Bical 50mg Tablet (Bicalutamide)

Bical 50mg Tablet (bicalutamide) is a non-steroidal antiandrogen medicine that acts as an androgen receptor inhibitor. This has an active ingredient, bicalutamide, that treats advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. This is prescribed in combination with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog as part of androgen-deprivation therapy. Bicalutamide 50mg tablets work by blocking male sex hormones, specifically testosterone, which can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. This competitively binds to androgen receptors to prevent the androgen from activating these receptors and reducing the androgen-driven growth of prostate cancer cells.

The tablet is taken orally and is consumed with or without food. Doctors prescribe one tablet a day but ensure to take it at the same time to maintain consistency. The dosage of the bicalutamide 50mg tablet is determined according to the indication, the patient's condition, and the treatment response. Patients are advised not to change the dosage because it can lead to severe side effects.

Common side effects can include hot flashes, pain, weakness or fatigue, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, infection, swelling of the limbs, and anemia. Also, they can undergo breast tenderness or enlargement during the treatment. Most of bicalutamide 50mg tablet side effects can leave when the body adapts to the medicine. However, if any side effects persist, inform your doctor immediately.

The medicine is generally not indicated for women or children. Patients must list all medicines, supplements, and herbal products that they are taking. The bicalutamide 50mg tablet must be used under medical oversight or medical supervision only. Attend regular tests and follow-ups to monitor the medicine response and reduce side effects. Before making any adjustments, changing the dose, or stopping the treatment, consult with your doctor to maximize the benefit.

Prostate Cancer

Like other anticancer medicines, Bical 50mg Tablet (bicalutamide) also has some common to severe side effects. These undesired symptoms are observed in the body after taking this tablet and usually disappear with time as the body adjusts to the medicine. However, if the symptoms don't disappear with time or you have severe side effects, then consult your doctor immediately.​

Common Side Effects Include:
● Abdominal pain
● Constipation
● Decreased appetite
● Dizziness
● Hot flashes
● Nausea
● Nocturia (increased urge to urinate during the night)
● Edema (swelling)
● Anemia (low number of red blood cells)
● Rash
● Weakness
● Breast tenderness

The doctor determines the dosage and duration of Bical 50mg Tablet (bicalutamide) as per the stage of cancer as well as the age & overall health condition of the patients. Swallow it as a whole with water and don't chew, crush or break the tablet. This tablet may be taken with or without food. In case of an overdose of this tablet, contact your doctor or any healthcare provider and seek medical attention immediately.

● Smith, M. R., Goode, M., Zietman, A. L., McGovern, F. J., Lee, H., & Finkelstein, J. S. (2004). Bicalutamide monotherapy versus leuprolide monotherapy for prostate cancer: effects on bone mineral density and body composition. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 22(13), 2546-2553.
● Osguthorpe, D. J., & Hagler, A. T. (2011). Mechanism of androgen receptor antagonism by bicalutamide in the treatment of prostate cancer. Biochemistry, 50(19), 4105-4113.
● Scher, H. I., Liebertz, C., Kelly, W. K., Mazumdar, M., Brett, C., Schwartz, L., ... & Schwartz, M. (1997). Bicalutamide for advanced prostate cancer: the natural versus treated history of disease. Journal of clinical oncology, 15(8), 2928-2938.
● Goa, K. L., & Spencer, C. M. (1998). Bicalutamide in advanced prostate cancer: A review. Drugs & aging, 12(5), 401-422.
● Cockshott, I. D. (2004). Bicalutamide: clinical pharmacokinetics and metabolism. Clinical pharmacokinetics, 43(13), 855-878.