Uridine Triacetate

Uridine triacetate is used for the emergency treatment of children and adults who have either received too much of chemotherapy medications such as fluorouracil or capecitabine (Xeloda) or who develop certain severe or life-threatening toxicities within 4 days of receiving fluorouracil or capecitabine. Uridine triacetate is in a class of medications called pyrimidine analogs. It works by blocking cell damage from certain chemotherapy medications.

🔔 How should this medicine be used?

Uridine triacetate comes as granules to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without meals four times a day (every 6 hours) for 20 doses. Take uridine triacetate at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take uridine triacetate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Mix the granules into 3 to 4 ounces (9 to 120 grams) of a soft food such as applesauce, pudding, or yogurt. Take the mixture right away (within 30 minutes of mixing the granules with food) without chewing the granules and then drink at least 4 ounces (120 mL) of water to make sure that you swallow all of the medication.

If you are preparing a dose for a child, measure the dose using measuring teaspoons (accurate to 1/4 teaspoon) or a scale (accurate to at least 0.1 gram). Dispose of any remaining granules; do not use granules left in the packet for your next doses.

If you vomit within 2 hours of taking a dose, take another full dose as soon as possible after the vomiting episode and then take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time.

Uridine triacetate granules can be given through certain types of feeding tubes. If you have a feeding tube, ask your doctor how you should take the medication. Follow the directions carefully.

Once you do get to see the doctor, don’t be surprised if you’re rushed out of the exam room before you get all of your questions answered, according to healthcare staffing agency Staff Care. Studies show that 41% of ophthalmologists spend just 9 to 12 minutes with a patient, and 13- to 16-minute appointments are the norm for 40% of cardiologists, 37% of pediatricians, 35% of urologists, 35% of family physicians, 34% of obstetricians and gynecologists and 30% of otolaryngologists.

It is important that you take all 20 doses of uridine triacetate, even if you feel well. Do not stop taking uridine triacetate without talking to your doctor.

Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.