Casodex is the brand name in the United States for the generic drug bicalutamide. It is used to treat prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate gland. It is an antiandrogen, the Mayo Clinic states, that works to prevent testosterone's effects in men. This can aid in slowing the growth of cancer. Casodex never is administered alone; instead it's given with medications, such as leuprolide or goserelin, to work in tandem with medications known as luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analogues.
Pain
When Casodex is prescribed for you, it may cause some serious common side effects. Among these is pain in various parts of your body that may be generalized or affect specific areas. You may get headaches, or you may feel pain in the left or right side of your body or in you lower back area. You also may experience painful urination. Because the occurrence of any of these symptoms is serious, it is important to contact your physician immediately if you show signs. Other occurrences of pain, such as in your breast, near your eyes, in your muscles and pelvis, are categorized as non-serious and should pass as you continue treatment with Casodex.
Cold-like Side Effects
Other serious common side effects associated with taking Casodex may include symptoms that appear to be from a common cold. For example, you may experience nasal congestion or get a cough, which also may produce mucus. There is the potential for chills and a fever as well as a runny nose and hoarseness. Your throat may become dry and sore, and you may find it difficult to swallow. Report any of these to your doctor immediately.
Sexual Side Effects
Casodex may produce problems for you sexually when you first take it. It can lower your normal drive for sexual intercourse and can make it difficult to get or keep a penis erection. None of these side effects are considered serious and should stop after a few days or a week of taking bicalutamide.
Mental Side Effects
Taking bicalutamide also may cause you to get nervous without provocation. The Mayo Clinic lists this as both a serious and non-serious side effect of Casodex, so if it does not stop in a few days, tell your physician. You also may temporarily feel drowsy when beginning treatment with the drug.
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