Nilutamide
Nilutamide is a nonsteroidal antiandrogen medication used in combination with surgical castration to treat metastatic prostate cancer. It works by blocking androgen receptors, preventing male hormones from stimulating cancer cell growth. This combination therapy is known as combined androgen blockade.
Nilutamide is an antiandrogen drug used with surgery to treat advanced prostate cancer by blocking male hormone effects on cancer cells.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L02BB02
- RxNorm
- 31805
- Generic
- Nilutamide
- Class
- atc-l02
- Brands
- Nilandron
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Nilutamide is indicated for metastatic prostate cancer as part of combined androgen blockade, used alongside bilateral orchiectomy (surgical removal of the testicles) to completely block androgen production and action.
Nilutamide competitively blocks androgen receptors in prostate cancer cells and target tissues. By preventing androgens like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone from binding to these receptors, it inhibits androgen-dependent cancer cell growth and proliferation.
Common side effects include visual disturbances (especially difficulty adapting to darkness), hot flashes, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Liver function monitoring is recommended as hepatotoxicity has been reported. Patients should be informed about potential respiratory symptoms and should avoid alcohol during treatment. Contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy