Casodex

Casodex is a medication used to treat prostate cancer. It is a member of a class of drugs called antiandrogens. Casodex works by blocking the action of androgens (male hormones).

Casodex is used in combination with another medication called a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog. The LHRH analog works by lowering the amount of testosterone in the body. Casodex and the LHRH analog are usually given together as a treatment for prostate cancer.

Casodex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important Information

You should not use Casodex if you are allergic to bicalutamide.

Before you start taking Casodex, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, or a history of heart disease or stroke.

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant. Bicalutamide can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. You must use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are taking this medicine.

Bicalutamide can pass into body fluids (urine, feces, vomit). Caregivers should wear rubber gloves while cleaning up a patient's body fluids, handling soiled laundry or trash, or changing diapers. Wash hands before and after removing gloves. Wash soiled clothing and linens separately from other laundry.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Casodex if you are allergic to bicalutamide.

To make sure Casodex is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease;
• heart disease or a history of heart attack or stroke.

FDA pregnancy category D. Bicalutamide can cause birth defects. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.

Bicalutamide can pass into body fluids (urine, feces, vomit). Caregivers should wear rubber gloves while cleaning up a patient's body fluids, handling soiled laundry or trash, or changing diapers. Wash hands before and after removing gloves. Wash soiled clothing and linens separately from other laundry.

How should I take Casodex?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Casodex is usually taken once per day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

You will need frequent blood tests to check your liver function.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using Casodex.

While using Casodex, you may need frequent blood tests at your doctor's office.

Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests.

Casodex side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• swelling, rapid weight gain;
• chest pain; or
• shortness of breath (even with mild exertion).

Common side effects may include:

• hot flashes, changes in skin color;
• increased sweating;
• tired feeling;
• mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation;
• joint pain; or
• swelling in your hands or feet.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Casodex?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

• ketoconazole;
• itraconazole;
• nefazodone;
• verapamil;
• diltiazem;
• erythromycin;
• clarithromycin; or
• HIV or AIDS medications--atazanavir, ritonavir, saquinavir.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with bicalutamide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.