Bikalutamid (andre navn Casodex)

Common use

Casodex (Bicalutamide) belongs to a group of non-steroidal anti-androgens. This medicine to treat metastatic prostate cancer and hirsutism in men. It blocks the effects of testosterone (a male hormone), which helps stop the growth and spread of cancer cells. Casodex is necessarily given together with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogue (e.g., goserelin or leuprolide).

Dosage and direction

Take Casodex by mouth with a glass of water, with or without food. Avoid cutting, crushing or chewing this medicine. Consult your doctor concerning proper dose for you.

Precautions

Before taking Casodex tell your doctor or chemist if you are allergic to Bicalutamide or if you have other allergies.
As this medicament can be absorbed by skin, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not use this medicine.

Contraindications

Casodex should not be used by women or children as well as by the patients having demonstrated a reaction of hypersensitivity to Bicalutamide.
This medicine should be carefully used by the patients with violations of function of liver.

Possible side effect

The most common side effects are: dizziness, unusual weakness, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, blurred vision, runny nose, or problems ejaculating.
Stop using Casodex and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects: penis erection that is painful or lasts 4 hours or longer, severe dizziness or fainting.

Drug interaction

No drug interactions of clinical importance have been identified.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products that you use before using this medication.

Missed dose

If you have missed your dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you see that it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not take your dose twice.

Overdose

If you think you have used too much of this medicine seek emergency medical attention right away. The symptoms of overdose usually include chest pain, nausea, irregular heartbeat, and feeling light-headed or fainting.

Storage

Store your medicines at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store them in the bathroom. Keep all drugs away from reach of children and pets.