Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Tipiracil/Trifluridine Oral Tablet (TRIFLURIDINE/TIPIRACIL - ORAL)

For treating cancer.

Brand Name(s): Lonsurf

Generic Name: Tipiracil/Trifluridine

Instructions

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Take within 1 hour after finishing meal.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Discard any unused medicine after 30 days.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Avoid touching any powder from a broken tablet. If the powder touches the skin, nose, or eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.

Wear disposable gloves when handling this medicine.

If any powder spills from broken tablets, wipe it up with a damp paper towel and throw away immediately in a closed plastic bag.

Always wash your hands after handling this medicine.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine and for at least 1 day after taking the last dose.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • hair loss
  • nausea and vomiting
  • changes in taste or unpleasant taste

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding that is severe or takes longer to stop
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • chest pain
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.