Nilandron (Nilutamide)

What is Nilandron?

Nilandron/Anandron belongs to a class of medications called anti-androgens or anti-testosterones. (Testosterone is a natural hormone that helps prostate cancer grow and spread).

What is Nilandron used for?

Nilandron/Anandron is indicated for the treatment of prostate cancer in men. The medicine is generally used after removal of the testicles. It may also help reduce increased levels of testosterone in the body.

How does Nilandron work?

Nilandron/Anandron works by decreasing the levels of testosterone produced naturally by the body. This then prevents the binding of testosterone to the tumor cells and blocks spreading of cancer.

How to use Nilandron

Use Nilandron/Anandron in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Read the instruction leaflet very carefully before taking the drug. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

The medicine is usually taken once daily, with or without food. The medicine can be started on the day of the surgery or a day after the surgery. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day. It is recommended that you take the medicine at evenly spaced intervals.

Nilandron warnings and precautions

Do not take Nilandron/Anandron if you have allergies to the medicine (or any of its ingredients). Also, the doctor should be consulted before the medicine is taken by individuals who have liver or lung problems.

Do not drive, as there is reduced alertness when the person is on Nilandron/Anandron. It can cause intolerance, if you consume alcohol when you are on medication.

Get your testosterone levels checked on a regular basis, while you are on the dosing schedule of this medicine.

Women should not use Nilandron/Anandron. Pregnant women are advised to not even touch this medicine as it may affect an unborn baby.

What do I do if I have missed a Nilandron dose?

If you have missed a Nilandron/Anandron dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Nilandron overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Nilandron/Anandron, consult your doctor right away.

Nilandron interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Nilandron/Anandron when used in tandem with it. These include dietary supplements or herbal medicines, testosterone in the form of gel or patch, anabolic steroids, warfarin, phenytoin and theophylline.

The doctor should be informed of any kind of medication that the patient is already taking in order to avert any interference with the treatment. Also, the patient should not stop taking any medicine without consulting his/ her doctor.

Nilandron side effects

Side effects from Nilandron/Anandron include hives, swelling on the face, throat, lips or tongue; itching, skin rash, cough, nausea, stomach ache, loss of appetite, weakness, dark urine, loss of sexual interest, yellowing of skin, headache, hallucinations, chest pain, flu like symptoms, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking your Nilandron/Anandron dose, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Vision problems, constipation, hot flashes, impaired adaption to darkness, insomnia, painful urination, and upset stomach are some less serious side effects of Nilandron/Anandron.