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Bicalutamide

David.J
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Hi, I was first diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago. The consultant said that the cancer was so low grade, I would be in my hundreds before it would become troublesome. In March 2021, after a routine MRI scan, the cancer had spread. I haven't had a grade for the cancer. I've opted for a prostatectomy, however, the hospital/consultant can't carry out the operation until September 2021. In the meantime I've been prescribed 50mg of bicalutmide. Is this acceptable practice? and will such a low dose be effective? I must admit to feeling a little sidetracked, probably because I'm 60 years old!! 

  • Hello David.J

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently been told that your prostate cancer has spread and that you now need some treatment. It's obviously a worrying time for you and it's understandable that you want to get as much information as possible. 

    Bicalutamide is a type of hormone drug that stops testosterone from reaching cancer cells. This can slow the growth of your cancer and may shrink it. As you won't be having your surgery for a couple of months yet, it makes sense that the Consultant would start you on some medication to help keep things under control. 

    Do you have a clinical nurse specialist that you can talk through your concerns? He/she would have a fuller picture of your diagnosis and be able to answer your questions. If not then I'd suggest giving our team of nurses a call. I'm sure they would be able to help with information, advice, and support that would give you some reassurance about things. If you'd like to talk to them they're back in the office after the bank holiday on 0808 800 4040 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). 

    I hope that you settle on the new medication and that there aren't too many side effects to manage. Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Hi Jenn,

    Thank you for getting in touch. I do have a cancer nurse specialist. She's very lovely and supportive, however, she is quite sceptical about the hormone treatment and says there is little evidence to support its effectiveness used alone. I think this is one of the main reasons I posted - viewpoints of others on that particular problem.

    Best wishes 

    David

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