Uridine Triacetate
Vistogard is a brand-name medication containing uridine triacetate, used as an antidote for patients who experience severe or life-threatening toxicities from overdosing on or unexpected adverse reactions to fluorouracil (5-FU) or capecitabine chemotherapy. It is the only FDA-approved reversing agent for these chemotherapy overdoses and toxicities, and should be given as soon as possible after symptoms appear. This medication is typically administered in a hospital or clinical setting under medical supervision.
Vistogard is an emergency antidote used to treat severe toxicity from fluorouracil or capecitabine chemotherapy overdose.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1739795
- Generic
- Vistogard
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Vistogard is indicated for the treatment of acute, life-threatening toxicity caused by an overdose of fluorouracil (5-FU) or capecitabine. It is also used for early-onset, severe adverse reactions to these chemotherapy agents, including severe myelosuppression, neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, and gastrointestinal toxicity.
Vistogard contains uridine triacetate, which is converted to uridine in the body. Uridine bypasses the metabolic blockade caused by 5-FU toxic metabolites, restoring normal pyrimidine nucleotide pools in healthy cells and counteracting the cytotoxic effects of the chemotherapy drugs. This helps protect bone marrow and other tissues from further damage.
Vistogard must be started as soon as possible within 96 hours of 5-FU/capecitabine exposure for best effectiveness. It is an oral medication (granules) that can be mixed with soft foods. Patients should not consume dairy products or drinks at the same time as taking this medication. Treatment does not replace supportive care and monitoring for other complications of chemotherapy toxicity. Common side effects may include vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy