Warnings & Recalls for Casodex
In
February 2009, the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved changes to Casodex labeling to include information about
interactions with glucose. Casodex is normally given with
LHRH and can cause a
reduction in glucose tolerance. Be sure to check your blood sugar level while taking these medications.In
September of 2010, the FDA confirmed
warnings about the possibility of
hepatic (liver) failure while taking Casodex. This risk can lead to serious
injury or even
death.Before taking Casodex tell your doctor if you have:
- any allergies
- kidney disease
- liver disease
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- any other serious illnesses
Let your healthcare provider know about
any medicines you are taking before using Casodex.
Casodex and Contraindications
Casodex is a
teratogen (can cause birth defects) and must not be handled by
women or
children.Casodex has been labeled a
pregnancy Category X medication by the
FDA. Casodex is
contraindicated in
women, especially those who are
pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Taking Casodex while pregnant can cause
birth defects (teratogenicity).
Do not take Casodex if you are a
female.
Casodex Treatment and Use
Casodex | Bicalutamide is a non-steroidal anti-androgen (male sex hormone altering) medication marketed by AstraZeneca for treating metastatic prostate cancer. Casodex was first produced in 1995 to be used in conjunction with surgery or other medications to treat advanced prostate cancer. Now, Casodex may be used alone as a short-term treatment for patients with early phases of prostate cancer.
Casodex is commonly used to treat prostate cancer in combination with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormones (LHRH).
How Does Casodex Work?
Prostate cancer growth may increase while in the presence of the male hormone testosterone, which attaches to cancer cells to speed up production. Casodex blocks testosterone and other hormones to prevent further development of the cancer. This leads to a shrinkage of the cancerous tumor in the prostate.
Casodex Dosage Information
Casodex is typically given as a combined treatment with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormones (LHRH). Dose amounts may vary depending on the patient’s medical condition. Usually, Casodex is taken as a tablet once a day, either at night or in the morning. LHRH is given to patients via injection or through an implant with a needle beneath the skin, near the navel. LHRH is normally injected in intervals every few weeks. Follow all instructions given to you by your doctor. Do not end treatment earlier than recommended.
Your doctor may require you to have your blood and liver function checked frequently to monitor the effectiveness of the medicine and may adjust the dosage.
