Product Details: Casodex (Bicalutamide)

PLEASE NOTE CASODEX IS ALSO MARKETED INTERNATIONALLY UNDER THE NAME COSUDEX.

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: AstraZeneca

Generic Options

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This medicine is an anti-androgen used in combination with another medicine to treat prostate cancer.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C), in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Take this medicine regularly to receive the most benefit from it. Taking this medicine at the same time each day will help you to remember. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. IT MAY TAKE SEVERAL WEEKS for this medicine to work. Do not stop using this medicine without checking with your doctor. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this medicine for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. Laboratory or medical tests, including liver function test, kidney function test, blood counts, or prostate specific antigen may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are taking this medicine. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include constipation, nausea, diarrhea, hot flashes, sweating, or painful or enlarged breast in men. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience muscle aches, bladder problems, mental or mood changes, unusual increase in coughing, sore throat, difficulty sleeping, fruity breath odor, feeling of warmth, or decreased sexual ability. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience blood in the urine; yellowing of the skin or eyes; unusual tiredness or weakness; weight loss; chest pain; swelling of your hands, legs, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Bicalutamide