Indications
Casodex (Bicalutamide) is a drug used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as anti-androgens. It works by blocking the effects of male hormones. Bicalutamide helps reduce symptoms such as difficulty urinating, pain, and increased bone fractures caused by prostate cancer.
Casodex is an effective and safe treatment option when used as part of a combination with other drugs such as luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists. It is also used in some cases during hormonal therapy for advanced prostate cancer. Patients can expect to experience certain side effects while taking this medication, such as hot flashes, headaches, and fatigue.
Uses and Dosage
Casodex (Bicalutamide) comes in the form of a tablet and should be taken with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. It is important not to increase your dose or use the drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Doing so will not improve your condition any faster, and it may increase your risk of serious side effects.
The recommended dose for CASODEX therapy when taken in combination with a Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog is one 50 mg tablet once daily, either in the morning or evening, with or without food. It is advised that CASODEX is taken at the same time each day and should be started concurrently with the LHRH analog.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Casodex Include:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Hot flashes
- Increased night-time urination
- Nausea
- Pain in your back
- Pelvic pain
- Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Casodex Include:
- Blurry vision
- Breast pain or swelling
- Darkened urine
- Dyspepsia
- Fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Increased thirst
- Loss of appetite
- Urinary frequency
- Yellowing of skin
Form and Strength
Casodex (Bicalutamide) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Casodex: Tablet
- 50 mg
- 150 mg
Bicalutamide: Tablet
- 50 mg
- 150 mg
Caution
- CASODEX is not safe for pregnant women, as it can cause fetal harm. There is no data on the use of CASODEX in pregnant women. There is no information available on the presence of bicalutamide in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant or milk production.
- Cases of death or hospitalization due to severe liver injury (hepatic failure) have been reported post-marketing in association with the use of CASODEX.
- Hepatotoxicity in these reports generally occurred within the first three to four months of treatment.
- Hepatitis or marked increases in liver enzymes leading to drug discontinuation occurred in approximately 1% of CASODEX patients in controlled clinical trials.
- R-bicalutamide is an inhibitor of CYP 3A4; therefore, caution should be used when CASODEX is given with other medications that are metabolized by CYP 3A4.
- Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs or symptoms of hepatotoxicity.
- Patients should be monitored for liver function tests before, during, and after treatment with CASODEX.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Casodex (Bicalutamide) used for?
Casodex (Bicalutamide) is used to treat advanced prostate cancer (stage D2) in combination with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog.
How long does it take to start working?
It usually takes a few weeks to start feeling the effects of Casodex.
Is there an alternative to Casodex?
Yes, there are other drugs available to treat prostate cancer, such as flutamide, nilutamide, and enzalutamide. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best treatment option for you.
Is Casodex safe for long-term use?
Casodex is considered safe for long-term use in appropriate doses. However, you should discuss any concerns with your doctor.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Casodex (Bicalutamide)?
If a dose of Casodex is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, but the next dose should not be doubled.
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