The Basics
Bicalutamide (brand name-Casodex, Calutide, Caluran, Castramid, Cosalon, Utamide, Biprosta, Bicalon) is an FDA-approved treatment for prostate cancer that has spread to other body parts. It is used with another class of medication, known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, such as leuprolide or goserelin.
Bicalutamide is in a class of medications called nonsteroidal antiandrogens. It works by blocking the effect of androgen (a male hormone), to stop the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Let us walk you through all the key things you need to know about bicalutamide (Casodex)
How should I take bicalutamide (Casodex)?
Bicalutamide comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food once a day, either in the morning or evening. Take bicalutamide at around the same time every day. You should begin taking bicalutamide the same day you begin injecting the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take bicalutamide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or more often than your doctor prescribes.
Bicalutamide along with the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone, may help stop the growth and spread of cancer cells but does not cure prostate cancer. Continue to take both bicalutamide and the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone even if you feel better. Do not stop taking these medications without talking to your doctor. You can help them by tracking your side effects in Ankr.
What are the side effects of bicalutamide or Casodex?
Common side effects
- hot flashes or flushing
- bone, back, or pelvic pain
- muscle weakness
- muscle pain
- joint pain
- headache
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- loss of appetite
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- cough
- constipation
- nausea
- vomiting (Emesis)
- abdominal pain (bellyache)
- diarrhea (loose stools)
- gas
- change in weight (loss or gain)
- appetite loss (anorexia)
- dizziness (vertigo)
- pain, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
- difficulty sleeping
- feeling of uneasiness or dread
- rash
- sweating
- painful or swollen breasts
Serious side effects
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- lack of energy
- shortness of breath
- upset stomach
- increased blood pressure
- flu-like symptoms
- dull or sharp side pain
- chest pain
- inability to get or keep an erection
- need to urinate frequently during the night
- bloody urine
- painful or difficult urination
- frequent and urgent need to urinate
- difficulty emptying bladder
Bicalutamide may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication. If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Use the free Ankr platform or Ankr app to track your symptoms.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking bicalutamide or Casodex
- tell your doctor about your allergies
- tell your doctor about other intakes
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.
While you are on bicalutamide or Casodex
- you should know that bicalutamide is only for use in men. If taken by pregnant women, bicalutamide can cause abnormalities in the fetus. Women who are or may become pregnant should not take bicalutamide. If you take bicalutamide while you are pregnant, call your doctor immediately.
I forgot a dose. What should I do?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
In case of an emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can’t be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.
How should I safely store and dispose of bicalutamide or Casodex?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org
You should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA’s Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Brand names
- Casodex®
- Calutex®
- Calutide®
- Utamide®
- Cosalon®
- Biprosta®
- Bicalon®
- Caluran®
- Castramid®
Last Revised – 03/11/2023, FDA-updated- N/A, SG
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