What is Bicalutamide?
Bicalutamide is an oral, anti-androgen medication that works by blocking the effects of testosterone. Specifically, it’s a selective androgen receptor antagonist (AR).
It’s most commonly found under the brand name Casodex by AstraZeneca.
It’s often used in the treatment of prostate cancer in men, but its positive results in female pattern hair loss, have been noted in a few studies.
A 2025 study, found that bicalutamide reduced hair shedding and facial hypertrichosis, in comparison to groups on other medications, such as spironolactone, or minoxidil.
Bicalutamide was initially used as a hair loss treatment in 2020, and although more studies need to be done, the results are promising.
The dosage can range from 12. We www to 50mg, three to seven days per week. Bicalutamide can also be delivered as mesotherapy—multiple tiny injections on the scalp—but further trials are required.
There may be side effects like increase in blood work in relation to liver function.
What types of hair loss can bicalutamide treat?
Bicalutamide can is ideal for women experiencing genetic hair loss:
Androgenetic alopecia (Female pattern hair loss)
Hirsutism
Mild to moderate hair loss
What are the bicalutamide contraindications?
Liver issues, including hepatitis
Blood clotting history
Diabetes
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Women trying to conceive (you should stop the medication 4.5 months earlier)
What are the possible bicalutamide side effects?
Transaminitis
Peripheral edema
GI complaints, nausea
Hot flashes
Dizziness
Breast pain
Changes in mood
Hepatotoxicity
As hair loss is a complex condition, and the long term effects of oral bicalutamide haven’t been sufficiently studied, a more holistic approach, with a combination of various treatments, may be required. When you are under bicalutamide medication, regular bloodwork is essential.
Get in touch with us today, to discuss your treatment options.
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