Drug Interaction Report

Using fluorouracil together with imatinib or other chemotherapy drugs may increase the risk of side effects, especially those that affect the bone marrow or gastrointestinal tract. You may experience a greater number or more severe side effects such as nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; loss of appetite; mouth sores; abdominal pain; delayed wound healing; and impaired bone marrow function resulting in low numbers of different types of blood cells. You may also be more likely to develop anemia, bleeding problems, or infections due to low blood cell counts. You should seek medical attention if you develop paleness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, unusual bruising or bleeding, fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use these medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Products containing folic acid may increase the effects of fluorouracil. You may be more likely to develop serious side effects such as anemia, bleeding problems, infections, and nerve damage when these medications are used together. Contact your doctor if you experience severe nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, paleness of skin, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, unusual bleeding or bruising, blood in the stools, fever, chills, body aches, flu-like symptoms, skin reactions, mouth ulcers or sores, and/or numbness, burning or tingling in your hands and feet. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels of certain medications such as imatinib. You should avoid consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment with imatinib. However, if you have been regularly consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice with the medication, then it is advisable for you to talk with your doctor before changing the amounts of these products in your diet, as this may alter the effects of your medication. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you experience increased side effects. Orange juice is not expected to interact.