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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Tolak is a topical cream that contains the active ingredient fluorouracil. It is used to treat actinic keratosis, a precancerous skin condition caused by sun exposure. The cream works by targeting and destroying abnormal skin cells, promoting the growth of healthy cells in the treated area.
Before you buy tolak cream for the treatment of actinic keratosis, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and tolak cream cost.
Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis or senile keratosis, is a common skin condition characterized by rough, scaly, or crusty patches on the skin's surface. It is caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Actinic keratosis is considered a precancerous condition because if left untreated, it may develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C4H3FN2O2 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Primarily acts locally; systemic absorption is minimal |
Legal status | Prescription only |
Chemical Name | Fluorouracil topical |
Elimination half-life | Not specifically reported for topical administration; systemic half-life is approximately 10-20 minutes |
Dosage (Strength) | 4% cream |
Pregnancy advice | Category X – Not to be used in pregnancy |
Brands | Tolak |
Protein binding | Low |
PubChem CID | 3385 |
MedlinePlus | a601005 |
ChEBI | 46345 |
ATC code | L01BC02 |
DrugBank | DB00544 |
KEGG | D00584 |
Routes of administration | Topical |
Use the cream once or twice daily, depending on your doctor's recommendation.
Apply a thin layer of Tolak cream directly to the affected skin areas as instructed by your doctor.
Wash your hands after applying the cream.
Protect the treated areas from sunlight and UV rays by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen with a high SPF.
Tolak cream uses Fluorouracil as its active ingredient.
Avoid applying Tolak near the eyes, nose, mouth, or open wounds.
Protect treated areas from direct sunlight and use sunscreen.
Inform your healthcare provider if pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Discuss your medical history, especially skin reactions or other skin conditions and any allergies you have.
Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are using.
Use Tolak as prescribed by your doctor; do not apply more or less than recommended.
Expect some redness, irritation, and crusting at the application site.
Tolak is generally not recommended for children.
Tolak has the potential to interact with systemic or topical steroids, immunosuppressants, immunomodulators, retinoids, glycolic acid products, alpha-hydroxy products, and chemical peeling products.
Tolak side effects may include redness, irritation, scarring and crusting at the application site. If you experience severe reactions, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
How long to use Tolak cream?
The duration of Tolak cream usage depends on the specific skin condition being treated. Typically, it is used once daily for 4 weeks, following your doctor's instructions.
How does Tolak cream work?
Tolak cream interferes with the growth of abnormal skin cells. It is used to treat actinic keratosis, a precancerous condition caused by sun exposure. Actinic keratosis may lead to skin cancer if not treated. The cream is applied topically and works by gradually eliminating abnormal cells and promoting the growth of healthy skin cells.
How long does it take for Tolak cream to heal?
The healing time with Tolak can vary depending on the individual and the specific skin condition being treated. Typically, when used for actinic keratosis, the healing process may take several weeks.
What is the difference between Tolak and Efudex?
Tolak and Efudex are topical creams used for skin conditions, but they have different purposes. Tolak contains 5-fluorouracil and is used for actinic keratosis (precancerous condition caused by sun exposure). Efudex also contains 5-fluorouracil and is used for actinic keratosis and certain types of superficial skin cancers. The choice between Tolak and Efudex depends on your specific condition and your doctor's recommendation.
How long do you leave fluorouracil on your face?
The time you should leave fluorouracil cream on your face varies depending on your doctor's prescription. Typically, you apply a thin layer once or twice daily to the affected areas as directed by your healthcare provider.