BIKALUTAMID

This medicine contains the active ingredient bicalutamide which belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-androgens. They are blocking the male sex hormone androgen and lower the amount of testosterone in the treatment of prostate cancer. The cancer needs testosterone to grow and multiply, so by blocking this hormone bicalutamide slows its growth. Bicalutamide is used with other drug treatments or with surgery.

Is Bicalutamide suitable for me?

Bicalutamide is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to bicalutamide or to other ingredients of this medicine
• if you take terfenadine or astemizole (for hay fever or allergy) or cisapride (for stomach problems)
• if you are a woman, child or adolescent
• if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have liver problems
• have diabetes

Bicalutamide interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Bicalutamide?

This medicine is available in form of a film-coated tablet.

You should take bicalutamide exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• The usual dose is one tablet a day, but it will be prescribed to you according to your needs.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Bicalutamide side effects?

Like all medicines bicalutamide can cause side effects, including:

Very common side effects:

• pain in your abdomen
• blood in your urine
• feeling weak, tired or dizzy
• rash
• breast swelling or tenderness
• hot flushes
• feeling sick, indigestion

Common side effects:

• yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
• constipation
• feeling depressed,
• itchy dry skin
• changes in hair thickness
• reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction
• loss of appetite, weight gain
• swollen ankles
• chest pain

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.