Gimeracil, Oteracil, Tegafur

Gimeracil, Oteracil, and Tegafur (GOT) is a combination medication used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, specifically colorectal cancer. This medication is a chemotherapy drug that works by inhibiting the enzyme thymidine phosphorylase, which is responsible for the synthesis of thymidine, an essential component of DNA. By inhibiting this enzyme, GOT slows down the growth and reproduction of cancer cells, thereby reducing the tumor size and potentially improving the patient’s condition.
Gimeracil is a potent inhibitor of dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), an enzyme responsible for the catabolism of fluorouracil, a component of the combination medication. By inhibiting DPD, gimeracil increases the concentration of fluorouracil in the body, enhancing its anticancer effects. Oteracil is a thymidine phosphorylase inhibitor that further enhances the efficacy of fluorouracil by reducing its catabolism and increasing its concentration in the tumor cells. Tegafur is a prodrug that is converted to fluorouracil in the body, which is the active anticancer agent.
GOT is typically administered as an oral medication, taken in cycles to allow the patient’s body to recover from the side effects of chemotherapy. The medication is usually prescribed in combination with other anticancer drugs to maximize its effectiveness and minimize the risk of drug resistance.
Some common side effects of GOT treatment include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin reactions. These side effects are generally manageable with supportive care measures and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, more severe side effects may occur, and it is essential for patients to report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.