WARNING

Eulexin, also known as flutamide, is a medication primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. Like any medication, it carries certain risks and side effects. Some of the risks associated with taking Eulexin include:

• Liver Toxicity: Eulexin can cause liver damage, which may manifest as elevated liver enzymes or liver function tests. In severe cases, it can lead to liver failure.
• Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Hepatitis: In rare cases, Eulexin can cause inflammation of the liver known as hepatitis.
• Interstitial Pneumonitis: Another rare but serious side effect is interstitial pneumonitis, which involves inflammation of the lung tissue.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Eulexin, which can range from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis.
• Gynecomastia: Eulexin may cause breast enlargement or tenderness in men due to its anti-androgenic effects.
• Hot Flashes: Flutamide can cause hot flashes and sweating in some patients.
• Decreased Libido: Some individuals may experience a decrease in sexual desire while taking Eulexin.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: There have been reports of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) associated with Eulexin use.

It’s important for patients taking Eulexin to be monitored closely by their healthcare provider for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects. Prompt reporting of any unusual symptoms is crucial for managing risks associated with this medication.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Eulexin (flutamide) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of prostate cancer, particularly in cases where the cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland. It is classified as an antiandrogen medication, which means it works by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones) such as testosterone on cancer cells.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Eulexin is typically used:

• Dosage: The usual recommended dose of Eulexin for prostate cancer is 250 mg three times daily, taken orally. The medication is often prescribed in combination with other treatments such as a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist or surgical castration.
• Timing: Eulexin is usually taken at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day, such as every 8 hours.
• Administration: Eulexin tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. They can be taken with or without food.
• Duration: Treatment with Eulexin may be long-term, depending on the individual’s response to therapy and the progression of the cancer.
• Monitoring: Patients taking Eulexin should undergo regular monitoring by their healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to monitor for any potential side effects or complications.
• Compliance: It’s important for patients to take Eulexin exactly as prescribed by their healthcare provider. Missing doses or stopping the medication without consulting a doctor can affect the effectiveness of treatment.
• Combination Therapy: Eulexin is often used in combination with other medications or treatments for prostate cancer, such as LHRH agonists (e.g., leuprolide, goserelin) or surgical castration, to achieve better outcomes.

As with any medication, patients should discuss with their healthcare provider any questions or concerns they may have about the use of Eulexin, including potential side effects and drug interactions.

Other uses for this medicine

As for other uses of Eulexin, while it is primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer, there may be instances where it is prescribed off-label for other conditions. However, the off-label use of medications should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when using Eulexin include:

• Liver Function Monitoring: Eulexin can cause liver toxicity, so it’s important for healthcare providers to monitor liver function tests regularly during treatment. Patients should promptly report any symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal pain, or dark urine.
• Blood Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood counts, including complete blood cell counts, may be necessary during Eulexin treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Eulexin is contraindicated during pregnancy as it can cause harm to the fetus. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Additionally, Eulexin may pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication.
• Contraception: Men taking Eulexin should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after discontinuation, as the medication can potentially harm sperm and cause birth defects.
• Interactions: Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking, as Eulexin may interact with certain drugs, including blood thinners (anticoagulants) and medications that affect liver function.
• Allergic Reactions: Individuals with a known allergy to flutamide or any other ingredients in Eulexin should not take the medication. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Eulexin may cause peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) in some patients. Patients should report any symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands or feet to their healthcare provider.
• Eye Problems: Some patients may experience visual disturbances while taking Eulexin. Any changes in vision should be reported to a healthcare provider promptly.
• Prostate Monitoring: Patients with prostate cancer should undergo regular monitoring of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and other assessments as directed by their healthcare provider to monitor the progression of the disease.

It’s essential for patients to discuss any concerns or questions about Eulexin with their healthcare provider before starting treatment and to follow their provider’s instructions closely throughout the course of therapy.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions for Eulexin. However, it’s generally advisable to maintain a healthy and balanced diet while undergoing treatment for prostate cancer or any other condition. If you have concerns about your diet or nutrition during treatment, consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Eulexin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, 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 have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eulexin (flutamide) can cause various side effects, ranging from common and mild to rare but serious. Some of the potential side effects of Eulexin include:

• Liver Toxicity: Eulexin can cause liver damage, which may manifest as elevated liver enzymes or liver function tests. In severe cases, it can lead to liver failure.
• Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Hepatitis: In rare cases, Eulexin can cause inflammation of the liver known as hepatitis.
• Interstitial Pneumonitis: Another rare but serious side effect is interstitial pneumonitis, which involves inflammation of the lung tissue.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Eulexin, which can range from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis.
• Gynecomastia: Eulexin may cause breast enlargement or tenderness in men due to its anti-androgenic effects.
• Hot Flashes: Flutamide can cause hot flashes and sweating in some patients.
• Decreased Libido: Some individuals may experience a decrease in sexual desire while taking Eulexin.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: There have been reports of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) associated with Eulexin use.
• Visual Disturbances: Some patients may experience visual disturbances while taking Eulexin.
• Anemia: Eulexin may cause a decrease in red blood cell count, leading to anemia.
• Thrombocytopenia: Rarely, Eulexin can cause a decrease in blood platelet count, known as thrombocytopenia.

It’s important for patients taking Eulexin to be aware of these potential side effects and to promptly report any unusual symptoms or adverse reactions to their healthcare provider. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to manage any side effects that may occur during treatment with Eulexin.

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

Storage and disposal of Eulexin (flutamide):

Storage:

• Store Eulexin tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Do not store Eulexin in the bathroom or kitchen, where it may be exposed to moisture or heat.
• Keep Eulexin out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Eulexin tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.
• Consult with a pharmacist or healthcare provider for information on the safe disposal of Eulexin.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose of Eulexin, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, confusion, and liver toxicity.
• Do not attempt to treat an overdose of Eulexin without medical supervision.

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Eulexin, as it may interact with certain drugs.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring of liver function, blood counts, and response to treatment.
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly, including signs of liver problems, allergic reactions, or visual disturbances.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Eulexin, as it may exacerbate certain side effects.
• Do not share Eulexin with others, even if they have similar symptoms or conditions.
• Follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the use of Eulexin, including dosage, timing, and special precautions.

If you have any questions or concerns about storage, disposal, emergencies, or other aspects of Eulexin use, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.