Casodex: Advanced Androgen Blockade for Prostate Cancer Control
| Product dosage: 50mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 10 | $5.00 | $50.03 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 20 | $4.80 | $100.06 $96.06 (4%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 30 | $4.64 | $150.09 $139.08 (7%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $4.50 | $300.17 $270.16 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $4.45 | $450.26 $400.23 (11%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $4.32 | $600.35 $518.30 (14%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $4.24 | $900.52 $763.44 (15%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $4.18 | $1350.78 $1128.65 (16%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $4.00
Best per pill | $1801.04 $1440.83 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms
| |||
Casodex (bicalutamide) is a nonsteroidal antiandrogen medication specifically formulated for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It functions by competitively inhibiting androgen binding at the receptor level, thereby impeding the growth-stimulatory effects of testosterone on prostate cancer cells. Typically administered as part of a combined androgen blockade strategy alongside a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog, Casodex offers a targeted approach to hormonal therapy. Its well-established efficacy profile and once-daily dosing regimen make it a cornerstone in the management of metastatic and locally advanced disease, providing clinicians with a reliable option for suppressing tumor progression and alleviating cancer-related symptoms.
Features
- Contains bicalutamide as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in 50 mg film-coated tablets
- Designed for oral administration with once-daily dosing
- Exhibits high affinity for androgen receptors
- Demonstrates a long elimination half-life (approximately 5-6 days)
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards
Benefits
- Effectively suppresses testosterone-driven tumor growth in advanced prostate cancer
- Reduces disease-related symptoms such as bone pain and urinary obstruction
- Delays disease progression when used in combination with LHRH analogs
- Convenient once-daily dosing supports treatment adherence
- Well-tolerated profile compared to some alternative antiandrogens
- Provides meaningful extension of progression-free survival in appropriate patients
Common use
Casodex is primarily indicated for use in combination therapy with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. This combination approach, known as combined androgen blockade, provides complete androgen suppression by simultaneously inhibiting testicular testosterone production (via LHRH analog) and blocking androgen receptor signaling at the cellular level (via Casodex). The medication is commonly prescribed for metastatic prostate cancer (Stage D2) and may also be used in certain cases of locally advanced disease. Some clinicians may employ Casodex as monotherapy in specific patient populations, though this represents an off-label use in many regions.
Dosage and direction
The standard recommended dosage of Casodex is one 50 mg tablet taken orally once daily, preferably at the same time each day. Administration should begin simultaneously with LHRH analog therapy and continue as long as clinically appropriate. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and may be taken with or without food. No dosage adjustment is typically required for elderly patients, though careful monitoring is advised. For patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, dosage reduction may be necessary based on clinical assessment. Treatment duration is determined by the treating oncologist based on disease response, tolerability, and overall treatment objectives.
Precautions
Regular monitoring of liver function tests is essential during treatment with Casodex, particularly during the first 4-6 months of therapy. Patients should be advised about potential photosensitivity reactions and recommended to use appropriate sun protection. Periodic cardiovascular assessment is warranted due to potential effects on lipid metabolism. Blood glucose monitoring may be indicated in diabetic patients, as antiandrogen therapy can influence insulin sensitivity. Patients should be counseled about potential fertility implications, and sperm banking may be discussed prior to treatment initiation when appropriate. Regular assessment of bone mineral density should be considered for patients on long-term therapy.
Contraindications
Casodex is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to bicalutamide or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in women, particularly those who are pregnant or may become pregnant, due to potential teratogenic effects. The medication is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C). Concomitant use with terfenadine, astemizole, or cisapride is contraindicated due to potential QT prolongation risks. Casodex should not be administered to patients who have demonstrated previous serious adverse reactions to antiandrogen therapy.
Possible side effect
The most frequently reported adverse reactions include hot flashes (approximately 50% of patients), breast tenderness or gynecomastia (38%), nausea (15%), and constipation (12%). Other common side effects may include asthenia, pain, peripheral edema, and hypertension. Hepatic abnormalities, including elevated transaminases and jaundice, occur in approximately 10% of patients. Less frequently, patients may experience dyspnea, anemia, rash, or depression. Rare but serious adverse events include hepatitis, hepatic necrosis, and heart failure. Most side effects are dose-dependent and often manageable with symptomatic treatment or dose adjustment.
Drug interaction
Casodex is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes and may interact with medications that inhibit or induce this pathway. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase bicalutamide concentrations, while inducers (rifampin, carbamazepine) may decrease efficacy. Warfarin therapy requires careful monitoring due to potential interactions affecting anticoagulant control. Casodex may enhance the effects of medications that prolong QT interval. Concurrent use with other hepatotoxic drugs may increase the risk of liver injury. The medication may interfere with laboratory tests for testosterone and other androgen levels.
Missed dose
If a dose of Casodex is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed administration. Consistent daily dosing is important for maintaining stable receptor blockade, so patients should be encouraged to establish a routine that supports adherence. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance on resuming therapy.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote for Casodex overdose. Reported cases of overdose have been limited, with no documented fatalities. Symptoms may include exaggerated pharmacological effects such as increased hot flashes, gastrointestinal distress, or dizziness. Management should consist of supportive measures and symptomatic treatment. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion occurred within a short timeframe. Given the medication’s long half-life, extended monitoring may be necessary. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective due to high protein binding. Patients experiencing suspected overdose should seek immediate medical attention.
Storage
Casodex tablets should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in their original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Do not store in bathrooms or other areas prone to humidity fluctuations. Properly discard any expired medication or tablets that show signs of damage or deterioration. Patients should be advised not to transfer tablets to alternative containers that may not provide adequate protection from environmental factors.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional familiar with the patient’s specific medical history and current condition. Dosage and administration recommendations may vary based on regional prescribing information and clinical guidelines. Patients should never initiate, modify, or discontinue Casodex therapy without proper medical supervision. The full prescribing information should be consulted for complete details regarding use, warnings, and precautions.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate that Casodex in combination with LHRH analogs provides effective androgen suppression with generally favorable tolerability. The combination shows equivalent overall survival to orchidectomy with added quality-of-life benefits related to physical body image. Many clinicians appreciate the predictable side effect profile and once-daily dosing convenience. Some studies note better preservation of sexual function compared to alternative antiandrogens, though individual responses vary. Long-term follow-up data support its position as a well-established option in prostate cancer management. Patients often report satisfaction with the manageable side effect profile compared to other hormonal therapies.