Why is this medication prescribed?

Bicalutamide is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of prostate cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called anti-androgens, which work by blocking the action of androgens (male hormones), such as testosterone, on the prostate cancer cells. By doing so, bicalutamide helps to slow down the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells.

It’s usually prescribed either alone or in combination with other medications or treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy, depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer.

How should this medicine be used?

As for how bicalutamide should be used, it typically comes in the form of oral tablets, and the dosage and frequency can vary depending on factors like the individual’s health condition and the specific treatment plan prescribed by their healthcare provider. Generally, it’s taken once a day with or without food.

It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule provided by the healthcare provider and not to adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting them first, as doing so can affect the effectiveness of the treatment.

Additionally, it’s essential to inform the healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions the individual may have before starting bicalutamide, as it may interact with certain drugs or worsen certain health conditions. Regular check-ups and monitoring of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels may also be required during treatment with bicalutamide to assess its effectiveness.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses of bicalutamide include:

• Hirsutism: Bicalutamide may be used off-label to treat excessive hair growth (hirsutism) in women by blocking the action of androgens.
• Transgender hormone therapy: Bicalutamide may be used off-label as part of hormone therapy for transgender individuals undergoing male-to-female transition to suppress testosterone levels.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Bicalutamide may be used off-label in the treatment of PCOS in women to help reduce symptoms associated with excessive androgen levels.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using bicalutamide:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Bicalutamide should not be used by pregnant women or women who may become pregnant, as it can cause harm to the fetus. Additionally, it is not known whether bicalutamide passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding while taking bicalutamide is not recommended.
• Liver function: Bicalutamide is metabolized by the liver, so it should be used with caution in individuals with liver impairment. Liver function tests may be conducted before and during treatment with bicalutamide to monitor for any signs of liver toxicity.
• Interactions with other medications: Bicalutamide may interact with certain medications, including other anti-androgens, so it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting bicalutamide.
• Side effects: Like all medications, bicalutamide may cause side effects, including hot flashes, breast tenderness or enlargement, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider.
• Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels may be necessary during treatment with bicalutamide to assess its effectiveness in treating prostate cancer.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice regarding the use of bicalutamide and any other medications you may be prescribed.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for bicalutamide are generally not required. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is always advisable, especially if you’re undergoing cancer treatment. If you have specific concerns about your diet while taking bicalutamide, discuss them with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of bicalutamide, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Bicalutamide, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects of bicalutamide may include:

• Hot flashes: Feelings of warmth, flushing, or sweating, particularly in the upper body and face.
• Breast tenderness or enlargement: Some men may experience breast tenderness, swelling, or enlargement (gynecomastia).
• Decreased libido (sex drive): Bicalutamide can affect sexual desire in some individuals.
• Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection may occur.
• Fatigue: Feelings of tiredness or lack of energy may occur.
• Diarrhea or constipation: Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation, may occur.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea or vomiting as side effects.
• Liver problems: In rare cases, bicalutamide may cause liver toxicity, which can manifest as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal pain, or dark urine.
• Muscle or joint pain: Some individuals may experience muscle or joint pain while taking bicalutamide.
• Weight gain: A slight increase in body weight may occur in some individuals.

These are not all the possible side effects of bicalutamide. Serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking bicalutamide, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Additionally, this medication may rarely cause allergic reactions or other serious adverse effects. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or severe dizziness, seek immediate medical attention.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Bexagliflozin:

Storage:

• Room temperature: Store bicalutamide tablets at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Keep out of reach of children: Store bicalutamide in a secure location where children and pets cannot access it.
• Original container: Keep bicalutamide in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from moisture and contamination.

Disposal:

• Follow disposal instructions: Dispose of unused or expired bicalutamide tablets according to your local guidelines or recommendations from your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Do not flush: Do not flush bicalutamide tablets down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek medical help: In case of overdose or accidental ingestion of bicalutamide, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose: Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and difficulty breathing.

What other information should I know?

• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may perform regular blood tests, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, to monitor your response to bicalutamide treatment and check for any potential side effects.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to ensure the effectiveness and safety of your treatment with bicalutamide.
• Inform healthcare providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and pharmacists, that you are taking bicalutamide, as it may interact with other medications or treatments.
• Avoid alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking bicalutamide, as alcohol may worsen certain side effects such as dizziness or liver toxicity.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice regarding the use, storage, and disposal of bicalutamide, as well as any other medications or treatments you may be prescribed.