Apalutamide: Androgen Receptor Inhibitor for Prostate Cancer
Apalutamide is a potent next-generation non-steroidal androgen receptor (AR) inhibitor. It is specifically designed for the treatment of certain types of prostate cancer.
The drug works by blocking the binding of androgens to the androgen receptor, inhibiting nuclear translocation, and preventing DNA binding. This effectively halts the growth of cancer cells. On Unifarm, you can find details regarding original medications (such as Erleada) containing this active ingredient.
Indications
- Non-Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (nmCRPC): For adult men at high risk of developing metastases.
- Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer (mCSPC): In combination with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).
Dosage and administration
The medication is taken orally once daily, with or without food.
Standard Regimen:
- Recommended Dose: 240 mg (typically four 60 mg tablets) administered once daily.
- Administration: Tablets should be swallowed whole with water.
Patients should also receive a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analog concurrently or should have had a bilateral orchiectomy. Dosage modifications may be required based on toxicity.
- Hypersensitivity to Apalutamide.
- Women who are or may become pregnant (strictly indicated for men).
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment (requires caution).
Monitoring for skin reactions and fall risk is recommended during therapy. Common adverse reactions include:
- General: Fatigue, hot flushes.
- Dermatologic: Skin rash (maculopapular), pruritus.
- Musculoskeletal: Fractures, falls, arthralgia.
- Cardiovascular: Hypertension.
- Metabolic: Weight loss, decreased appetite.
- Other: Hypothyroidism, rare instances of seizures.
