Eulexin Description

Eulexin is an anti-androgen (anti-testosterone) medication that is prescribed with a luteinizing hormone-releasing agonist as part of the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. Eulexin or the generic alternative Flutamide may also be prescribed on its own to treat prostate cancer in men for whom LHRH analogues or surgery are not suitable. In this case, Eulexin is taken for an extended period of time to reduce the symptoms of the cancer. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Eulexin and LHRH Work Together

Taking Eulexin and the LHRH agonist together tells the pituitary gland to stop producing luteinizing hormone. In men, this hormone stimulates the testicles to release testosterone. The LHRH agonist does not have any direct effect on the cancer, only the testicles. The resulting lack of testosterone interferes with stimulating cancer cell growth and Eulexin blocks the action of the remaining testosterone.

Conditions Treated by Eulexin

Prostate cancer is a relatively common form of cancer that is seen in men. It affects the prostate, a doughnut shaped gland that encircles the urethra. In many cases, this type of cancer is highly treatable and it is usually confined to the area of the prostate. Dietary fat, particularly animal fat from red meat may be a factor in developing prostate cancer as it may boost male hormone levels.

A man’s prostate can become larger as he ages, pressing on the urethra or bladder and causing some difficulty urinating. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and is not cancerous. Prostate cancer is slow growing and symptoms may not be noticed for some time. During a routine physical exam, your doctor may examine your prostate to check that the gland is not enlarged. If you are concerned about developing prostate cancer, you should ask your doctor about PSA testing.

Before Eulexin is Prescribed

You should not drink alcohol while undergoing treatment with Eulexin, as this may increase the risk of liver problems. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies and list all over-the-counter and Rx drugs you currently take or use so your doctor can determine if Eulexin is the right medication for you.

Eulexin Precautions and Proper Use

Flutamide should not be used by a woman or child; it can cause birth defects if a woman is exposed to this medicine during pregnancy. Keep all medications stored out of children’s reach and never share meds with anyone else.

Call your doctor at once if you have upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice as Eulexin can cause serious liver problems.

Possible Side Effects of Eulexin

• Diminished sex drive
• Tiredness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Drugs Similar to Eulexin

• Lupron Depot Kit
• Casodex
• Zytiga