Brand Name Manufacturers	Casodex
Generic Manufacturers	None
Pharmacology	CASODEX is a non-steroidal antiandrogen. It competitively inhibits the action of androgens by binding to cytosol androgen receptors in the target tissue. When CASODEX is combined with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogue therapy, the suppression of serum testosterone induced by the LHRH analogue is not affected. However, in clinical trials with CASODEX as a single agent, rises in serum testosterone and estradiol have been noted.
Delivery	0.5mg dutasteride per soft gelatin capsule.
Typical dosage	Pre-op 150mg/day or more? (unknown) Post-op (not recommended)
Availability	Approved by U.S. FDA
Indications	Treatment of Stage D 2 metastatic carcinoma of the prostate.
Contraindications	CASODEX is contraindicated in any patient who has shown a hypersensitivity reaction to the drug or any of the tablet’s components. CASODEX has no indication for women, and should not be used in this population, particularly for non-serious or non-life threatening conditions. Further, CASODEX should not be used by women who are or may become pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. CASODEX may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women. Hepatitis: Rare cases of death or hospitalization due to severe liver injury have been reported post-marketing in association with the use of CASODEX. Hepatotoxicity in these reports generally occurred within the first three to four months of treatment. Hepatitis or marked increases in liver enzymes leading to drug discontinuation occurred in approximately 1% of CASODEX patients in controlled clinical trials. In clinical trials with CASODEX as a single agent for prostate cancer, gynecomastia and breast pain have been reported in up to 38% and 39% of patients, respectively.
Adverse reactions	53% of those taking CASODEX report experiencing Hot Flashes (Other adverse reactions listed below in order of decreasing frequency) Neoplasm; Neck pain; Fever; Chills; Sepsis; Hernia; Cyst Angina pectoris; Congestive heart failure; Myocardial infarct; Heart arrest; Coronary artery disorder; Syncope Melena; Rectal hemorrhage; Dry mouth; Dysphagia; Gastrointestinal disorder; Periodontal abscess; Gastrointestinal carcinoma Edema; BUN increased; Creatinine increased; Dehydration; Gout; Hypercholesteremia Myalgia; Leg cramps Hypertonia; Confusion; Somnolence; Libido decreased; Neuropathy; Nervousness. Lung disorder; Asthma; Epistaxis; Sinusitis Dry skin; Alopecia; Pruritus; Herpes zoster; Skin carcinoma; Skin disorder Dysuria; Urinary urgency; Hydronephrosis; Urinary tract disorder
Comments	Clinical studies have shown that it is three times LESS potent as an anti-androgen than the equal amount of Flutamide. Pre-operative transsexual dosage range is unknown as this drug is generally not used as a TS HRT anti-androgen. Manufacturer recommended dosage is 50mg/day in conjunction with a LHRH analogue. It is not intended to be used as a monotherapy.
Additional Info:	Casodex drug insert (PDF file on this site)

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