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Bicalutamide

This page contains brief details about the drug bicalutamide, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Bicalutamide is an oral non-steroidal anti-androgenic drug used to treat stage 2 metastatic prostate cancer. It was approved by the FDA on 19 December 2008.

Mechanism of Action of Bicalutamide

Antiandrogens counter male hormonal action by interfering with the synthesis of androgens or by blocking their receptors. Bicalutamide, anti-androgen, competes with androgen for the binding of androgen receptors, consequently blocking the action of androgens of adrenal and testicular origin, which stimulate the growth of normal and malignant prostatic tissues. Thereby reducing the growth and spread of cancer.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

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Bicatero 50mg Tablet
HETERO HEALTHCARE LTD ₹250.00
Caludec 50mg Tablet
SAMARTH LIFE SCIENCES PVT LTD ₹250.00
Casodex 50mg Tablet
ASTRAZENECA PHARMA INDIA LTD ₹575.00
Androblok 50mg Tablet
SUN PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES LTD ₹359.00

Uses of Bicalutamide

Bicalutamide belongs to a group of drugs known as nonsteroidal antiandrogens. Its mechanism involves inhibiting the action of androgen, a male hormone, thereby halting the proliferation and dissemination of cancerous cells within the prostate gland, situated just below the bladder in males. This medication is prescribed for use alongside a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist in the treatment of Stage D2 metastatic carcinoma of the prostate.

Bicalutamide Drug administaration and Dosage available

Bicalutamide is a medication supplied in 50 mg tablet form. It is typically prescribed at a daily dose of one 50 mg tablet, taken once daily (either in the morning or evening), in conjunction with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog. This treatment regimen is used for managing stage D2 metastatic prostate cancer, and the specific dosage will be determined by your healthcare provider based on individual medical considerations.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Bicalutamide

Warnings

Bicalutamide tablets should not be used by individuals with known allergies to the drug or any components of the tablet. Allergic reactions may manifest as skin rash, redness, skin inflammation, or swelling in the legs, hands, or ankles. If you experience any of these symptoms, promptly inform your physician. Continuous use of Bicalutamide has been associated with severe liver damage and bleeding. Your doctor may conduct liver function tests before, during, and after treatment to monitor for these potential complications.

Precautions

Notify your doctor immediately if you experience signs of allergic reactions such as rash, itching, skin redness, swelling of the lips or tongue, sudden cough, or low blood pressure while taking this medication. It’s important to avoid becoming pregnant while using Bicalutamide, as it may cause infertility. Discuss your plans for pregnancy with your healthcare provider beforehand. Inform your physician promptly if you notice any symptoms of bleeding. Additionally, disclose to your doctor if you have diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal issues, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, bleeding disorders, infections, or if you are taking any other prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, supplements, or herbal remedies.

Side Effects

Common side effects of bicalutamide include swelling in the legs, hands, and ankles, hot flashes, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, infections, back pain, chills, pelvic pain, weakness, blood in the urine, nighttime urination, difficulty breathing, dizziness, cough, loss of appetite, and changes in weight. More serious side effects may include heart failure, heart attack, and liver damage. If you experience any of these symptoms, inform your physician promptly.

Word Of Advice

Keep this medicine out of the reach and sight of children. Store the tablets at room temperature, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight or excessive moisture. Bicalutamide may cause dizziness; if affected, refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.

Frequently Asked Question

It is best to take this medicine at the same time each day, in the morning or in the evening. This medicine should be started at the same time as treatment with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) antagonist.
Bicalutamide blocks testosterone from reaching the cancer cells. This may shrink prostate cancer or stop it from growing. There are no proven effects on the shrinkage of the prostate glands.
Yes, the kidneys may get affected during the long-term treatment of Bicalutamide. Your physician may perform blood tests regularly to monitor your kidney function.
Yes, the drug Bicalutamide causes infertility in both men and women. Try consulting your physician if you are planning for pregnancy.
Take the tablet as a whole with a glass of water. Do not break, crush or chew the medicine. Take medicine at the same time every day for better results.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.