Brand name: Flutamide (Eulexin)
Pronounced: you-LEKS-in
Generic name: Flutamide
Why is Flutamide (Eulexin) prescribed?

Flutamide (Eulexin) is used along with drugs such as Lupron to treat prostate cancer. Flutamide (Eulexin) belongs to a class of drugs known as antiandrogens. It blocks the effect of the male hormone testosterone. Giving Flutamide (Eulexin) with Lupron, which reduces the body's testosterone levels, is one way of treating prostate cancer. For some forms of prostate cancer, radiation therapy is given along with the drugs.
Most important fact about Flutamide (Eulexin)

Taking Flutamide (Eulexin) and Lupron together is essential in this form of treatment. You should not interrupt their doses or stop taking either of these medications without consulting your doctor.
How should you take Flutamide (Eulexin)?

Take Flutamide (Eulexin) exactly as prescribed. Do not use more or less, and do not take it more often than instructed.

If you develop diarrhea<96>a relatively common side effect of therapy<96>you may find the following measures helpful: drink plenty of fluids; avoid dairy products; increase your intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables; avoid laxatives; and take nonprescription antidiarrhea medicine. If the diarrhea continues or becomes severe, contact your doctor.

If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.

Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.
Flutamide (Eulexin) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor immediately. Since Flutamide (Eulexin) is always given with another antiandrogen drug, when a side effect develops, it is difficult to know which drug is responsible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Flutamide (Eulexin).

* Side effects may include: Breast tissue swelling and tenderness, diarrhea, hot flashes, impotence, loss of sex drive, nausea, vomiting

When the drugs are used along with radiation therapy, additional side effects may include bladder inflammation, bleeding from the rectum, blood in the urine, and intestinal problems.
Why should Flutamide (Eulexin) not be prescribed?

This drug is not intended for women, and should not be used by anyone with serious liver disease. You'll also be unable to take it if it gives you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about Flutamide (Eulexin)

Flutamide (Eulexin) has been known to cause liver failure in some patients, in rare cases leading to death. Your doctor will do blood tests to check your liver function before you start treatment with Flutamide (Eulexin), and at regular intervals thereafter. If a liver problem does develop, you may need to take less Flutamide (Eulexin) or stop taking the drug altogether. Report any signs or symptoms that might suggest liver damage to your doctor right away. Warning signs include dark urine, itching, flu-like symptoms, jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes), persistent appetite loss, and persistent tenderness on the right side of the upper abdomen.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Flutamide (Eulexin)

If you are already taking the anticoagulant drug warfarin (Coumadin), you will need to be monitored especially closely after treatment with Flutamide (Eulexin) begins. Your doctor may need to lower your dosage of warfarin.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Flutamide (Eulexin) can harm a developing baby. Women should never take this drug, either during pregnancy or at any other time.
Recommended dosage for Flutamide (Eulexin)

The recommended adult Flutamide (Eulexin) dosage is 2 capsules 3 times a day at 8-hour intervals for a total daily dosage of 750 milligrams.
Overdosage

You may notice breast development or tenderness with an overdose of Flutamide (Eulexin). Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.