Proscant

Proscant Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Proscant is a brand name. Its generic name is Flutamide.

Introduction

Proscant is an oral synthetic, non-steroidal antiandrogen used in the treatment of prostate cancer and hyperandrogenic conditions. It has a number of trade names, including Eulexin and Flutamid.

Uses for

Proscant is used in the treatment of prostate cancer, hirsutism, and benign prostatic hyperplasia, where it helps block the action of androgens, such as testosterone, which can cause or worsen these conditions. It is also used in combination with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog for the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Proscant works by binding to and blocking androgen receptors, thus preventing androgens from binding to these receptors and exerting their effects. This prevents the action of hormones like testosterone, which can cause prostate cancer to grow.

How Long Does it Take to Work

Proscant typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to start working properly. The full effects of the medication may take up to 6 months to become apparent.

Absorption

Proscant is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract with peak plasma concentrations reached 1 to 4 hours after administration. The bioavailability of the drug is about 98%.

Route of Elimination

Proscant is extensively metabolized, both by sulfation and glucuronidation in the liver. The metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and feces. The elimination half-life is approximately 6 hours.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of Proscant in adults is 250mg to 500mg three times a day. In cases of metastatic prostate cancer, the recommended dosage is 750mg to 1500mg per day.

Administration

Proscant is administered orally in tablet form. It should be taken with food, preferably a fat-rich meal, to increase absorption. Tablets should not be crushed or broken.

Side Effect

Common side effects of Proscant include impotence, breast tenderness or enlargement, nausea, vomiting, decreased libido, headache, and hot flashes. Rarely, Proscant may cause jaundice, hepatotoxicity, and gynecomastia (breast enlargement in males).

Toxicity

Proscant is generally well tolerated with few serious side effects. However, high doses and long-term use may increase the risk of hepatotoxicity. Patients should be monitored for signs of liver toxicity. If any signs or symptoms of liver damage occur, the medication should be stopped immediately.

Precaution

It is important to inform your physician and pharmacist of any medications you are currently taking or plan to take to prevent potential drug interactions. Also be aware that certain conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and liver or kidney problems may alter your sensitivity to Proscant.

Interaction

Proscant may interact with other medications such as ketoconazole, spironolactone, and ampicillin. Therefore, it is important to inform your physician and pharmacist of any medications you are currently taking or plan to take to prevent potential drug interactions.

Disease Interaction

Proscant may interact with certain medical conditions. Patients with liver or kidney disease should use Proscant with caution. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any existing or past health conditions prior to taking Proscant.

Drug Interaction

Medicines such as warfarin, ketoconazole, and spironolactone may interact with Proscant. Be sure to inform your doctor and pharmacist of any medications that you are taking or plan to take in order to avoid any potential drug interaction.

Food Interaction

Proscant should be taken with a fat-rich meal such as a cheese sandwich or yogurt to increase absorption. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.

Pregnancy Use

Proscant should not be taken by pregnant women as it could cause harm to the fetus. Women of child bearing age should take appropriate measures to prevent pregnancy during treatment with Proscant.

Lactation Use

It is not recommended to use Proscant when breastfeeding as it may be transferred in breast milk and may harm the baby. Women of child bearing age should take appropriate measures to prevent pregnancy during treatment with Proscant.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of Proscant may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and drowsiness. If any of these symptoms occur, the person should seek immediate medical attention.

Contraindication

Patients who are pregnant or have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or hypersensitivity to Proscant should not take this medication. There are potential drug interactions with some antibiotics, antifungals, and anticoagulants, so be sure to inform your doctor and pharmacist of any medications you are currently taking or plan to take while taking Proscant.

Use Direction

It is important to take Proscant exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If a dose is missed, take the missed dose as soon as possible. Do not take two doses at once, and do not take more than the prescribed dose. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor first.

Storage Condition

Proscant should be stored at room temperature, in an airtight container, and away from light, moisture, and heat. Do not keep Proscant for longer than 6 months.

Volume of Distribution

The apparent volume of distribution of Proscant in humans is approximately 200 liters.

Half Life

Proscant has a half-life of approximately 6 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Proscant in humans is approximately 25 ml/min.

Here you find in details version of Proscant

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Proscant

What is Proscant?

Proscant is a non-steroidal antiandrogen medication that is used to treat certain prostate cancer in men.

How does Proscant work?

Proscant works by blocking testosterone from attaching to androgen receptors and, in turn, stops testosterone from stimulating tumor cell growth. It is thought to work primarily by competing with testosterone and dihydrotestosterone for binding at androgen receptors.

What are the uses of Proscant?

Proscant is used to treat prostate cancer in conjunction with other traditional cancer treatments. It is also being studied for potential applications in other hormone-dependent medical conditions such as endometriosis and acne.

Who can take Proscant?

Proscant is approved to be taken by adult men 18 years and over who have an advanced form of prostate cancer. It should not be taken by women or children.

How is Proscant taken?

Proscant is available in the form of capsules. It is usually taken in combination with other prostate cancer treatments, such as surgery and radiation. It is usually taken three times a day, with meals.

What are the side effects of Proscant?

Common side effects of Proscant include weight loss, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and headaches. However, the most serious possible side effect are liver injury, so it is important to get regular blood tests to check for liver function.

Are there any interactions with Proscant?

You should always check with your doctor before taking any medications or herbal supplements, as some of them could interact with Proscant, such as barbituates, rifampin, and St. John's Wort. Additionally, alcohol can make some of the side effects from Proscant worse.

Does Proscant treat benign prostatic hyperplasia?

No, Proscant is not used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a common, noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is often treated with a combination of lifestyle changes and different types of medications.

Does Proscant cause hair loss?

Yes, hair loss is a common side effect reported with Proscant. However, it is usually temporary and is reversed once the medication is stopped.

Is Proscant available in generic form?

Yes, the generic name for Proscant capsules is flutamide. It is available in various strengths and compositions.

How long does it take for Proscant to start working?

Proscant works by blocking the effects of testosterone, so it may take several weeks or months for its effects to take place. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and continue taking Proscant even if you don't see immediate results. Your doctor may monitor you closely with regular blood tests.

Does Proscant cause weight gain?

No, weight gain is not a common side effect of Proscant. However, it is possible that weight loss may occur due to its other side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.

Can Proscant be used to treat endometriosis?

Yes, Proscant is being studied for potential applications in treating endometriosis. However, it is still under investigation and is currently not approved for use in this condition.

Are there any alternatives to Proscant?

Yes, there are several other medications which are used as alternatives to Proscant, such as bicalutamide, nilutamide, and cyproterone acetate. Your doctor can help you decide which medication would be best for you.

Will Proscant stop my cancer from growing?

Proscant is not a cure for prostate cancer. However, it can help slow the growth of the tumor by blocking testosterone from attaching to androgen receptors. It should be used in combination with other traditional cancer treatments such as surgery and radiation.

Can I still exercise and play sports while taking Proscant?

Yes, you can continue to participate in physical activity while taking Proscant. However, if you experience any new or worsening symptoms while exercising, such as dizziness or chest pain, you should stop and contact your doctor.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should follow while taking Proscant?

There are no specific dietary restrictions you should follow while taking Proscant. However, it is always wise to follow a well-balanced, nutritious diet to help manage your condition.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Proscant?

If you miss a dose of Proscant, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What should I do if I overdose on Proscant?

If you think you have taken too much Proscant, contact your doctor or local poison control center immediately. Overdose symptoms of Proscant include nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness.

Is Proscant safe to use during pregnancy?

No, Proscant should not be used during pregnancy. It can cause harm to a developing baby and can pass into breastmilk, so it is important for women to let their doctor know if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Proscant affect my fertility?

Yes, taking Proscant can affect fertility in men. It is important to talk to your doctor about possible fertility options if you hope to father a child in the future.

Does Proscant interact with other medications?

Yes, Proscant can interact with other medications. Make sure to discuss with your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid any potentially dangerous interactions.

What should I watch out for while taking Proscant?

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions while taking Proscant and to contact your doctor if you experience any new or worsening symptoms. Additionally, you should have regular blood tests to monitor your liver function while on this medication.

How long does it take for Proscant to be removed from the body?

It takes approximately 5 hours for Proscant to be completely eliminated from the body. However, it may take longer in some individuals.

Is Proscant safe for long-term use?

Proscant is generally safe for long-term use, however it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and have regular check-ups to monitor your liver function.

What else should I know about Proscant?

Proscant may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so it is important to not operate heavy machinery or drive while taking this medication. Additionally, it should not be taken with alcohol, as it can worsen some of the side effects.

Is there a generic version of Proscant?

Yes, the generic version of Proscant is called flutamide and is available in various strengths.

Can I take Proscant if I have liver disease?

Proscant can cause liver injury, so it is important to talk to your doctor if you have any pre-existing liver conditions. Your doctor can help determine if Proscant is the right medication for you.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking Proscant?

You should not suddenly stop taking Proscant without talking to your doctor. Sudden discontinuation of this medication may cause the cancer to start growing again. Your doctor may decrease the dose of the medication gradually to reduce the risk of side effects.

Does Proscant lower testosterone levels?

Yes, Proscant works by blocking testosterone from binding to androgen receptors. This can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels in the body.

Does Proscant help with acne?

Yes, Proscant is being studied for potential applications in treating certain types of acne. However, it is not currently approved for this use.

Can Proscant be taken with food?

Yes, Proscant can be taken with food. Taking the medication with food can help reduce the chance of stomach upset.

What should I do if I experience side effects from Proscant?

If you experience any side effects from taking Proscant, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may adjust the dosage or recommend alternative treatments.

Is Proscant safe to take with other cancer treatments?

Yes, Proscant is often used in combination with other cancer treatments. However, it is important to discuss all of your medications and treatments with your doctor in order to reduce any potential interactions.

How does Proscant compare to other prostate cancer medications?

Proscant is similar to bicalutamide, nilutamide, and cyproterone acetate in that it is a non-steroidal antiandrogen medication used to treat prostate cancer. However, each of these medications work differently and may be more or less effective depending on the individual.

Can Proscant cause hair growth?

No, Proscant does not cause hair growth. In fact, it is commonly associated with hair loss as one of its side effects. However, this is usually temporary and reversed once the medication is stopped.

Does Proscant cause fatigue?

Yes, fatigue is a common side effect reported with Proscant. If you experience this side effect, it is important to contact your doctor so that your dose can be adjusted, if necessary.