Caluran Cp 50 Mg Tablet (30 Tab)

CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET

Name: Caluran 50 CP Tablet. The active ingredient, Bicalutamide, is also available under other brand names, including Casodex.

Composition: Each tablet contains Bicalutamide 50 mg. Bicalutamide is a non-steroidal anti-androgen.

Uses: Caluran 50 CP Tablet is primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It is often prescribed for advanced prostate cancer, including metastatic prostate cancer, and may be used in combination with Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH) agonists or after surgical removal of testicles. It works by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones like testosterone) that stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells, thereby slowing the progression of the disease and shrinking tumors.

Dosage and Administration: The recommended dose for prostate cancer, when used in combination with an LHRH analog, is one 50 mg tablet once daily. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day (morning or evening). Tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken.

Side Effects: Common side effects include weakness, skin rash, swelling and tenderness of the breast (gynecomastia), nausea, dry skin, weight gain, hair loss, hot flashes, anemia, reduced sex drive, constipation, depression, indigestion, and dizziness. Serious side effects, though rare, can include severe allergic reactions, liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes, pain in the upper right stomach, unusual bleeding/bruising), and shortness of breath.

Precautions:

• Not recommended for women or children. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Patients should inform their doctor if they have diabetes, liver, or heart problems.
• Regular monitoring of liver function and blood glucose levels may be required.
• Avoid direct exposure to excessive UV light or sunlight and use protective clothing/sunscreen as the medicine may increase sunburn risk.
• Avoid taking with cisapride, astemizole, or terfenadine. Caution is advised with coumarin anticoagulants, and PT/INR should be monitored.
• Effective contraception is advised for men and their partners during treatment and for 130 days after discontinuing Caluran CP Tablet due to potential effects on fertility and possible harm to a fetus.
• Alcohol consumption should be limited.

Storage: Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight, typically below 30°C or between 10°C to 25°C. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

1. What is CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET used for?

CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET, containing Bicalutamide, is primarily used to treat advanced prostate cancer in adult men. It can also be prescribed in combination with other medications like Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH) agonists or after surgical removal of the testicles. In some cases, it may be used off-label to manage hirsutism (excessive hair growth) in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

2. How does CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET work?

CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET works by blocking the effects of male hormones, specifically androgens like testosterone, which stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. It binds to androgen receptors, preventing testosterone from interacting with them, thereby slowing down or stopping the growth and spread of cancer cells and helping to shrink prostate tumors.

3. What is the usual dosage for CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET?

CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET is typically taken once daily, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. The exact dosage and duration will be determined by your doctor based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water.

4. What are the possible side effects of CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include weakness, skin rash, breast swelling and tenderness (gynecomastia), nausea, dry skin, weight gain, hair loss, hot flashes, anemia, decreased sex drive (libido), constipation, depression, indigestion, dizziness, and increased urge to urinate at night (nocturia). More severe but rare side effects can include liver function abnormalities, shortness of breath, and allergic reactions. If side effects persist, worsen, or if you experience yellowing of the skin, loss of appetite, dark urine, or abdominal pain, consult your doctor immediately.

5. Is CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET is not recommended for women and is considered unsafe during pregnancy, with studies showing harmful effects on the developing baby. It is also contraindicated for breastfeeding women, and its use in such cases should be discussed with a doctor. Effective birth control measures are advised for both males and females during treatment and for 130 days after discontinuing the medication.

6. Can CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET can interact with certain medications. You should avoid taking it with cisapride, astemizole, or terfenadine. It can also alter the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications like warfarin, increase the effects of sedatives such as midazolam and triazolam, and may interact with immune system medications like cyclosporine. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

7. What precautions should be taken while using CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET?

Take precautions such as avoiding direct exposure to excessive UV light or sunlight and wearing protective clothing outdoors, as the medicine may increase sunburn risk. Regular tests are recommended to monitor liver function. If you have diabetes, liver, or heart problems, inform your doctor before taking this medicine, as close monitoring of blood glucose levels may be required for diabetic patients. Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it may increase the risk of side effects.

8. What happens if a dose of CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, simply skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. It is important to maintain the prescribed schedule for the medication's effectiveness.

9. How should CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET be stored?

Store CALURAN CP 50 MG TABLET at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep it out of reach of children.