Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

FLUTAMIDE - ORAL

(FLEW-tuh-mide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Eulexin

WARNING: This medication may cause serious, even life-threatening liver problems. Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, fever, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, or unusual fatigue. Laboratory tests (e.g., liver function tests) should be performed before and during use of this drug. Your doctor will be monitoring your treatment closely.

Uses

Flutamide is used for prostate cancer. It is used along with another medication to make it more effective. This medication is not intended for use in women.

How To Use

Take this medication exactly as directed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often because the side effects of this drug may increase. This medication is best taken at evenly spaced intervals, and may be taken with or without food. Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor's permission.

Side Effects

Hot flashes, diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, swelling or tenderness of the breasts (gynocomastia), decreased sexual desire or ability (impotence), and decreased fertility may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: rash, drowsiness, weakness, unusual fatigue, swelling of the body (edema), mental/mood changes, easy bleeding or bruising, persistent sore throat, fever, bluish skin. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these very unlikely but serious side effects: yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, fever, stomach pain, lumps in your breasts, a sunburn-like effect (sun sensitivity). An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: blood disorders, liver problems, any allergies, tobacco use. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcohol intake because it can intensify the dizziness or drowsiness effects of this medication. Because this drug may make you more sensitive to the sun, limit sun exposure. Wear a sunscreen and protective clothing. This drug is not recommended for use in children. This drug is not indicated for use in women and may cause fetal harm if used by a pregnant woman.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use especially of: mibefradil, warfarin. Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that make you drowsy, such as: sleep medicine, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicine, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check the labels of your cough-and-cold preparations because many contain drowsiness-causing antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Consult your pharmacist if you are uncertain your medicines add a drowsiness effect. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include loss of appetite, vomiting, slow breathing, decreased activity, and trouble walking.

Notes

This medication must be taken under close medical supervision. Discuss the risks and benefits of this therapy with your doctor. Laboratory tests (e.g., liver function) will be done periodically to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.