Flutamide is an anti-androgen medication primarily used to treat prostate cancer. Here’s a brief description:
- Classification: Flutamide belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-androgens, specifically designed to inhibit the action of androgens (male hormones) in the body.
- Mechanism of Action: It works by blocking androgen receptors, thereby preventing testosterone and DHT from promoting the growth of prostate cancer cells.
- Indications: Flutamide is commonly prescribed for metastatic prostate cancer, often in combination with other treatments like LHRH agonists.
- Dosage Forms: It is available in oral tablet form, typically taken three times a day, with or without food.
- Side Effects: Common side effects may include hot flashes, liver toxicity, gastrointestinal disturbances, and breast tenderness.
- Monitoring: Regular liver function tests are necessary during treatment due to the risk of hepatotoxicity.
- Contraindications: Flutamide is contraindicated in patients with severe liver disease or hypersensitivity to the drug.
- Drug Interactions: It may interact with other medications that affect liver enzymes, necessitating caution and monitoring.
- Use in Women: While primarily for men, flutamide can also be used in some cases for women with hirsutism or certain types of breast cancer.
- Effectiveness: Clinical studies have shown that flutamide can effectively lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and improve patient outcomes in advanced prostate cancer.
If you have specific questions about flutamide or its uses, feel free to ask!