Bicalutamide
Trade Name:
Casodex
Type of Drug:
Bicalutamide belongs to the general group of drugs known as hormones or hormone antagonists. It is a nonsteroidal antiandrogen and is used to treat advanced prostate cancer.
How Drug Works:
Bicalutamide stops the growth of cancer cells that depend on male hormones.
How Drug Is Given:
The bicalutamide tablet should be taken by mouth with a glass of water with or without food. It should be taken about the same time each day. The dose is the same for everyone. Bicalutamide treatment is usually started at the same time as another drug in injection form called a LHRH analogue. This also blocks the action of the hormone testosterone. Keep the pills in a tightly closed container and out of the reach of children and pets.
Read the following information. If you do not understand it or if any of it causes you special concern, check with your doctor.

Before taking this drug, tell your doctor:

  • If you are trying to become pregnant, are pregnant, or breastfeeding. This drug may cause birth defects if either the male or female is taking it at the time of conception or during pregnancy. Men and women who are taking this drug need to use some kind of birth control. However, do not use oral contraceptives (“the pill”) without checking with your doctor.

  • If you think you may want to have children in the future. Many chemotherapy drugs can cause sterility.

  • If you have any of the following medical problems: chickenpox or exposure to chickenpox, gout, heart disease, congestive heart failure, shingles, kidney stones, liver disease, or other forms of cancer.

  • If you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and herbals.
Should I avoid any other medicines, foods, alcohol, and/or activities?
Your prescription and nonprescription medicines may interact with other drugs, causing harm. Certain foods or alcohol can also interact with drug products. Never begin taking a new medicine—prescription or nonprescription—without asking your doctor or nurse if it will interact with alcohol, food, or other medicines. Some drug products can cause drowsiness and affect activities such as driving.
Precautions:
Bicalutamide is usually given along with another medicine to block testosterone.
Tell all the doctors, dentists, and pharmacists you visit that you are taking this drug.
  • Most of the following side effects probably will not occur.
  • Your doctor or nurse will want to discuss specific care instructions with you.
  • They can help you understand these side effects and help you deal with them.
Side Effects:
More Common Side Effects
  • Swelling of the breasts
  • Tenderness of the breasts
Less Common Side Effects
  • Hot flashes
  • Constipation
Rare Side Effects
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
Other side effects not listed above can also occur in some patients. Tell your doctor or nurse if you develop any problems.
FDA Approval: This drug is approved for cancer treatment.