Casodex (Bicalutamide) Drug Information: Overdosage and Contraindications

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May 26, 2012

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Prostate Cancer »

What is the prostate gland?

The prostate gland is an organ that is located at the base or outlet (neck) of the urinary bladder. (See the diagram that follows.) The gland surrounds the first part of the urethra. The urethra is the passage through which urine drains from the bladder to exit from the penis. One function of the prostate gland is to help control urination by pressing directly against the part of the urethra that it surrounds. The main function of the prostate gland is to produce some of the substances that are found in normal semen, such as minerals and sugar. Semen is the fluid that transports the sperm to assist with reproduction. A man can manage quite well, however, without his prostate gland. (See the section on surgical treatment for prostate cancer.)

In a young man, the normal prostate gland is the size of a walnut (<30g). During normal aging, however, the gland usually grows larger. This hormone-related enlargement with aging is called b...

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OVERDOSE

Long-term clinical trials have been conducted with dosages up to 200 mg of CASODEX (bicalutamide) daily and these dosages have been well tolerated. A single dose of CASODEX (bicalutamide) that results in symptoms of an overdose considered to be life threatening has not been established.

There is no specific antidote; treatment of an overdose should be symptomatic.

In the management of an overdose with CASODEX (bicalutamide) , vomiting may be induced if the patient is alert. It should be remembered that, in this patient population, multiple drugs may have been taken. Dialysis is not likely to be helpful since CASODEX (bicalutamide) is highly protein bound and is extensively metabolized. General supportive care, including frequent monitoring of vital signs and close observation of the patient, is indicated.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Hypersensitivity

CASODEX (bicalutamide) is contraindicated in any patient who has shown a hypersensitivity reaction to the drug or any of the tablet's components. Hypersensitivity reactions including angioneurotic edema and urticaria have been reported [see SIDE EFFECTS].

Women

CASODEX (bicalutamide) has no indication for women, and should not be used in this population.

Pregnancy

CASODEX (bicalutamide) may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. CASODEX (bicalutamide) is contraindicated in women, including those who are or may become pregnant. There are no studies in pregnant women using CASODEX (bicalutamide) . If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be appraised of the potential hazard to the fetus [see Use in Specific Populations].

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/13/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.