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Casodex (bicalutamide)

ANI Pharmaceuticals · FDA-approved active Quality 51/100

Casodex works by blocking the androgen receptor, a protein that helps prostate cancer cells grow.

Casodex (bicalutamide) is a small molecule androgen receptor inhibitor originally developed by AstraZeneca and currently owned by Ani Pharms. It was FDA-approved in 1995 for the treatment of metastatic prostate carcinoma. As an off-patent medication, Casodex is available as a generic from multiple manufacturers. This medication works by blocking the androgen receptor, which is a protein that helps prostate cancer cells grow. It is a key treatment option for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

At a glance

Generic namebicalutamide
SponsorANI Pharmaceuticals
Drug classAndrogen Receptor Inhibitor [EPC]
TargetAndrogen receptor
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhaseFDA-approved
First approval1995

Mechanism of action

. Mechanism of Action. CASODEX is non-steroidal androgen receptor inhibitor. It competitively inhibits the action of androgens by binding to cytosol androgen receptors in the target tissue. Prostatic carcinoma is known to be androgen sensitive and responds to treatment that counteracts the effect of androgen and/or removes the source of androgen.When CASODEX is combined with luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) analog therapy, the suppression of serum testosterone induced by the LHRH analog is not affected. However, in clinical trials with CASODEX as single agent for prostate cancer, rises in serum testosterone and estradiol have been noted.In subset of patients who have been treated with CASODEX and an LHRH agonist, and who discontinue CASODEX therapy due to progressive advanced prostate cancer, reduction in Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) and/or clinical improvement (antiandrogen withdrawal phenomenon) may be observed.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
FDA labelMechanism, indications, dosing, boxed warnings, drug interactions
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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