Cancers & treatments·Regimen libraryFirst line

Fluorouracil and leucovorin (LV5FU2)

Checked 2026-09-09

Colorectal cancer when oxaliplatin or irinotecan cannot be given; the fluoropyrimidine backbone of FOLFOX and FOLFIRI

Also called FU-LV, 5-FU/LV, LV5FU2, de Gramont.

One cycle

every 14 days × 12 · about 24 weeks in total

14-day cycle × 12 (6 months) adjuvant; until progression advanced (about 24 weeks)Intravenous Continuous infusion

Components

Drug	Dose	Route	Days
Leucovorin	200 mg/m²	IV	D1, 2
Fluorouracil bolus Fluoropyrimidine antimetabolite	400 mg/m²	IV	D1, 2
Fluorouracil infusion Fluoropyrimidine antimetabolite	600 mg/m²	IV	D1, 2 (22 h infusion)

Cycles

12 (6 months) adjuvant; until progression advanced

14-day cycle

Emetogenicity

Low (10-30%)

G-CSF

Not routine

Notes

Capecitabine is the oral equivalent for most patients.
Test for DPD deficiency before fluoropyrimidines where guidance requires it.

Used in

Colorectal cancer

Products

Fluorouracil (5-FU)

Source

de Gramont, JCO 1997: bimonthly high-dose leucovorin and fluorouracil (LV5FU2)

Reference doses for a typical adult from the cited protocol or label. Doses are adjusted for renal and hepatic function, age, performance status and prior toxicity, and institutional protocols vary. Verify against the current label and your local protocol before treating. Not medical advice.