Indications
Flutamide is used to treat advanced prostate cancer, usually together with a medicine or surgery that lowers testosterone (such as an LHRH agonist or removal of the testes). It may also be used before and during radiotherapy for localised prostate cancer.
How It Works
Many prostate cancers need male hormones (androgens such as testosterone) to grow. Flutamide is a non-steroidal anti-androgen: it blocks androgen receptors on the cancer cells so the hormones cannot stimulate their growth. Combining it with testosterone-lowering treatment gives a more complete hormone block.
Dosage and Administration
Flutamide is prescribed and monitored by a cancer or urology specialist. Take it exactly as prescribed, usually spread through the day at regular times, with or without food. Do not stop treatment without talking to your doctor.
Interactions
Flutamide can increase the effect of Warfarin, so blood clotting tests are needed. It may raise levels of Theophylline. Avoid alcohol and other medicines that can harm the liver, such as high doses of Paracetamol, unless the doctor agrees.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Flutamide.
- Significant liver disease or raised liver enzymes before treatment.
- Women and children: not for use.
Side Effects
Common effects include breast swelling or tenderness, hot flushes, diarrhoea, nausea, loss of sex drive and erection problems, and tiredness. The urine may turn amber or yellow-green, which is harmless. Flutamide can cause serious, sometimes fatal liver damage, usually in the first months.
Get urgent medical help for yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, loss of appetite with nausea, pain in the right upper abdomen, unusual tiredness, or flu-like symptoms, as these may be signs of liver injury. Also seek help for shortness of breath or severe diarrhoea.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Flutamide is used only in men. It must not be used by women, especially those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can harm a male baby’s development.
Precautions and Warnings
Liver blood tests are needed before starting, monthly for the first 4 months and regularly afterwards; treatment is stopped if liver damage appears. Use with care in heart disease, as fluid retention can occur. Men should use contraception, as it may affect sperm.
Overdose
Overdose may cause breast tenderness, liver injury, sleepiness, vomiting and slowed breathing. Contact a doctor or hospital immediately.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic hormone therapy, non-steroidal anti-androgen.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.