Casodex is anti-androgen drug, usually assisted with another prostate cancer treatment. This product may associate with Warfarin (Coumadin) therapy. Thus the dosage of Warfarin may need corrections.
Casodex is an oral treatment of the prostate cancer. Casodex belongs to a type of medications, named anti-androgens. To this group belong also such preparations as Eulexin (Flutamide) and Nilandron (Nilutamide).
The example of androgens is testosterone. Androgens hormones are produce by the adrenal glands. These hormones promote male tissues (in particular, prostate gland). Androgens hormones also influence the male traits includng facial and body hair and small breasts. Anti-androgens block the influence of androgens by blocking the receptors for androgens on the cells of tissues, in particular, prostate gland cells. Androgens also have been detected to promote the development of cancer cells within the prostate. This medicine’s working mechanism is known to block the androgens influence on the cancer cells.
Do not use this medicine for other health conditions.
This product has not been approved for use in women.
Casodex Safety Information
You should take Bicalutamide orally with or without meal. Take one 50 mg pill in the morning or in the evening. Choose the exact time to take this medicine each day. Do not stop treating with this product even if you start feeling well. Do not discontinue the therapy, unless your health care provider tells you to do so.
In case of missing a dose of Bicalutamide, take it as soon as you remember to do so. However, if it's about time to take your next dose, skip the missed one and follow your regular schedule. Thus take the next dose when it's time for it. Never take a double dose at once.
Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.
You should not be treating with this medicine in case you have an allergy to any component in Casodex.
Do not stop treating with this product even if you start feeling well. Do not discontinue the therapy, unless your health care provider tells you to do so.
You should not increase the dose you take without health care provider’s recommendation. Do not take this preparation for longer period than your doctor advices you.
This medicine may start working in a few weeks.
Casodex Side Effects
Medical tests, including prostate specific antigen, liver function test, kidney function test, blood counts may be required during the Bicalutamide therapy. Keep all the appointments; this will help to monitor your health condition.
Do not start treating with this preparation without having consulted with your health care provider.
Among the side effects may occur facial flashing or hot flashes (50% of patients). It happens when Bicalutamide and a Gonadotrophin- releasing factor analog are taken simultaneously. Drinking alcohol may add to this effect, thus try to avoid it. Use alcohol with caution.
Among the other most common side effects, caused by the combination of these medicines are constipation and overall pain, diarrhea, pain in the back, hips and stomach.
Breast pain and enlargement are less likely to occur. However, this side effect may be caused by the Bicalutamide alone.
If your condition does not improve or if symptoms worsen, consult with your health care specialist immediately.
Casodex should be used only in case of doctor's prescription. Do not share it with others.
Make sure you have refills in case you are prescribed for a prolonged therapy.
