Drug name
Casodex (Bicalutamide)
Drug Uses
Casodex is used for treating cancer of prostate and other disorders defined by doctor. The drug is usually used in a complex therapy.
How Taken
Casodex is taken by mouth. The dosing and schedule are defined by doctor. The drug is usually taken simultaneously with other medicines of anti cancer therapy.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Casodex is a antiandrogen of nonsteroidal nature. The principle of its work is based on blocking the action of androgenes (male hormones, e.g. testosterone) which are produced in adrenal glands and stimulate the prostate gland (along with other male tissues, like the hair of face and body, and small breasts). Along with stimulating of growth of normal cells, the androgens are believed to stimulate the growth of cancer prostate cells. Blocking the action of androgens, Casodex prevents the growth of cancer cells.
Missed Dose
In case of missing a dose of Casodex, it's necessary to take it as fast as possible. If it happens almost in time for the next dose, it is reasonable to miss taking the dose this time and then return to the usual dosing schedule. Taking 2 doses at once is prohibited.
Storage
Store Casodex at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
Warnings Precautions
The use of Casodex is prohibited for women and the patients who:
- have an allergy to any component of the drug;
- are breast-feeding, planning to become pregnant or pregnant.
Please tell your doctor if any of listed below applies to you:
- you take any other medicines or food supplements;
- you have an allergy of any nature;
- you suffer of liver disorder.
Please note that the interaction of Casodex with oral anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) increase the possibility of severe side effects, including bleeding.
Possible Side Effects
Please tell your doctor if you are bothered with following USUAL side effects: impotence or decreased sexual ability; sleeplessness or tiredness; back, bone, pelvic, breast and other pains; muscle or general weakness; incontinence or ischuria; constipation or diarrhea; rash and skin sensitivity; flue-like symptoms (increased temperature, sore throat, runny nose, cough etc.); nausea, gas and indigestion; arthritis; bronchitis; mood and weight changes.
Immediately seek for medical assistance if you are feeling the following serious side effects:
severe allergic reactions (itching, difficult breath, swelling, etc); dark urine; severe pains (chest, stomach, muscle etc.) or flue-like symptoms; pneumonia; yellowing of the skin or eyes; vomiting; tenderness of the right upper quadrant.
The lists of side effects may be not full, do not hesitate to ask for medical help if you feel bad.
More Information
Use Casodex only if it is prescribed for you. Do not advice to use it to other people and do not share it with other people even if their symptoms resemble to yours. If the drug does not help, the symptoms do not decrease or even are getting worse, consult the doctor.