.
I think thats quite a bit of skin! I'm not sure if we're allowed to direct to other websites here but here goes: efudexed.blogspot.com . It's a blog I started, like others, in hopes of helping patients get an idea of what to expect. You can see my mug in all its' glory there. If the link gets removed, PM me and I'll send it to you that way.
It takes a couple of days to get the hang of it, the consistency in my first tube was much thicker than my second (which has a longer expiration date). I'm doing it to give everything a very thin layer. I didn't think my first tube was going to last until day 15 but I managed to squeeze enough out until day 21 or so.
My second tube expiration date is January 2013 and the consistency of the product is almost like a lotion. Goes on very easily.
Those prices in Mexico, although cheaper than the US, seem more expensive than Canada. My 40g tube at Costco here in Canada was just under 40.00 Canadian. There are a number of online pharmacies where you can buy "Canadian" drugs cheaper, and have them delivered to you in the US. You need a prescription but certainly cheaper than buying through US based pharmacies. For example, I found 1 online site where a 40g tube of Efudex was $79.00.
Charging $300.00 a tube for this stuff is criminal.
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Kite girl
2 Posts |
Posted - 08/23/2012 : 07:29:50
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Hi There.
Doc has prescribed efudex for two weeks on my lips For two weeks, once a day at night. Lots of sun history growing up and live in the Caribbean. A few big lesions and lots of burns. I was told to treat a year ago but did not. Oops. I chose Efudex over Aldara after reading the side effects of Aldara, and the doc said it is faster acting than Aldara, which is important because I am in reeal estate and can not afford a lot of down-time
The question is does any one know if using hydrocortisone cream 1% or natural Cocoa
Oil reduce the effectiveness of efudex, when used In the day 8 hours after applying efudex?
I am on day 9 of two weeks and it seems like the intense burning is done just lots of ugly weeping and scrabbling and bleeding. Now it is just hard to talk and eat.
When the burning and swelling was was so intense a few days ago, I used cocoa oil then later on a different day hydrocortisone 1% . neither of which my doc recommended.
Why I ask is because the major lesion on my lip that brought me to the doc has not been affected at all. Around it and other areas have been affected but not this one ?????
Thanks |
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Kite girl
2 Posts |
Posted - 08/23/2012 : 07:48:39
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quote:
Originally posted by JackRussell
TO JenT.
Actually, this is a response to everyone.
Efudex is no party. JenT, I guess that your earlier attempt with Efudex failed because you probably did it for only 21 days of less. There was a question earlier on this post about the varying durations in treatment. The varying duration I think is largely due to three reasons: 1) People can't take it and so the Dr cuts it short,2) Different treatment times for different cancer types, skin types and ages, and 3) I think many Dr's don't know what they are doing. Prior to doing Efudex I poured over all the studies on it. Minimum you need to go 28 days (face), two apply twice per day. If you are going after basil cell on the face then you must go 60 days. I know it's tough medicine but you are talking about pentance for years of damaging your skin. 60 days is nothing compared tot he 40 or mosr years of damage.
My girlfriend's Dr was going to remove basil cell from he cheek. A significant area would be cut and she would be scared. I got he a different Dr who thru my encouragement did Curac (eurafloricil - same stuff as Efudex). She applid it to the area for 60 days. It was a mess but you know what? She looks great today.
If you don't go long enough then It will come back some day. Get tough and just get it done. And don't forget your 50 block.
What about on the lips? Isn't the duration less when applying to the lips?
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 08/23/2012 : 22:28:36
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[/quote]
What about on the lips? Isn't the duration less when applying to the lips?
Odd thing about the lips is that I applied it to them and they seemed to react more quickly than any other area.. but.. they seemed to max out quicker too and almost stop responding. Nonetheless, I continued for 6 weeks.
My brother went nuts with Efudex and applied it to a single area for almost 12 weeks. The area reacted as expected, but then 4 weekes into it a bump that he had under that area started to reacted. He fearlessly applied for 3 months. Another brother called him crazy. That brother said that he would be scared for life. Well, it took a long to to heal but whatever that bump was deep under his skin, that he had had for years, is now gone.
Keep in mind that you are dealing with cancer here. Come on! A little discomfort and being ugly for a moth or two is nothing compared to the grusome death caused by skin cancer. Skin cancer takes no prisoners.
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AussieMike
Australia
1 Posts |
Posted - 08/24/2012 : 14:20:46
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Being of Irish genetic composition, but having grown up - not in the mist, drizzle and gloom of County Cork - but on the highveld of South Africa and the beaches of Australia, I was destined to skin cancer challenges at some stage of my life.
So here I am on day 17 of a 21 day treatment of Effudex, and I have to say that I was very badly prepared for this journey. At my wife's insistence I go for annual skin checks. But when the dermatologist one day almost casually suggested I undergo the Effudex thing, I even more casually, agreed. At no stage did he tell me to prepare myself mentally for a tough experience.
And he certainly never once used the "chemotherapy" word which I subsequently learned is what this treatment really is. I suspect the word is somewhat stigmatized and if a medical specialist declares the need for chemotherapy, that would unnecessailry scare many patients.
Still, while it isn't a barrel of laughs (as a case in point, it's 3:15am in the morning as I type this and I'm unable to sleep because of the pain and burning), I take heart from the positive experiences shared by others on this site.
Judging from what others have shared, it would seem that this current period, I.e., the latter stages of the treatment, are the most challenging. Reading about the Love-Hate relationship others have had with Effudex (Love, afterwards, but sheer Hate during treatment!) has also helped to put the tough, lonely times into perspective.
I particularly liked someone's comment along the lines of how such a harmless looking cream is able to cause such carnage and trauma.
As an Effudix "victim" it's easy to feel sorry for oneself, but I suppose if there's a cancer type to be prone to, its skin cancer. At least the enemy is visible and observable.
While right now I make Oscar the Grouch seem like the life of the party by comparison, I'm lookin forward in a few weeks time to be able to post word of encouragement similar to others who have survived the Effudex Enduro.
Best
Crusty Mike |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 08/24/2012 : 17:16:05
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| Hi Mike - read my posts. 3 weeks is not enough. You kill surface cells leaving the deeper damaged cells to fester unnoticed. You think all is OK and then one day you discover you have melanoma and its too late. Do it right and do 5 to 6 weeks. I did and I am glad. Sure it's hell but other people have been thru a lot more for a lot less. Dying of skin cancer is a hell of a lot worse, and all because you could not stick this out for 5 weeks. |
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dwoodpt
USA
1 Posts |
Posted - 09/04/2012 : 16:02:42
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| Just went through the 2 week efudex treatment with a 2 week steroid follow up. I've originally had mohs surgery on my lip and it turned out to be a 4 hr. nightmare. I was cancer free for about a year but it returned on the left side of my lower lip. I requested a consultation with my surgeon so we could go over some questions I had about the first surgery. We discussed the option of efudex. I would have tried anything not to go through the mohs. I did not receive much information from the derm. or the surgeon other than it would be a little unpleasant. I'm glad I called and asked if I should do the entire lip or just the left portion. After about 4 or 5 days it really kicked in and a series of scabs and raw area continued for the rest of the 2 weeks. It would have been extremely difficult if I had done the whole bottom lip. However the whole treatment was basically painless for me. It looked bad and I used a straw a lot , but to look at in the mirror made me smile because I knew it was working. Besides the cancer I had a lot of lip damage that would not heal, that is all gone now. I thank God there are sights like this where people can share there experience it has really helped me. In closing the efudex worked for me. I've also learned with cancer this is just one chapter you really don't know how it will end untill you read the whole book. One observation I've made reading these posts about waiting or starting a treatment, absolutely nothing good can happen waiting ! |
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 09/09/2012 : 12:55:22
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| Hi All - new to forum . . . first of all thank you all so much for sharing your FU5 experiences - I'm on Day 6 of application to my whole face (minus lips), and must report that the only change I have is in my lower lip - almost as if it is chapped - I'm being more careful with the application. I'm not sure how long I will be using as I see my derm on Day 14 - I'm sure she'll tell me then my continued approach. I too experienced a lack of information from my derm - this site has truly enlightened me, but also has prepared me for any outcome. I seem to run out and buy a new itch remedy everyday:):) . . . I'll keep you all posted . . . and, again thanks for all your comments - you too Jack Russell - I believe you!! Oh, and all the blogs are helpful too - have them 'bookmarked' to check when things get rough!! |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 09/09/2012 : 16:39:33
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| Hi MrsG - I didn't hide when I did the treatment. I was open and out there. Since that time a few people have come to me telling me they will be doing and asking what to expect. Aside from the discomfort and rash, I emphasized that they must do at least 5 weeks. Though they can clearly see how well I turned out, and they are envious of my complexion and skin, they still do not take the advice and do only 21 days. For a few now a couple years have passed and guess what? They are getting blotches and freckling and fine wrinkles. Me on the other hand, 5 or 6 years have passed and my skin is great. I'm 54 with the complexion of someone 20 years younger. I lost some pigment, and that I have to live with, but I much rather the peace of mind of wiping out any cancer in training and clearing out the blotches on their way to being some kind of liver spot freckles. Find a Dr who knows what they are doing and will help you do 5 weeks. BTW, I put it not only on my face, but my lips, neck all the way around, ears and upper chest. I admit I had more than a few bottles of wine during those 5 weeks to help me though it. I always found the discomfort to be more of a perceived discomfort than anything. Apply it once in the AM & once in the PM. Follow my advice and you'll be thankful you did. The upside of doing it right versus the downside is infinite. |
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ecobabe
Australia
2 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 01:15:32
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Today my Derm very casually prescribed Efudix with a treatment program of 1 week a month for 4 months. I'm 42 and have had a melanoma removed from my leg and numerous solar keratosis burned off my face and 3 BCCs removed from my shoulders, and we've just discovered a BOwen's on my chest that needs to be excised...
I've spent this afternoon Googling about Efudix/ex and I'm very scared to start the treatment. I am very conscious of my appearance and spend a lot of time outside of the home working which involves standing up in front of a lot of people. Also approaching summer and Christmas it's a very busy social time of the year. OMG I sound so vain, I guess I am! Has anyone had experience of the 1 week a month for 4 months treatment regime? I would like to have an idea of what to expect in terms of redness over the treatment week and also the recovery time from a week's treatment. My Derm recommended doing the treatment this way as he said it would be unlikely that I would be able to handle 28 days straight. I need to treat my whole face, hairline and sections of my lips.
Thanks for this Forum and to the people who've already shared their experiences |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 08:53:35
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Hi Ecobabe -
With all due respect the treatment regime prescribed you is idiotic. It makes absolutely ZERO sense! Efudex is a drug which interferes with the replication of cells. It interferes with the RNA in such a way that delays its ability to replicate and the cell eventually can last no longer and dies. Cancer and "pre cancer" type cells (such as the type of cells to which you refer in your post) replicate, as a rule, at a faster rate (have quicker lives) than normal, healthy cells. To apply Efudex once a week makes no sense. In doing so it would only for a moment (less than 24 hours) disrupt the replication. Once that period passed the cell would then replicate. Few to no cancer/precancer cells would die.
The prescribed application of Efudex is once every 12 hours. I applied it for about 5 weeks. Some apply it for only 3 weeks. My results are long term and permanently killed the bad cells as opposed to what the 3 weeks regime did which was leave bad cells deep under the surface.
I have less pigment now but it is worth it. All blotches, freckling and fine lines are gone. It has been over six years now.
I would not recommend doing it before the summer. Your skin will be fragile after treatment and must be protected from the sun. And for the rest of your life you must protect it because it will continue to be fragile.
People on this forum are poorly informed. Many Dr's appear poorly informed as well. I live in Boston, Mass. I went to the best Dr's on the planet at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. They told me the right thing to do. I bit the bullet and did my five weeks. You have to bite the bullet, take the discomfort and suck up the vanity. Do you want to die of skin cancer? How about being sliced and diced and scared having these things removed?
And when applying it, if a spot continues to be getting red at 5 weeks do not stop applying it to the spot. Do not stop until it scabs over.
A month after you finish treatment you will be back to normal - except for any deep spots which you chased beyond the 5 weeks.
When you start treatment it takes about a week to start getting red. Once you finish treatment it takes about 3 weeks to look like your old self.
So do it right and do 5 weeks!!!
Sure it's uncomfortable but I thought Ausie chicks were tough.
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 09:38:50
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JackRussel, to clarify I believe she meant that her derm said to apply it FOR a week a month for 4 months, Not to apply it once a week. Thats the way I read it anyway.
Either way, I agree that this is not enough. My face only started rocking after a week of twice daily applications.
I see no reason to put down other members here as being poorly informed. Whose fault is that? We are here to help others. We are not Drs. Nor presumably, are you. I wasn't thrilled with my Dr. but as we've seen there are wildly varying lengths of treatment and some Drs. can't seem to agree on what is "standard".
Everyone is different. My face was not "back to normal" after a month. I finished on November 23rd and was still patchy dark pink in January into February. Not as bad as it was, but still. Certainly not "normal".
Now ecobabe, all this being said - I do agree with JackRussell on several points. First, based on what you've described about your medical history, I would not think that this treatment is going to do that much for you. Unless your Dr is trying to get you started during your summer and then do a heavier treatment afterwards. If you have a choice, I would not do the twice daily treatment during the summer as your skin becomes extremely sensitive to the sun and heat. I asked my derm if I could wait until the fall (for several reasons) and he said no problem. Finally, no one "wants" to do this, but is death from skin cancer/melanoma a better alternative? Permanent disfiguring scars from surgery make you feel better? Of course not. Suck it up and get it done.
If you are like most Aussies I've met, you probably spent a lot of time outdoors in the sun, and based on what you've experienced already, it sounds like you'll have what the Drs. call "a good reaction" to Efudex. Most of us care a great deal about our appearance and for those of us working with the public it makes it even rockier, but seriously.... this has to be done. You've already got a history of melanoma and BCC, and now something to be excised!
For what it's worth ecobabe, my Dr. told me to do it for 30 days. He suggested I do it in sections. Forehead first and then rest of face. I decided that if it was bad, I might not want to do the rest of my face after the first section was done, so I did it all at once. I'm glad I did. No it wasn't pleasant. Yes, I took time off work towards the end, yes I got some stares but thats their issue, not mine. On the plus side, I know I killed a lot, if not most of the pre-cancerous cells there AND got rid of a great deal of wrinkles at the same time ;-)
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dolfan
USA
39 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 10:04:16
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| I need to move to Canada |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 10:30:14
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| Why's that dolfan? Politics aside, south Florida isn't so bad.... or is it? |
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anivoc
449 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 12:44:45
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There's a lot of talk in this thread about dying from skin cancer.
To be clear very few people die from non-melanoma skin cancers and melanoma is melanoma not actenic keratosis, squamous or basal cell.
As I understand it these non melanoma cancer don't "turn into" melanoma. Melanoma is a different animal and when Dan set this site up he made it clear this is for treating non melanoma skin cancers..Basically though there are a lot of people here who claim they have beaten melanoma alternatively..The proof of the pudding has yet to be shown clearly or properly documented.
That said.. Efudex was a early method of treatment of non melanoma skin cancers. It was not developed for them but as a chemotherapy drug. As ocologist treated patients , those with non melanoma skin cancers started breaking out with sores all over their sun damaged bodies. The medical world connected the dots and big pharma developed a diluted down version to treat skin cancers..
I remember my sister first using it @ 20+ years ago..and me buying some from online and using it on some small Ak's I had.. A few years later when I was speaking to one well known derm here in California he said he had quit prescribing it because he felt there were better faster treatments now and that because effudex is so hard to deal with a lot of people quit before they should leaving bad cells hidden below to fester and grow unnoticed... Great!
Anyway to those of you using it follow through.. IMO there are a lot of equal or better alternative options here on this site that are faster and will provide equally good results with less time and pain.
Just my opinion and observation and to clarify...I am just a lay person taking stabs in the dark like the rest of us here.
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dolfan
USA
39 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 14:55:34
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| The problem with effudex is the heat and the sun exposure. I would love to be over and done with it in one shot, witch is what efudex sells in it's ad. My problem is my lifestyle and the fact that the pain and suffering from that cream would make me want to quit after the going got tough....just being honest. |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 09/13/2012 : 15:07:34
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Ah I get what you mean. Nothing wrong with being honest.
Ideally, I think it would be best to do it at a time of year when the sun and heat isn't at its peak, wherever you live. Especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors during daylight hours or can't make changes to your lifestyle for any period of time.
My new dermo has said that Efudex wouldn't have been her first choice for the reasons we've all heard about pain etc. She seems to prefer Aldara. I have a follow up with her in November so we'll see! |
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ecobabe
Australia
2 Posts |
Posted - 09/14/2012 : 00:57:33
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Thanks Guys, how to scare a newbie off.
My dermatologist is one of Australia's leading skin cancer specialists. I have been under his care for the past 6 years. I will follow the regime as he has prescribed because he has a great deal of clinical and professional experience.
His preference for 1 week of twice daily applications, monthly, for 4 months is based on patient compliance and outcomes. I did the first application this morning. |
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dolfan
USA
39 Posts |
Posted - 09/14/2012 : 08:43:42
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| I have a friend here in Miami who does it the same way as prescribed by his derm. He said it was no big deal and I told him what I read about (five weeks) and he said that was not necessary. Anything is better than nothing and I think you guys in cold climates should open up a halfway house for recovering efudex addicts to recover (LOL) |
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MsDubbs
USA
10 Posts |
Posted - 09/14/2012 : 22:40:18
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I've been on Efudex for 4 weeks and still have two to go. I have both basel cell and squamous cell cancer on my scalp. My scalp is really tender right now and I've lost a good bit of hair. The side effects I've had were nausea and metallic taste to begin with and itching headaches, and hair loss now. I've included pics and it's pretty nasty looking.
Image Insert:
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Edited by - MsDubbs on 09/16/2012 01:56:36 |
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John Howell
3 Posts |
Posted - 09/17/2012 : 13:14:58
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I am ten days into Efudex for my hands and arms. I am the usual mess as described above.
Maybe I am a screwball but I have and unusual experience with taste that may be a side effect. Particularly, some things have taken a bitter aftertaste and my old afternoon glass of wine- my usual brand- doesn't taste so good.
Has anyone experienced this? This symptom onset about the time I started on Efudex. |
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MsDubbs
USA
10 Posts |
Posted - 09/17/2012 : 13:33:29
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| I don't have the metallic taste anymore, but nothing tastes quite right. |
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John Howell
3 Posts |
Posted - 09/18/2012 : 18:08:36
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I am day twelve into it, more or less. I will keep going until the tube runs out. On a scale of 1-10 I would put it all at about a 1.7. The burn has become an itch. Last night I could not sleep and had to go away from my bride of 52 years and head to the couch.
I am a Marine with two hitches, one in Twentynine Palms where the desert sun was brutal. We had no full covers there or in Vietnam nor sunblock. And even if they had them I don't think the Marine Corps cared enough about us to give us the junk. So Leathernecks became Cancernecks. Everywhere that the sun don't shine I have had the squalmos and basal and all the rest. I now look like a leper but what the hell, life is the sum total of all experience. I have absorbed a lot of sunshine.
To you who are heading into the treatment: Stick it out. Life can and will deal you worse. To the gals who have put your pics up with your burn marks: You are all beautiful.
Semper Fi |
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dolfan
USA
39 Posts |
Posted - 09/18/2012 : 18:48:19
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| nice post John, my Dad was veteran of WW2 and Korea and died from cancer that they said was from the fallout of being near the atomic bomb in Nagasaki. I don't know if that is true, but I feel lucky to have escaped the horror of war. |
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 09/20/2012 : 08:35:33
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| Day 16 for me - had my two week appointment with the derm Tuesday . . . all on schedule, was instructed to continue for two months - yes two months, not weeks - OK with me - want to get it all out and move on . . .sunblock will now be my friend. Experiencing many red blotches, some drying and itching, but bearable - Aquaphor is helpful:):) Gool luck all!!! |
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MsDubbs
USA
10 Posts |
Posted - 09/21/2012 : 00:12:51
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| MrsG, good luck to you! I have 11 more days. |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 09/21/2012 : 08:31:26
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I love the spirit I see coming from MsDubbs, MrsG and John Howell. You all seem to be intent on going the needed distance [with this drug] to get the job done right. I have been begging people on this forum to bite the bullet and go the requuired amount of time to get the required outcome. When this is all done and you are 1,2,3,4 years out make sure you return to this forum as I have to report how you are doing. It's been about 6 years for me and still my skin is great. I'm paler but my complexion and skin tone are great. The time I did with effudex was well worth it - and I have no idea the problems from which it may have saved me.
Keep the pressure on! |
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MsDubbs
USA
10 Posts |
Posted - 09/21/2012 : 10:06:53
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| Thanks JackRussell!! |
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John Howell
3 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2012 : 17:34:02
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Well, fans, I am at day 18 or 19. The blisters have all turned scabby. I am sitting on my patio with a half-dozen sparrows chirping around my feet, peeling off scabs, tossing them. The sparrows love them.
I thought you might all appreciate a little Marine Corps humor in the midst of your misery. Sometimes laughter was all that we had.
Semper Fi
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MsDubbs
USA
10 Posts |
Posted - 09/23/2012 : 01:42:19
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Thanks for the chuckle!! I have until the last day of Sept. |
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 09/23/2012 : 12:41:14
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| Happy Sunday all . . . at least it seems we're all moving along . . . must say I really do miss my bike riding and golf, but have been shopping to keep the exercise going - well, I think I'm pretty much 'housebound' now - it's not pretty:):) . . . too difficult to get makeup on - I'd go out if I really needed to though:):) - quickly!!! Have some house projects that I've been avoiding that I'll start working on . . . stay well all!!!! |
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 09/25/2012 : 15:05:54
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| Cannot quite believe the change just since Sunday - woke up Monday morning all swollen, then again this morning - looks like I have a bad case of the mumps - do have a call into my derm, but she has not called:( . . . no swelling anywhere else other than my face, so not sure if it is an allergic reaction or not . . . well, maybe I'll go get some cheese for my 'whine' . . . thanks for this place . . . :) . . . well, she just called - use cold compresses - normal reaction to the damage done earlier in my tanning days . . . use sunblock!!!! She did say I could cut back or stop for a few days, but I'll try to tough it out and see what happens . . . later all:) |
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 10/01/2012 : 10:16:23
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| Well, how is everyone doing????? . . . it's been a tough week for me, but I'm pulling through - did put a call in today for some pain relief:( . . . sometimes the old saying "silence is golden" is not the case - my silence was due to no energy to share - I know this will be over in time, but it is difficult, but, better than the possible other choice . . . use sunblock all!!!! |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 10/01/2012 : 11:08:42
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| Hang in there MrsG! |
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MsDubbs
USA
10 Posts |
Posted - 10/01/2012 : 12:01:25
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My last day of efudex was Sunday
I just wonder how long it takes to heal up? Anyone know?
MrsG, hang in there! |
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deruo
Canada
16 Posts |
Posted - 10/01/2012 : 12:45:40
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Everyone is probably a little different. The worst for me was the week after I finished.
Healing progressed very quickly from then. I was various shades of red through dark pinks for about a month after. Then just pink patches that "flushed" after exercise, washing my face or applying sunscreen for about another 2 months. |
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MsDubbs
USA
10 Posts |
Posted - 10/01/2012 : 16:52:32
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| Thanks for the reply! I'm just a little to anxious I guess. I've lost a lot of hair also, but that will grow back. I've learned alot from everyone on this board! |
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 10/04/2012 : 10:04:25
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Hi All - hope you are progressing OK . . . @Jack Russell - you seem to be experienced in 30 day and 60 day treatments - I'm on day 30 of my 60 day cycle - curious, will I experience the sloughing at the same time the 28 day peeps, or will I have to wait until the 60 day period . . . just trying to prepare for a wedding I would love to attend at the beginning of November and wondering if I'll need a "fascinator with a veil":)
MsDubbs - hope you are doing well . . . thanks for the encouragement:) |
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pamos
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 10/06/2012 : 01:47:46
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| I am just about done with week 5 of Efudex. I finally called my derm today since I have been using it once a day and wanted to find out if I should use it until I stop getting a reaction to it or just stop after a specified amount of time. Of course I was only able to speak to a tech, and it seemed like I knew more about it then she did. In any case, the derm said to use it for 3 weeks. From this forum, that does not seem long enough, so I went to 5 weeks. I have had scabbing over for the last week and half. Just wondering if because I was only applying it once a day if I should go longer? I have been applying it to each cheek. Its been pretty sore and painful, today I resorted to putting ice packs on my face at work - thats always attractive. I just do not want to have to re-do the treatment. |
Edited by - pamos on 10/06/2012 01:55:28 |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 10/06/2012 : 09:05:55
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Hi MrsG,
I reviewed your posts and was unable to determine the frequency of your applications. For me, I had applied Efudex twice a day to my face, ears and neck for 5 weeks. If you are on the same regime as I and you are about 33 days into it then you will soon pass my 35 days.
I recall it taking me two weeks after ending treatment to finish with most the peeling, and taking me about a month to fully return to normal. Actually, the first week after ending treatment you will make tremendous progress.
If you are applying it thru October and attending a wedding in early November, in say in the first week of November, then maybe think about the veil – and also consider it for the second week of November. By the third week at least you'll be feeling better about yourself even though its noticeable, but at least much of the peeling is over.
I will tell you though, just making it to the last day, that last application and knowing that, that is it. That is such a great feeling. You’ll be anxious to get the healing over with and get back to normal, but just that feeling that you have put the treatment behind you is so good.
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 10/06/2012 : 13:48:42
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Thanks JackRussell - I started Labor Day in the evening and do two applications a day on my whole face . . . when I saw my derm two weeks later, she said to do two months - admittedly, I'm not sure if that is two months total, or two more months - regardless, I'm still trying to figure out what state I'll be in in the first week of November. If I remember correctly, you mentioned your gf at the time did 60 days, and your brother did three months . . . do you recall when they started major peeling - I've had some peeling, but does not sound like those I've read on blogs, so not sure if my system needs a few days of no FU before doing it's 'after' job . . . oh well, it is what it is - I'll start shopping for a veil:):)
Welcome pamos and good luck . . .
Happy Fall all - the colors are beautiful here - well, what I can see from the windows:):) Maybe I'll go for a ride tomorrow to check out the area - we live in the most beautiful area of America for Fall colors!!!! |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 10/07/2012 : 19:00:59
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[Hi MrsG -
I asked my brother and girlfriend if they recall at what point they started to peel but they were unable. In my case it wasn't untill I stopped the treatment, which makes sense since I would think your skin cells would need to start regenerating for that to happen and that will not happen as long as you are on EF5.
My GF had basil cell which was being treated. My brother was taking it without a DR's guidance to treat what he (in his non-expert opinion) thought was pearl cell. Last I read EF5 was OK'd by the FDA only for AK & basil. I had melanoma on my neck which lit up when hit with EF5 (I later had this surgically removed). So it obviousely reacts to many non-normal cells. My brother went 90 days and we thought he had permanently scarred himself but after several months he was looking great.
I'm glad you are more than half way there - I'm really psyched for you. Come the end of November you are going to be amazed by how healthy your skin is.
You have come this far and I know you can go the distance. |
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MrsG
USA
8 Posts |
Posted - 10/10/2012 : 13:04:26
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| Hi All - thanks Jack for your info . . . well, I made it to 35 1/2 days - had an already schedule with my primary and she was not pleased with the stage of my face, so we all decided time to quit . . . now comes the aftermath . . . stay strong all:):) |
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shaecakes
USA
3 Posts |
Posted - 10/11/2012 : 14:54:37
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello, newbie here. I found this site and have read it from the beginning. I am on day 10 of 2x a day and nothing yet other than a little fatigue and occational spot burning. I wonder, is this stuff just not working, or do I just not have any sun damage? I am doing the treatment because the derm did a biopsy on one of the little red raised spots on my shoulder and came back positive. I have a lot more of them and am putting this on my face, chest, shoulders and arms. My chest has the most. I just don't get why I have had no reaction. Anyone have any clues?
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pamos
USA
2 Posts |
Posted - 10/12/2012 : 12:38:17
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| I was on it for over 3 weeks before I started to see any reaction. Trust me it will come! You are covering a lot of areas so don't get discouraged. |
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JackRussell
USA
14 Posts |
Posted - 10/12/2012 : 12:40:55
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Hi Shaecakes -
After washing the area to be treated you must rub a dab of cream onto/into that area. Apply when the skin is dry. Do not wash this area until it is time for the next application. In my situation, I did not put any creams or other products on this area during the time of treatment.
In all cases with which I am familiar, during the first week (7 days) of treatment you are in the "getting pink" stage. After this period is when the more pronounced effects begin. At day ten, if you have sun damage then you should have more than a few red spots. You should be at a point where you are starting to see and feel the effects which have brought many people to this website. You should pretty much be at a point where you are becoming anxious and counting the days to when you can stop treatment.
Hope this helps.
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Topic |
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efudex
