bicalutamide

Definition of bicalutamide

bicalutamide (BY-kuh-LOO-tuh-mide): A drug used with another drug to treat prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Bicalutamide binds to proteins called androgen receptors, which are found in some prostate cancer cells. These proteins bind to androgens (male hormones) and may cause cancer cells to grow. Bicalutamide blocks these proteins and may keep cancer cells from growing. It is a type of antiandrogen. Also called Casodex.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms