Nilutamide
General Information
Nilutamide is a drug known as anti-testosterone used to treat prostate cancer. Testosterone is a natural hormone that helps prostate cancer grow and spread. Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate which is a small walnut-shaped gland in men. It produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Usually, prostate cancer grows slowly and is initially confined to the prostate gland.
How does Nilutamide work?
Nilutamide works by preventing testosterone from binding to androgen receptors in the prostate gland. It also acts on an area of the brain called the hypothalamus. It ultimately results in a reduction in the amount of testosterone produced by the body. Therefore, it starves cancer cells of testosterone that prevents them from growing. Eventually, the prostate tumor will shrink.
Why use Nilutamide?
Nilutamide blocks the effects of testosterone that it slows the growth and spread of prostate cancer. This medication is a nonsteroidal and orally active anti-androgen. It is microcrystalline and white to practically white powder. Nilutamide is available in a 150 mg tablet for oral use. This contains Nilutamide as an active ingredient. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication.
How to use Nilutamide?
The dosage for this medication is based on your age, medical condition, and response to it. This prescription is to be taken exactly as it is prescribed. Do not use more or less or more often than it is given.
Nilutamide is given usually once a day. You may take each dose with or without a meal. The tablet is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Do not break or chew it. You need to swallow it as a whole. Remember to take it at the same time each day.
What are the side effects of Nilutamide?
- Sweating
- Hot flashes
- Dizziness
- Vision changes
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Dry skin
- Loss of body hair
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Skin rash
- Signs of alcohol intolerance (flushing or tiredness)
- Increased sensitivity to touch or pain
Warnings and Precautions
- Before taking a dose, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it. Tell as well if you have current medications.
- Let your doctor know if you have ever had liver problems or lung disease.
- This may make you dizzy. Do not drive or use any machinery.
- Do not share this or any of your drugs with others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.
- Keep this drug at room temperature.
