Cosamide 50 (Bicalutamide)

Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information

Prescription Required

Quick Facts

Generic Name

Bicalutamide

Drug Class

Anti-androgen

Used For

Treatment of advanced prostate cancer in combination with other medications.

How Taken

One 50 mg tablet taken orally each day.

What Is Cosamide 50 Used For?

Cosamide 50 contains bicalutamide, which is used to treat advanced prostate cancer. It works by interfering with the actions of male hormones that can promote cancer cell growth.

Primary Uses

Advanced prostate cancer.

How It Works

Bicalutamide blocks the effects of androgens, such as testosterone, which can help cancer cells grow.

Good to know: Cosamide 50 is not addictive.

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How to Take Cosamide 50

Take Cosamide 50 exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to follow the instructions carefully.

Dosage Instructions

The usual dose for adults is one 50 mg tablet taken daily. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.

What If You Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose and it's less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. Otherwise, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double the dose.

Important: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Available Tablet Strengths

50mg

50mg Tablet White to off white, Round • B 50

Side Effects

Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:

Hot flushes or sweating
Breast tenderness or changes in breast size
Itching or dry skin, rashes
Increased hairiness or hair loss
Stomach pain or indigestion
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea or constipation
Dry mouth
Loss of appetite or weight changes
Depression
Unusual tiredness or weakness
Dizziness or light-headedness
Difficulty sleeping
Headache
Pelvic pain
Decrease in sexual drive
Inability to get or maintain an erection

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Frequent urination
Shortness of breath and dizziness when exercising
Excessive thirst with weight loss and passing large amounts of urine
Chest pain
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Dark colored urine
Rash, hives, or severe itching of the skin
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Serious breathlessness or sudden worsening of breathlessness

Important Warnings

There are specific warnings and precautions to consider before taking Cosamide 50.

Who Should Not Take Cosamide 50

Do not take Cosamide 50 if you are a woman or if you have had an allergic reaction to bicalutamide or any of its ingredients.

Medical Conditions to Discuss

Inform your doctor if you have liver problems or allergies to any medications.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Cosamide 50 should not be taken by women, and effective contraception is advised while taking this medication and for at least 130 days after stopping.

Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Cosamide 50, affecting its efficacy.

Cisapride
Terfenadine
Astemizole
Warfarin
Midazolam
Ciclosporin
Calcium channel blockers
Carbamazepine
Quinidine
Cimetidine
Ketoconazole

Alcohol & Driving

Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how Cosamide 50 affects you.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on this medication.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Some patients may feel dizzy or weak, so be careful.

Storage

Store Cosamide 50 in its blister pack in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose Information

If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.

Frequently Asked Questions

The time it takes to see effects can vary; consult your doctor for personalized information.

You can take Cosamide 50 before, with, or after food.

No, Cosamide 50 is not addictive.

Do not stop taking Cosamide 50 without consulting your doctor.