Flutamide 250 mg: Comprehensive Guide for Prostate Cancer Treatment and Management

✅ What is Flutamide 250 mg?

Flutamide 250 mg is an oral non-steroidal antiandrogen medication primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It is often prescribed as part of a combination therapy with other drugs, such as LHRH agonists (e.g., leuprolide, goserelin), to manage advanced stages of prostate cancer.

It works by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones like testosterone) on prostate cells, which can slow or stop the growth of prostate cancer tumors that depend on these hormones to grow.

⚙️ How Does Flutamide 250 mg Work?

Flutamide is classified as a non-steroidal antiandrogen that functions by inhibiting the action of androgens (such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone). It binds to the androgen receptors in prostate cancer cells, preventing these hormones from stimulating the growth of the cancer.

Unlike treatments that reduce androgen production, Flutamide blocks the androgen receptor and thereby halts the cancer cell’s ability to grow and proliferate.

💊 Dosage and Administration

Standard Dosage for Prostate Cancer:

• 250 mg orally, three times a day (every 8 hours)
• Total daily dose: 750 mg

Administration Notes:

• Can be taken with or without food
• It is typically used in combination with LHRH agonists to form combined androgen blockade (CAB) therapy.
• Follow the prescribed dosage regimen strictly for optimal results.
• The duration of treatment depends on the severity of cancer and the individual response.

🧾 Indications

Flutamide 250 mg is used for:

• Metastatic prostate cancer (advanced, stage D2)
• Locally advanced prostate cancer, especially when used with other treatments like LHRH analogs
• Hormone therapy in prostate cancer patients to reduce androgen effects
• Off-label use may include managing hirsutism (excessive body hair in women) and hyperandrogenism in specific cases, but this is not the primary indication.

❌ Contraindications

Flutamide should not be used in the following conditions:

• Severe liver dysfunction (e.g., cirrhosis, acute hepatitis)
• Hypersensitivity to Flutamide or any of its components
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (Flutamide is contraindicated for women, as it can cause significant harm)
• Severe renal impairment may require dose adjustments or avoidance

⚠️ Warnings and Precautions

Liver Toxicity (Hepatotoxicity):

• Flutamide has been associated with serious liver damage, including hepatitis and liver failure. Patients on Flutamide should have their liver enzymes monitored regularly, especially during the first few months of treatment.

Gynecomastia (Breast Enlargement) and Tenderness:

• Men taking Flutamide may experience breast enlargement or tenderness due to hormonal changes. This side effect is generally reversible after discontinuing the medication.

Other Precautions:

• Monitoring of liver function is critical to detect early signs of hepatotoxicity.
• Discontinue Flutamide immediately if symptoms of liver damage (e.g., jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain) appear.

🤒 Common Side Effects

• Hot flashes (common in patients undergoing androgen blockade)
• Breast tenderness or gynecomastia (swelling of breast tissue in men)
• Decreased libido (lowered sexual desire)
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Fatigue or general weakness
• Dizziness or headache
• Elevated liver enzymes

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Attention):

• Liver failure symptoms: Jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain
• Allergic reactions: Rash, swelling of the face, lips, or throat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Breathing problems or chest pain

🔄 Drug Interactions

Flutamide may interact with:

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) – May increase the effects of blood thinners.
• Theophylline – A drug used for respiratory diseases that may interact with Flutamide.
• Other liver enzyme-influencing medications, such as certain antifungals or antibiotics, may alter Flutamide’s effects.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

🤰 Use in Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Flutamide can cause serious birth defects or harm to a developing fetus.
• Lactation: Not recommended. Flutamide is excreted in breast milk, and it may harm a breastfeeding infant.

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store Flutamide at room temperature (20-25°C / 68-77°F)
• Keep in the original container and tightly closed to protect from moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.

📦 Packaging

Flutamide 250 mg tablets are typically:

• Supplied in blister packs or bottles
• Packaged in quantities of 30, 60, or 100 tablets, depending on the manufacturer.