Caludec 50mg Tablet (Bicalutamide 50mg)

INTRODUCTION

CALUDEC 50MG contains Bicalutamide which belongs to the group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-androgens. It is indicated for the treatment of metastatic prostate carcinoma (stage D2) either alone or in combination with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogs. Metastatic prostate carcinoma is the cancer of prostate gland, where the tumor growth has spread to different parts of the body.

Bicalutamide blocks the undesirable effects produced by androgens (male sex hormone) and inhibits the growth of cancer cells in prostate. This medicine is intended for use only in men. It can be taken with or without food. During this treatment, regular monitoring of serum Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is required to access the patient’s response. Bicalutamide might have an effect on male fertility which could be reversible. Consult your doctor if this is a concern for you.

Male patients who have a female partner who can become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment with this medicine and for 130 days after final dose. Treatment with this medicine can increase the sensitivity of skin towards sunlight. Avoid sunlight and sunlamps, and always consider using a sunscreen during this treatment. Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have any kidney or liver disease. CALUDEC 50MG is strictly not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

USES OF CALUDEC 50MG

Treats metastatic prostate carcinoma

HOW CALUDEC 50MG WORKS

CALUDEC 50MG inhibits the growth of malignant prostatic tissue by competing with androgen for binding to androgen receptors. This blocks the action of androgens from adrenal and testicular origin and reduces the growth and proliferation of cancer cells.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Take CALUDEC 50MG as directed by your physician. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the medicine as whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. Try taking this medicine at the same time each day. Your doctor will decide the correct dose for you depending upon your condition. Continue to take this medicine, as long as your doctor tells you to do so, to obtain better results.

SIDE EFFECTS OF CALUDEC 50MG

SERIOUS
Liver problems (including yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, right upper stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, loss of appetite, chills or fever)
Allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty in breathing)
Bleeding problems
Gynecomastia (breast enlargement in males)
Breast pain in males
COMMON
Hot flashes
Body pain
Feeling weak
Constipation or diarrhea
Infection
Nausea, dizziness
Swelling in your arms, ankles, legs or feet
Shortness of breath
Blood in your urine
Frequent urination at night
Anemia
Reduced sex drive

HOW TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS

Feeling sick (nausea):

Try taking this medicine with, or just after meal. Stick to simple meals. Do not eat rich or spicy food.

Constipation:

Eat fibre rich foods like fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals. Drink plenty of water. Exercise more regularly.

Diarrhea:

Drink lots of fluids, such as water or juice, to avoid dehydration. Do not take any medicines without speaking to a doctor.

Stomach pain:

Try to rest and relax. You can eat and drink slowly or have smaller and frequent meals. Keeping a heat pad on your stomach may also help. If still pain persists, speak to your doctor.

INTERACTIONS

Talk to your doctor, if you are taking,

Medicines used to stop blood clotting (e.g. warfarin)
Terfenadine and astemizole (used to treat hay fever)
Cisapride (used to treat stomach problems)
Ciclosporin (used to suppress immune system)
Cimetidine (used to treat stomach ulcers)
Ketoconazole (used to treat fungal infection)
Calcium channel blockers (used to treat high blood pressure) such as amlodipine, verapamil