Flutamide: Uses, Side Effects, and Alternatives for Prostate Cancer Treatment

When treating advanced prostate cancer, Flutamide, a non-steroidal anti-androgen that blocks testosterone from fueling cancer growth. Also known as Eulexin, it was once a standard part of hormone therapy for men with prostate cancer. But today, it’s rarely the first choice—because newer drugs work better and cause fewer side effects. Flutamide doesn’t kill cancer cells. Instead, it stops testosterone from binding to receptors in prostate tissue, slowing tumor growth. It’s usually taken with another drug that lowers testosterone production, like an LHRH agonist, to create what’s called combined androgen blockade.

But Flutamide comes with serious risks. Liver damage is the biggest concern—some patients develop jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, or even liver failure. That’s why regular blood tests are required while taking it. Other common side effects include hot flashes, breast swelling, diarrhea, and loss of libido. Men who’ve tried it often say the side effects made daily life harder than the cancer itself. And here’s the kicker: studies show bicalutamide, a next-generation anti-androgen. Also known as Casodex works just as well but with far less liver toxicity. Many doctors now start with bicalutamide instead, especially for older patients or those with existing liver issues.

Flutamide isn’t used alone anymore. It’s part of a bigger picture—hormone therapy for prostate cancer has evolved fast. Drugs like enzalutamide and apalutamide now target androgen receptors more precisely, with fewer side effects and better survival rates. Even newer options like abiraterone block testosterone production at the source. So while Flutamide still shows up in older treatment protocols, most modern guidelines recommend skipping it unless cost is the only factor. If you’re on Flutamide now, ask your doctor if switching to a safer alternative makes sense. You might feel better, have fewer lab visits, and still control the cancer just as well.

What you’ll find below are real patient experiences and clinical comparisons—not just theory. We’ve pulled together guides on how Flutamide stacks up against other anti-androgens, what liver damage looks like in practice, and how to recognize early warning signs before it’s too late. You’ll also see how newer drugs changed the game, and why some men still end up on Flutamide despite the risks. This isn’t a textbook. It’s what you need to know if you or someone you care about is facing this decision.