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5-fluorouracil & calcipotriol for actinic keratosis

Skin Health | Last Active: 11 hours ago | Replies (25)

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@comeoutdancing

1. The compounded cream cost me just $45. There is no insurance reimbursement.
2. I started it last night. then this morning. No noticable redness yet.
3. I walked outside with a hat. I forgot my daily facial sunscreen but will remember to use it as usual each day. The sun damage issues are on my face, arms, legs.
4. Anybody know how careful I should be about being outside for the next week? If I can't walk 3 to 5 miles a day, my spirit gets really low.
5. I am using it sparingly, a very thin layer. Is that enough?
6. I prefer using my fingers to spread it, because I can feel the rough patches. I washed my hands before and after. May try a Qtip.
Thanks for any reported experiences.

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Replies to "1. The compounded cream cost me just $45. There is no insurance reimbursement. 2. I started..."

I used this on my legs from below the knee down. I didn't see redness until the second week. I used my fingers as well. See how you feel and look as time goes on whether you want to walk as you say. Good luck

I just started the cream on my nose 5 days ago. I didn't experience any results until day 4. I need to be on it 2wks, then off 2 wks, then back to the dermatologist. With any luck I won't need any Mohs Surgery or less of it after this treatment.

@comeoutdancing Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! There can be different responses for people when using any topical chemo for skin issues.

My suggestions, based on my own experiences:
If you want to continue walking, try to do it early morning or just before sunset when the sun rays are longer. Always wear a hat and sunscreen. A thin layer is all you need. It might be a week or so before you see any reaction. Remember, the active ingredients will work on the bad areas, areas you may not consider to be a problem.
Ginger

I used gloves to apply. Not sure if it was necessary but I thought it would hurt to be cautious. I live in WI; my doctor said it was ok to wait until it was pretty cold and I had moved inside for my walks. When I did go outside I made sure I was wearing a hat. I didn't slather it on but made sure I had a nice even coating. It took a while for the redness to appear. Overall, I feel it was worthwhile.