Tegafur

Tegafur itself is an inactive drug that is converted by the body into the active drug fluorouracil. Fluorouracil is a cytostatic – it inhibits cell growth and cell division. Tegafur is used to treat advanced stomach cancer, usually in combination with gimeracil and oteracil. Gimeracil reduces the rate at which fluorouracil is broken down, allowing it to remain effective for longer. Oteracil is used to reduce side effects.

Tegafur and the benefit of DNA analysis

The rate at which tegafur is processed within your body varies from one individual to another. This means that the efficacy and side effects of tegafur can be predicted to some extent on the basis of your genes. DNA analysis can therefore be an important tool in optimising your medication.