Medical uses of bicalutamide

Bicalutamide is a nonsteroidal antiandrogen (NSAA) medication primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It is also used in the treatment of other types of hormone-related cancer. Bicalutamide is taken by mouth, usually once per day. It is a racemic mixture, containing both R and S isomers.

Medical Uses

Prostate Cancer

Bicalutamide is primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It is typically used together with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue in a form of treatment known as combined androgen blockade (CAB). Bicalutamide prevents androgens such as testosterone from binding to and activating the androgen receptor, which is believed to be a necessary step in the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Other Uses

In addition to its use in prostate cancer, bicalutamide has been used off-label in the treatment of other conditions. These include hyperandrogenism in women, as well as a part of feminizing hormone therapy for transgender women. It has also been used to treat hirsutism, a condition characterized by excessive hair growth.

Side Effects

Common side effects of bicalutamide include gynecomastia, breast pain, and hot flashes. Less common side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, and elevated liver enzymes. Rare but serious side effects include liver damage and lung disease.

Pharmacology

Bicalutamide is a nonsteroidal antiandrogen (NSAA). It works by blocking the action of androgens like testosterone in the body. It does this by binding to the androgen receptor, preventing it from interacting with androgens.

History

Bicalutamide was first synthesized in 1987 by the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca. It was approved for medical use in the United States in 1995.

See Also

• Antiandrogen
• Prostate cancer
• Hormone therapy