Description

Bicalutamide Tablets 50 mg

What is Bicalutamide?

Bicalutamide is a prescription-only oral medication classified as a non-steroidal anti-androgen, primarily prescribed for the treatment of prostate cancer. It blocks the action of androgens (male sex hormones like testosterone), slowing or stopping the growth of prostate cancer cells that depend on these hormones.

Marketed under various brand names such as Casodex, Bicalutamide is commonly used either as monotherapy or in combination with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogs such as leuprolide or goserelin.

Drug Classification

• Therapeutic Class: Anti-androgens
• Pharmacological Class: Non-steroidal androgen receptor inhibitor
• Indication: Prostate cancer (locally advanced or metastatic)
• FDA Approval: Yes (under brand Casodex)

Key Indications

Bicalutamide 50 mg is indicated for:

• Advanced prostate cancer treatment
• Combination therapy with LHRH analogs (hormone therapy)
• Locally advanced non-metastatic prostate cancer
• Palliative treatment of prostate cancer

How Bicalutamide Works

Bicalutamide works by binding to androgen receptors in prostate cancer cells. This prevents testosterone and other androgens from fueling the growth and spread of tumors. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is central to the management of hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, and Bicalutamide plays a key role in this approach.

Dosage and Administration

• Typical Dose: One tablet (50 mg) once daily
• Administration: Take orally with or without food, at the same time each day
• Co-treatment: Often used alongside an LHRH analog to enhance androgen suppression
• Duration: Depends on individual response and stage of cancer

Do not discontinue or adjust the dose without your doctor’s guidance.

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Bicalutamide IP 50 mg
• Form: Film-coated oral tablet
• Packaging: Blister pack of 10 or 30 tablets (depending on brand)

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Hot flashes
• Breast swelling or tenderness (gynecomastia)
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Decreased libido
• Constipation

Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention):

• Liver dysfunction (jaundice, dark urine)
• Shortness of breath or lung problems (rare)
• Severe skin rash or allergic reaction
• Changes in heart rhythm

Patients may require regular liver function tests during treatment.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Bicalutamide or its ingredients
• Not to be used in women or children
• Use with caution in patients with liver impairment

Warnings and Precautions

• Liver Monitoring: Regular liver function testing recommended
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated (even in patient caregivers)
• Interactions: May interact with anticoagulants like warfarin
• Women and Children: Not intended for use in female or pediatric patients
• Driving or Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness

Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place
• Keep in original packaging away from direct light
• Keep out of reach of children

Benefits of Bicalutamide

• Targeted anti-androgen therapy
• Slows prostate cancer progression
• Reduces symptoms in androgen-sensitive tumors
• Oral once-daily administration improves compliance
• Can be part of combination therapy to enhance outcomes

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Bicalutamide 50 mg used for?
It is used to treat prostate cancer by blocking the effects of male hormones (androgens) that support cancer cell growth.

2. Is Bicalutamide a chemotherapy drug?
No. It is a hormone therapy (anti-androgen), not chemotherapy.

3. Can Bicalutamide be used alone?
Yes, but it is often used in combination with other hormonal therapies, especially LHRH analogs.

4. How long do I need to take Bicalutamide?
Duration depends on your response and treatment goals. It may continue for months or years under supervision.

5. Can women take Bicalutamide?
No. It is not intended for use in women and is contraindicated during pregnancy.

6. What are common side effects?
Hot flashes, reduced libido, breast tenderness or enlargement, and liver function changes.

7. Should I take Bicalutamide with food?
It can be taken with or without food. Try to take it at the same time daily.

8. Is Bicalutamide available without a prescription?
No. A valid prescription is required.

9. Can I drink alcohol while taking Bicalutamide?
Moderate alcohol may be permissible, but consult your doctor—especially if you have liver issues.

10. Can Bicalutamide be used for other cancers?
Its primary use is for prostate cancer. Off-label use should only be done on an oncologist’s recommendation.