Tipiracil / Trifluridine Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 11, 2023.

Applies to tipiracil / trifluridine: oral tablet.

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, tipiracil/trifluridine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking tipiracil / trifluridine:

More common side effects

• black, tarry stools
• bleeding gums
• blood in the urine or stools
• blurred vision
• chills
• coughing up blood
• dizziness
• fever
• headache
• hoarseness
• increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding
• lower back or side pain
• nosebleeds
• painful or difficult urination
• pale skin
• paralysis
• pinpoint red spots on the skin
• pounding in the ears
• prolonged bleeding from cuts
• red or dark brown urine
• slow or fast heartbeat
• sore throat
• trouble breathing
• ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common side effects

• bladder pain
• bloody or cloudy urine
• frequent urge to urinate
• muscle aches
• stuffy or runny nose

Other side effects

Some side effects of tipiracil / trifluridine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• change in taste
• decreased appetite
• diarrhea
• hair loss or thinning of the hair
• lack or loss of strength
• loss of taste
• muscle or bone pain
• nausea
• stomach pain
• swelling or inflammation of the mouth
• vomiting

For healthcare professionals

Applies to tipiracil / trifluridine: oral tablet.

Hematologic adverse events

• Very common (10% or more): Anemia (77%), neutropenia (67%), thrombocytopenia (42%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Febrile neutropenia^[Ref]

Other

• Very common (10% or more): Asthenia/fatigue (52%), infections (27%), pyrexia (19%)^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Nausea (48%), diarrhea (32%), vomiting (28%), abdominal pain (21%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Stomatitis (8%)^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Nasopharyngitis, pulmonary emboli
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Interstitial lung disease^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Very common (10% or more): Decreased appetite (39%)^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Common (1% to 10%): QTc interval prolongation^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Dysgeusia^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Common (1% to 10%): Urinary tract infections^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Alopecia^[Ref]

Further information

Tipiracil/trifluridine side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer