Eulexin® is a type of medication used in the treatment of prostate cancer. Labeled as a nonsteroidal antiandrogen, Eulexin® is the brand name for the medication flutamide. Available in capsule form, it is usually taken several times a day. Capsules are brown, and the medication itself is a sandy or brown color.
The medication acts by interfering with the male hormones produced in the body. These hormones, called androgens, contribute to the growth and spread of prostate cancer. As this medication interferes directly with components specific to this type of cancer, Eulexin® is generally prescribed when the cancer is still in its early stages and has not yet spread to other areas of the body. It is generally prescribed along with other types of medications and treatments, including radiation therapy.
Capsules are usually prescribed to be taken three times daily. Most medical professionals will prescribe the medication for a longer period of time than it will take for the active symptoms of the cancer to disappear, and they will stress that those taking it should not stop just because their symptoms are gone. It is often given alongside a form of radiation therapy and another drug called a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH). Both Eulexin® and LHRH control sex-based hormones in the body. Acting together, the two medications help the hormones that are naturally produced in the body act normally, as opposed to the irregular actions of cancer-producing cells.
Eulexin® acts on hormones, so many of the side effects involve other hormonal changes. Men may experience hot flashes similar to those women have during menopause. There may be instances of impotence and a loss of interest in sex as well as the development of enlarged breast tissue. Gastrointestinal conditions such as diarrhea, discolored urine and blood in the urine can also occur. These are generally not serious side effects and usually do not require a patient to stop taking the drug.
Other, more serious side effects include an allergic reaction that can manifest itself as swelling in the facial region and mouth or difficulty breathing. Abdominal pain, gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting and nausea, jaundice, and fatigue can result in ending the treatment with Eulexin®. In some individuals it has been found to cause liver damage, and the outward symptoms of liver disease should be reported to medical professionals immediately. Any side effects that are serious or persist for several days also should be examined by a medical professional.
