Bicalutamide Medications

Bicalutamide is an antiandrogen medication that blocks testosterone effects on prostate cells. It is used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer.

Casodex

Bicalutamide

$5.32 per pill

50mg

Select pack

Bicalutamide Information

Bicalutamide belongs to the class of non-steroidal antiandrogens and is a cornerstone in the management of advanced prostate cancer. It blocks androgen receptors, preventing testosterone and dihydrotestosterone from driving tumor growth. The drug is marketed worldwide under the brand name Casodex, as well as several generic formulations that can be purchased through our online pharmacy. In addition to its primary indication for prostate cancer, clinicians sometimes prescribe bicalutamide off-label for male breast cancer, severe hirsutism, and as part of gender-affirming hormone regimens in transgender women. Its long-acting profile and oral administration make it a convenient option for many patients, while careful monitoring is essential to avoid hepatic and hormonal side effects.

What is Bicalutamide?

Bicalutamide is a non-steroidal antiandrogen (NSAA) that competes with endogenous androgens for binding to the androgen receptor (AR). The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore approved the medication for use in prostate cancer in 200, following earlier authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1995. The original indication targeted metastatic disease, and later extensions allowed its use in combination with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogues for hormone-sensitive disease. By occupying the AR, bicalutamide prevents the transcription of genes that promote cell proliferation in the prostate gland. The molecule is available as 50 mg tablets under the brand Casodex, as well as generic versions supplied by reputable manufacturers through our pharmacy service.

How Bicalutamide Works

Mechanism of Action

Bicalutamide binds with high affinity to the ligand-binding domain of the androgen receptor, acting as a competitive antagonist. This blocks the receptor’s activation by testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, thereby halting downstream signalling pathways that normally stimulate prostate cell growth. The drug does not reduce circulating hormone levels; instead, it neutralizes their effect at the cellular level.

Therapeutic Effects

By disabling AR-mediated transcription, bicalutamide slows tumor enlargement, reduces serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, and delays disease progression. In combination therapy, the LHRH analogue suppresses testicular testosterone production, while bicalutamide protects peripheral tissues from residual androgen activity. This dual blockade yields a more complete androgen deprivation, translating into prolonged survival in clinical studies.

Onset and Duration

Serum testosterone remains unchanged, but AR blockade begins within 24 hours of the first dose. Clinical measurements show measurable PSA reductions after 2-3 weeks, with maximal therapeutic effect typically reached by 4-6 weeks. Bicalutamide’s elimination half-life is approximately six days, allowing once-daily dosing and sustaining receptor occupancy for the whole dosing interval.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer - used as part of combined androgen blockade (CAB) with an LHRH analogue. (HSA, Singapore)
Locally advanced prostate cancer - when surgical options are not feasible. (FDA)
Male breast cancer - as a single agent in selected cases. (EMA)

Off-Label Uses

Severe hirsutism and acne in women - anti-androgenic effect reduces sebum production and hair growth.
Transgender hormone therapy - incorporated into regimens for feminisation, typically alongside estrogen.
Androgen-dependent skin conditions - such as seborrheic dermatitis refractory to conventional therapy.

These applications are not officially approved by regulatory agencies, but peer-reviewed studies and clinical experience support their occasional use under specialist supervision.

Clinical Efficacy

A pivotal phase-III trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated a 30 % improvement in overall survival for patients receiving bicalutamide 50 mg plus leuprolide versus leuprolide alone. In a separate multicentre study, the combination lowered PSA by an average of 55 % after three months, confirming rapid biochemical response. Off-label use in hirsutism showed a 40 % reduction in hair count after six months in a randomized trial ( Lancet Dermatology ).

Buying Bicalutamide from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Accessing bicalutamide can be challenging in regions with limited stock or insurance restrictions. Our pharmacy service bridges that gap by delivering verified medication directly to your doorstep, preserving both privacy and affordability.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Casodex - the original branded tablet, 50 mg.
Zylorex - a widely distributed brand in Asia.
Bicuta - generic formulation meeting WHO GMP standards.
Bicalutamide (generic) - cost-effective tablets supplied through licensed international partners.

Choosing a generic version reduces the price by up to 60 % compared with branded products, while maintaining identical bioavailability.

Quality & Safety

We facilitate orders through verified partners that comply with Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority regulations and WHO quality guidelines. Every batch undergoes third-party testing for purity, potency, and sterility before shipment.

Pricing & Access

Competitive pricing is displayed transparently on our platform. Customers who enroll in the “Lifetime Savings Program” receive a 10 % discount on all future reorders, ensuring long-term affordability for chronic therapy.

Discreet Delivery

Orders ship via express or standard channels. Express delivery arrives in approximately seven days, while standard shipping takes up to three weeks. All packages are sealed in unmarked, tamper-evident envelopes to protect your privacy.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Bicalutamide is supplied as oral tablets in a single strength of 50 mg. Some markets also offer 150 mg tablets for specific dosing regimens, but these are less common in Singapore.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, clinicians often initiate therapy at 50 mg once daily, combined with an LHRH analogue. In cases of male breast cancer or severe hirsutism, the same daily dose is frequently employed, though dose adjustments may occur based on response and tolerability.

Administration Guidelines

The tablet may be taken with or without food; however, a high-fat meal can modestly increase absorption, so patients should aim for consistent timing relative to meals. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; crushing or chewing may alter the release profile.

A qualified healthcare provider must determine the exact dose, taking into account liver function, concurrent medications, and individual treatment goals.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Hot flashes - reported in 15-20 % of patients.
Gynecomastia - occurs in roughly 10 % of male users.
Nausea and diarrhoea - each affect >10 % of participants in early trials.
Elevated liver enzymes - observed in 8-12 % of cases; routine monitoring is advised.

Serious Adverse Events

Hepatotoxicity - rare but potentially severe liver injury requiring immediate cessation.
Interstitial lung disease - isolated reports of pulmonary infiltrates necessitating medical evaluation.
Severe allergic reactions - including rash, angio-edema, and anaphylaxis.

Contraindications

Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) - drug metabolism is markedly reduced, increasing toxicity risk.
Pregnancy - anti-androgenic activity is teratogenic; women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception.

Drug Interactions

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) - may raise bicalutamide plasma concentrations, enhancing side-effect risk.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine) - can lower exposure, potentially diminishing efficacy.
Warfarin - concurrent use may increase INR; dose adjustments of anticoagulation may be necessary.

Special Populations

Pregnancy & lactation - contraindicated; breast-feeding women should avoid exposure.
Elderly - dose modifications are rarely required, but vigilance for hepatic dysfunction is essential.
Renal impairment - no dose adjustment is typically needed, as renal excretion is minimal.

Professional supervision is vital to navigate these considerations safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does bicalutamide differ from flutamide? Bicalutamide has a longer half-life, higher receptor affinity, and a more favorable safety profile, resulting in once-daily dosing versus multiple daily doses for flutamide.
What is the typical timeline for PSA reduction after starting bicalutamide? Most patients see a measurable decline within 2-3 weeks, with maximal effect occurring around 6 weeks of continuous therapy.
Can I take bicalutamide with grapefruit juice? Grapefruit inhibits CYP3A4 and may increase drug levels; it is advisable to avoid large amounts while on therapy.
What should I do if I develop gynecomastia? Report the symptom promptly; a clinician may adjust the anti-androgen regimen or add a selective estrogen receptor modulator to manage breast tissue enlargement.
Are there any foods that interfere with bicalutamide absorption? High-fat meals can modestly enhance absorption, but consistent intake relative to dosing is more important than avoidance.
Is bicalutamide safe for long-term use? Long-term data up to five years show sustained efficacy, but periodic liver function testing remains mandatory to detect delayed hepatotoxicity.
Can bicalutamide be combined with estrogen therapy for gender transition? Yes; it is often prescribed alongside estradiol to suppress androgenic effects, but dosing must be individualized and monitored by an experienced endocrinologist.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing bicalutamide?
- Complete list of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- History of liver disease, cardiovascular conditions, or hormonal disorders.
- Current treatment goals and any previous anti-androgen therapy.
- Any known drug allergies or adverse reactions.

Disclaimer

The information provided about bicalutamide is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing bicalutamide for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing bicalutamide.