Eulexin

Eulexin

     * Generic Name: flutamide
     * Brand Name: Eulexin


     * What is flutamide (Eulexin)?
     * What are the possible side effects of flutamide (Eulexin)?
     * What is the most important information I should know about
       flutamide (Eulexin)?
     * What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
       flutamide (Eulexin)?
     * How should I take flutamide (Eulexin)?
     * What happens if I miss a dose (Eulexin)?
     * What happens if I overdose (Eulexin)?
     * What should I avoid while taking flutamide (Eulexin)?
     * What other drugs will affect flutamide (Eulexin)?
     * Where can I get more information (Eulexin)?

What is flutamide (Eulexin)?

   Flutamide is an antiandrogen. It works in the body to prevent the
   actions of androgens (male hormones).

   Flutamide is used together with another hormone to treat prostate
   cancer.

   Flutamide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication
   guide.

What are the possible side effects of flutamide (Eulexin)?

   Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:
   hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or
   throat.

   Flutamide can cause serious liver problems. Call your doctor at once if
   you have:
     * nausea, upper stomach pain, loss of appetite;
     * itching, tired feeling, flu-like symptoms;
     * dark urine, clay-colored stools; or
     * jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

   Common side effects may include:
     * breast swelling or tenderness;
     * hot flashes;
     * vomiting, diarrhea; or
     * impotence, loss of interest in sex.

   This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call
   your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side
   effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about flutamide
(Eulexin)?

   Flutamide can cause serious liver problems. Call your doctor at once if
   you have upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite,
   dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or
   eyes).

   You will need frequent blood tests to check your liver function while
   you are taking flutamide.

   Eulexin Patient Information including How Should I Take
   Prostate Cancer Symptoms, Tests, Treatments

   Prostate Cancer Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Medical Illustrations of the Prostate Image Collection
   Men's Health: Essential Screening Tests Every Man Needs

   Men's Screening Tests Slideshow

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking flutamide
(Eulexin)?

   You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to flutamide.

   Flutamide should never be taken by a woman or a child.

   Although flutamide is not for use by women, this medicine can cause
   birth defects if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy.

   To make sure flutamide is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
     * liver disease;
     * a genetic enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate
       dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
     * hemoglobin M disease;
     * if you smoke; or
     * if you also take a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin,
       Jantoven).

How should I take flutamide (Eulexin)?

   Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this
   medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

   Flutamide is usually taken every 8 hours. Follow your doctor's
   instructions.

   Call your doctor if you have severe or ongoing diarrhea. Your doctor
   may recommend an anti-diarrhea medicine.

   Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking flutamide. Your doctor may
   recommend a special diet to help prevent diarrhea.

   While using flutamide, you may need frequent blood tests.

   Flutamide is given as part of a combination prostate cancer
   treatment with another medicine called a luteinizing
   (LOO-tee-in-ize-ing) hormone-releasing hormone, or LHRH. These
   medicines prevent the testicles from producing testosterone.

   You should not stop using flutamide suddenly. Stopping suddenly may
   make your condition worse.

   Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

   Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets
   provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any
   questions.

What happens if I miss a dose (Eulexin)?

   Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if
   it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra
   medicine to make up the missed dose.

   Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your
   LHRH injection.

What happens if I overdose (Eulexin)?

   Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at
   1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking flutamide (Eulexin)?

   To help prevent diarrhea, avoid dairy products such as milk, cheese,
   and yogurt. Do not use laxatives while taking flutamide.

   This medicine can pass into body fluids (urine, feces, vomit).
   Caregivers should wear rubber gloves while cleaning up a patient's body
   fluids, handling contaminated trash or laundry or changing diapers.
   Wash hands before and after removing gloves. Wash soiled clothing and
   linens separately from other laundry.

What other drugs will affect flutamide (Eulexin)?

   Other drugs may interact with flutamide, including prescription and
   over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of
   your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any
   medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information (Eulexin)?

   Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about flutamide.

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