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Bicalutamide
INFORMATION ABOUT BICALUTAMIDE
Bicalutamide Uses
Bicalutamide is used in the treatment of prostate cancer.
How Bicalutamide works
Bicalutamide blocks the effect of the natural male hormones on the growth of prostate cells. Bicalutamide also blocks the undesired effects of androgens in females such as excessive hair growth and acne.
Common side effects of Bicalutamide
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Weakness, Nausea, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Constipation, Hot flashes, Breathlessness, Blood in urine, Pain, Infection, Peripheral edema, Diarrhea, Nocturia (increased urge to urinate during the night)
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Expert advice for Bicalutamide
  • You have been prescribed Bicalutamide for the treatment of prostate cancer.
  • Take it with or without food, preferably at the same time every day.
  • It may cause your skin to become light sensitive. Avoid direct exposure to excessive sunlight and use sunscreen when outdoors.
  • If you are diabetic, monitor your blood glucose regularly while taking Bicalutamide.
  • Your doctor may want you to have regular blood tests to monitor your liver function while you are taking this medicine. Inform your doctor if you notice yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, or stomach pain.
  • Do not stop taking the medication without talking to your doctor first.
Frequently asked questions for Bicalutamide
There is limited data to support that Bicalutamide causes infertility. Bicalutamide has been shown to affect fertility in animals and therefore it is assumed that it may cause fertility on humans. Some studies have shown that it affects spermatogenesis (origin and development of the sperm cells).
Skin sensitivity has been observed in some patients while taking Bicalutamide. Therefore, you should avoid direct sun exposure, sunlamps, and tanning beds. It is advised to use a sunscreen during treatment with Bicalutamide.
No, Bicalutamide is not a form of chemotherapy medicine, it is anti-androgen medicine. Androgens such as testosterone are natural male sex hormones. Bicalutamide works by blocking the effect of androgens (testosterone) in order to stop the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Yes, Bicalutamide may cause hair loss as it is a common side effect. However, this does not affect everyone. Consult your doctor, if hair loss is worrying you.
Bicalutamide is used with another medication (gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists; such as leuprolide or goserelin) to treat metastatic prostate cancer (prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body). Other than that, Bicalutamide has been effective in treating hirsutism in patients with polycystic ovarian disease, though this is not an approved use.
Bicalutamide should be taken at the same time every day either in the morning or in the evening. Take it exactly as directed by your doctor.
Yes, Bicalutamide can cause diarrhea though it is rare. Generally, constipation is more common with this medicine. Consult your doctor if it worries you.
Bicalutamide tablets should be taken continuously for a minimum of 2 years or until the disease persists. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.