Casodex
Bicalutamide
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Casodex
Casodex belongs to a group of drugs called anti androgens (non steroidal) like flutamide (Eulexin) and nilutamide (Nilandron) etc. Androgens like testosterone are hormones that are produced and released by the adrenal glands. Androgens stimulate tissues that are male, like prostate glands in males. Male traits or male characteristics that are influenced by androgens include facial hairs (beard, mustache) and body hair (hair in chest) and small breasts. Anti androgens like Casodex (Bicalutamide) prevent actions of androgens by blocking the receptors present in the male organs like prostate gland. Androgens also stimulate the growth of cancer cells within the prostate which function is in addition to the stimulation of prostate gland. Casodex is helpful in preventing the prostate cancer by blocking the effect of androgens (e.g. testosterone) in the cells of prostate gland.
Therapeutic Uses of Casodex
Casodex is an oral medicine and it is used in the treatment of cancer of prostate. It is generally used in combination with other anti cancer medicines in treatment of prostate cancer. It can be used in other medical conditions, that your doctor determines fit for treatment with Casodex.
Direction of use of Casodex
Casodex should be used as directed by your doctor. Exact dosing information and instruction are there in the label that is available with the medicine. Casodex is taken by mouth on full stomach or without food on empty stomach. Take it along with other medications that are used for prostate problem so that it becomes easier to remember.
Dose of Casodex, if Missed
If you miss a dose of Casodex, it should be taken as soon as remembered. If you miss for long time and it is almost time for the next dose than skip the missed dose and continue taking Casodex as regular dosing schedule. Never take 2 doses at a time.
How to Store Casodex
Casodex is stored at room temperature away from heat, moisture and direct light. It is a toxic medicine and should be kept out of reach of children.
More Information About Casodex
Casodex is a toxic drug and it is necessary that it should be kept out of reach of children at any cost. If you have any doubt about Casodex, consult your doctor. Never share it with anyone and use it for yourself only if it is prescribed for you. If there is no improvement of symptoms, than consult your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Casodex
Casodex should not be used if you have any of the following and consult your doctor immediately:
- If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breast feeding.
- If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Casodex.
If you have to use Casodex, you should inform your doctor or other health care provider if you have any of the following medical conditions:
- If you have allergy to certain foods, medicines (sulfonamides) or other substances.
- If you have any liver disease, because Casodex is metabolized in the liver.
- If you are using any prescription or non prescription medicine, any of the herbal preparation or any diet supplementation.
- If you are a woman.
Some medicines can interact with Casodex, inform your doctor or other health care provider if you are taking medicines like warfarin (oral anticoagulant), because the side effects (bleeding) of warfarin will be increased.
Possible Adverse Effects
Consult your doctor if you have any of the common side effects while taking Casodex that are listed below:
- Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, urinary incontinence, urine retention, insomnia, anxiety, depression, running nose, sore throat, bronchitis, cough, backache, bone pain, breast tenderness, pelvic pain, arthritis, skin rash, abnormal skin sensitivity, impotence, decrease sexual ability, infection, weight gain etc.
Consult your doctor immediately if you have any of the severe side effects that are listed below:
- Severe allergic reaction (hives, difficulty in breathing, itching, skin rash, tightness in chest, swelling of lips, mouth, face or tongue), flu like symptom, chest pain, persistent vomiting, pneumonia, tiredness, stomach ache, pain in muscle, loss of appetite, jaundice or yellowness of eyes and skin etc.