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Generic Name : BICALUTAMIDE

ABSTRACT –

Bicalutamide belongs to the anti-androgens class of drugs used primarily in the treatment of prostate cancer. It is used in combination with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or the removal of testicles surgically. It is also beneficially used for excessive hair growth treatment in in transgender as a procedure of feminine hormone therapy. It should never be consumed by a woman or child.

DOSAGE –

• Bicalutamide has to be taken as directed by the doctors.
• Prescribed dosage:
Tablet: 50 mg

SIDE EFFECTS –

• Nausea
• Dry skin
• Abdominal pain
• Breast tenderness
• Gynecomastia (breast development) in males
• Reduced penile length
• Demasculinization
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased libido
• Elevated liver enzymes

RARE SIDE EFFECTS:

• Interstitial lung disease
• Liver toxicity
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Lung dysfunction

SHORT-TERM EFFECTS:

• The patient can witness photosensitivity.
• The patient suffers from sexual dysfunction.

LONG-TERM EFFECTS:

• Treatment for long term leads to severe liver toxicity along with interstitial pneumonitis.
• The angioedema may also occur.

DRUG INTERACTIONS –

• Amoxicillin
• Bosentan
• Carbamazepine
• Clathiromycin
• Eliglustat
• Dexamethasone
• Delavirdine
• Erythromycin
• Fluoxetine
• Fosphenytoin
• Imantinib

MILD INTERACTIONS OF BICALUTAMIDE ARE:

• Acetaminophen
• Amiodarone
• Aspirin
• Chlorpheniramine
• Fluconazole
• Mifepristone
• Nefazodone
• Oxycodone
• Sufentanil

PRECAUTIONS –

• Take an allergy test for androgens.
• Do not use the drug before sexual maturation.
• Male patients should not consume the drug if planning for a baby.
• Avoid overuse and consumption of drug for liver balance.
• Get hepatic enzyme levels checked regularly.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION WITH BICALUTAMIDE:

• The drug usage during pregnancy leads to deformed fetus development and even death of the fetus.
• Miscarriages are common during early pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding affects the reproductive system along with the liver malfunctioning.

WARNINGS –

• Do not stop the drug abruptly
• In case of unbalanced hepatic enzymes, get modified medication.
• In case of difficulty in breathing, consult a doctor immediately.
• Avoid too much sugar according to the fluctuating glucose levels.
• Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.