Trifluridine

Overview of the use of Trifluridine in medicine

Trifluridine is an antiviral medication primarily used in the treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections of the eye, such as herpes simplex keratitis. It is also used in combination with tipiracil as an oral anticancer agent for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Trifluridine is a nucleoside analog that interferes with viral DNA synthesis. It is incorporated into viral DNA in place of thymidine, leading to the formation of defective DNA strands that inhibit viral replication. This mechanism is effective against both HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Medical Uses

Ophthalmic Use

Trifluridine is available as an ophthalmic solution for the treatment of primary keratoconjunctivitis and recurrent epithelial keratitis due to HSV. It is applied topically to the eye, and its use is typically limited to a short duration to prevent corneal toxicity.

Oncological Use

In combination with tipiracil, trifluridine is used in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. The combination, known as trifluridine/tipiracil (brand name Lonsurf), works by inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. Tipiracil enhances the bioavailability of trifluridine by inhibiting its degradation.

Side Effects

Common side effects of trifluridine when used ophthalmically include eye irritation, burning sensation, and increased tear production. When used in combination with tipiracil for cancer treatment, side effects may include fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, and hematological abnormalities such as neutropenia and anemia.

History

Trifluridine was first synthesized in the 1960s and was initially developed for the treatment of viral infections. Its use in oncology was later discovered, leading to the development of the combination therapy with tipiracil.

See Also

• Herpes simplex virus
• Antiviral drug
• Metastatic colorectal cancer
• Nucleoside analog