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Home > Drug Category > Cancer Medications > Casodex and Equivalent

Casodex Information

Casodex (bicalutamide) tablets are used for the treatment of prostate cancer. Specifically, it is indicated for use in combination therapy with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog or surgical castration for the treatment of Stage D2 metastatic carcinoma of the prostate (advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body). Bicalutamide is an antiandrogen, meaning it works by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones like testosterone) in the body. Androgens can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. By blocking androgen receptors on these cells, Casodex helps to slow or stop the growth of prostate cancer. It is often used as part of a total androgen blockade strategy, aiming to reduce the levels and effects of androgens to control the disease. This leads to reduced prostate cancer cell growth and progression. Casodex delivers the active substance bicalutamide, which targets explicitly androgen receptors, helping to manage advanced prostate cancer.

Casodex Side Effects

The most common side effects of Casodex may include hot flashes, pain (e.g., abdominal, back, breast, or pelvic pain), weakness or fatigue, constipation, anemia, urinary tract infections, night sweats, nausea, diarrhea, and swelling (edema). Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Blood clots (thromboembolism): severe pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs, sudden shortness of breath
• Bloody diarrhea
• Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia)
• Chest pain
• Heart problems (cardiac failure): shortness of breath, swelling in your ankles or feet, sudden weight gain
• Hepatotoxicity (liver problems): feeling tired, feeling less hungry than usual, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, dark urine, itchy skin, nausea or vomiting, pain on the right side of your stomach area, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)/Pneumonitis (lung problems): trouble breathing, shortness of breath, cough, fever
• Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) (characterized by rash, blistering, peeling skin)
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat

Casodex Precautions

Do not use Casodex if you are allergic to bicalutamide or other ingredients in this medication. Casodex is not for use in women. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have liver problems, heart problems (including heart rhythm problems), or a history of blood clots. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Casodex and other medications, such as blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), as Casodex can increase the effect of these medications and increase the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of anticoagulant therapy is recommended. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Casodex. Casodex is not for use in women, and it can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. It is unknown if bicalutamide passes into breast milk. Casodex is not for use in women, and therefore, its use in breastfeeding is not applicable. Do not use this medicine in children without talking to your doctor. The safety and effectiveness of Casodex in children have not been established.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Casodex comes as a tablet. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it into pieces. You can take Casodex with or without food. The usual dose is one 50 mg tablet taken once daily, at approximately the same time each day. Casodex should be used in combination with an LHRH analog or surgical castration. Take Casodex at the same time(s) each day to help you remember. Your doctor may order regular blood tests to monitor your prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and liver function, monitor blood thinner levels if applicable, and adjust your dosage as needed. Continue taking Casodex as directed by your doctor. This medication is typically a long-term treatment for prostate cancer. Store Casodex at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Casodex?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Casodex.