Evidence-informed guide
Evidence reviewed: September 23, 2026 · Clinician review required before public launch
5-FU injections for keloids
5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is used intralesionally for keloids, either alone or in combination. A 2024 systematic review included 40 studies and found evidence of improvement while also emphasizing heterogeneous methods and the need for larger prospective trials.
What to understand
Meta-analyses have also compared corticosteroid plus 5-FU with control treatments. The research is useful for discussing options with a clinician, but it does not mean a particular regimen is right for every keloid.
Questions worth asking
- Why are you recommending 5-FU for this particular keloid?
- Would it be used alone or with a corticosteroid?
- How will we measure response?
- What side effects and follow-up schedule should I expect?
Source
Published research
2024 systematic review of intralesional 5-FU
This is a research source, not a personalized recommendation.
View on PubMed →Keloid Forward summarizes research for education. Your diagnosis, medical history and individual scar characteristics can change which options are appropriate.