Generic Name: apalutamide
Pronunciation: er-LEE-da
Drug Class: Hormone Therapy Medications
Company: Janssen Therapeutics
Approval Status: Approved
Generic Version Available: No
Drug Indication
Erleada is an androgen receptor inhibitor approved for nonmetastatic prostate cancer that progresses despite low testosterone levels (known as castration resistant).
General Info
Testosterone and other male hormones (androgens) stimulate prostate cancer growth. To do so, they must bind to androgen receptors in prostate cells. Erleada blocks signals from androgen receptors, preventing them from triggering cancer proliferation. It should be combined with drugs such as GnRH agonists that reduce testosterone production, known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).
In the SPARTAN trial, Erleada plus androgen deprivation therapy delayed prostate cancer metastasis and improved progression-free survival compared to ADT alone.
Dosage
Dosing Info:
Erleada is taken as pill. The usual dose is four tablets taken together once daily with or without food.
Side Effects
Common side effects include fatigue, skin rash, hot flashes, diarrhea, nausea, decreased appetite, weight loss, joint pain, high blood pressure and swelling. Seizures are a less common but potentially serious side effect. Erleada has been associated with an increased risk of falling and bone fractures.
For More Info: https://www.erleada.com/
Co-Pay Program Info: http://www.janssenprescriptionassistance.com/
Patient Assistance Program Info: http://www.janssenprescriptionassistance.com/
Last Reviewed: September 19, 2018
