Nilutamide
Prostatic Neoplasms, Carcinoma
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Androgen Receptor Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Nilutamide
Summary
Nilutamide is used to treat metastatic prostate cancer, especially after surgery. It is used in combination with surgical castration to enhance the suppression of male hormones.
Nilutamide works by blocking the action of androgens, male hormones that can promote the growth of prostate cancer cells. This slows or stops the progression of the disease.
Nilutamide is typically prescribed for adults at a dosage of 300 mg once daily for the first 30 days, followed by 150 mg once daily. It is taken orally, with or without food.
Common side effects of Nilutamide include hot flashes, dizziness, nausea, and tiredness. Serious adverse effects include lung issues and liver toxicity.
Nilutamide can cause serious lung and liver issues. It is not recommended for patients with severe liver or lung disease, or those allergic to its components. It is also not indicated for use in women, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Indications and Purpose
How does Nilutamide work?
Nilutamide works by blocking the effects of androgens, male hormones that can promote the growth of prostate cancer cells. This helps to slow or stop the spread of cancer.
Is Nilutamide effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Nilutamide, in combination with surgical castration, improves survival and progression-free survival in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. It works by blocking male hormones that promote cancer growth.
What is Nilutamide?
Nilutamide is used to treat prostate cancer after surgery. It belongs to a class of drugs called antiandrogens, which block male hormones that promote cancer growth. This helps to stop the spread of cancer cells.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Nilutamide?
The duration of Nilutamide treatment depends on how well your body responds to the medication. It is typically continued as long as it is effective and tolerated.
How do I dispose of Nilutamide?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Nilutamide?
Take Nilutamide once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day. There are no specific food restrictions, but consult your doctor for personalized advice.
How long does it take for Nilutamide to start working?
Nilutamide begins to work soon after starting treatment, but the full effects may take several weeks to become apparent. Regular monitoring by your doctor will help assess its effectiveness.
How should I store Nilutamide?
Store Nilutamide at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
What is the usual dose of Nilutamide?
The usual daily dose for adults is 300 mg once a day for the first 30 days, followed by 150 mg once a day. Nilutamide is not indicated for use in children.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Nilutamide with other prescription drugs?
Nilutamide may interact with drugs metabolized by liver enzymes, such as vitamin K antagonists, phenytoin, and theophylline, potentially leading to increased drug levels and toxicity.
Can Nilutamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Nilutamide is not indicated for use in women, and breastfeeding women should not take this medication due to potential harm to the infant.
Can Nilutamide be taken safely while pregnant?
Nilutamide is not for use in women, especially during pregnancy, as it can harm the fetus. Women who are pregnant or could become pregnant should not take this medication.
Does Nilutamide have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Nilutamide can cause several adverse effects. Common ones include hot flashes, nausea, and dizziness. Rare but serious effects that need immediate medical attention include difficulty breathing, liver problems, and vision changes. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider and not to stop taking the medicine without their guidance.
Does Nilutamide have any safety warnings?
Nilutamide has safety warnings, including the risk of liver damage, which can be serious. Symptoms to watch for include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue. It can also affect breathing, so report any difficulty breathing or chest pain. Vision changes, like difficulty seeing in the dark, are another concern. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to catch any issues early.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Nilutamide?
Drinking alcohol can worsen the side effects of Nilutamide, such as facial flushing and malaise. It is recommended to avoid alcohol if you experience these reactions.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Nilutamide?
Nilutamide may cause dizziness and extreme tiredness, which could affect your ability to exercise. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor before engaging in physical activities.
Is it safe to stop Nilutamide?
Nilutamide is typically used for long-term management of prostate cancer. Stopping it abruptly can lead to a return or worsening of cancer symptoms. There are no known withdrawal symptoms, but discontinuing without medical advice can be risky. It's crucial to consult your doctor before stopping Nilutamide to ensure it's safe and to discuss any alternative treatments or adjustments needed.
Is Nilutamide addictive?
Nilutamide is not known to be addictive or habit-forming. There is no evidence to suggest that it causes physical or psychological dependence. Therefore, there are no specific behaviors or warning signs related to addiction for this medicine. It's important to take Nilutamide exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to discuss any concerns you may have about your medication with them.
Is Nilutamide safe for the elderly?
Nilutamide is generally safe for the elderly, but they may be more sensitive to its effects. Elderly individuals might experience side effects like dizziness or liver issues more frequently than younger adults. It's important for elderly patients to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider when starting Nilutamide. Regular check-ups and communication with the doctor can help manage any potential risks and ensure the medicine is working effectively.
What are the most common side effects of Nilutamide?
A side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medicine. Common side effects of Nilutamide include hot flashes, nausea, dizziness, and vision changes. These effects are not experienced by everyone and may be temporary. It's important to remember that new symptoms can occur when starting any new medicine and may not be related to the medicine itself. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Nilutamide if you experience side effects.
Who should avoid taking Nilutamide?
Nilutamide can cause serious lung and liver issues. It is contraindicated in patients with severe liver or lung disease. Patients should report any breathing difficulties or signs of liver problems immediately.