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APALUTAMIDE
This page contains brief details about the drug apalutamide, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Apalutamide is an anticancer drug in the androgen receptor inhibitors class of medications. The FDA approved the medicine for its medical use on September 17, 2019.
Mechanism of Action of Apalutamide
Apalutamide functions as a selective inhibitor of the androgen receptor (AR), binding directly to its binding domain. This action inhibits protein transportation into the nucleus, DNA binding, and androgen receptor-mediated transcription. Consequently, treatment with Apalutamide curbs cancer cell proliferation while promoting cell death, exhibiting potent anticancer activity.
Uses of Apalutamide
It is prescribed for patients with specific types of prostate cancer that have metastasized to other areas of the body and continue to respond to therapies that lower testosterone levels, either through medication or surgery. It is also used for patients whose cancer has not spread beyond the prostate and no longer responds to treatments that lower testosterone levels.
Apalutamide Drug administaration and Dosage available
Apalutamide is administered orally. Follow your physician’s instructions regarding its intake. Typically, it is taken once daily, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day. Swallow the tablets whole; do not break, chew, or crush them. Do not discontinue Apalutamide without consulting your doctor.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Apalutamide
Warnings
Notify your physician if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, indigestion, signs of a heart attack, difficulty walking, or numbness in the face and body. Apalutamide is not recommended for use in pregnant women as it may harm the unborn baby. This medication can be taken with or without food. It may also lead to fertility issues in males. Men should refrain from fathering children or donating sperm during treatment and for three months after completion. Effective birth control methods should be utilized.
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, and herbal products. Some medications may interact with Apalutamide, potentially reducing its effectiveness and causing undesirable side effects.
Precautions
Common side effects of this medication include elevated cholesterol levels, heightened blood pressure, swelling in the lower legs or hands, rash and skin redness, decreased body weight and appetite, diarrhea and nausea, muscle pain, fatigue, and dizziness. More severe side effects may include anemia, heart disease, stroke or mini-stroke, elevated blood sugar levels, reduced white blood cell count, bone fractures, seizures and cerebrovascular events, severe skin reactions, and increased risk of falls.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur are bleeding in the stomach or intestines, blood vomiting, blood in stools, or dark-colored stools. The other side effects include hypotension, back pain, nausea, chest pain, vomiting, headache, speech, visual or hearing difficulties, numbness or lack of feeling, and problems with movement or balance.
Word Of Advice
Store Apalutamide in its original packaging at room temperature (20°C to 25°C), and keep the tablets out of reach of children and pets. If you miss a dose, do not double up on the forgotten dose. In case of an overdose or accidental ingestion, seek immediate medical advice from a hospital or doctor. Prior to treatment, inform your physician about any heart, kidney, liver, or lung disorders you may have.
Your doctor may prescribe additional medications unless you have undergone surgery to reduce testosterone levels in your body. Continue taking Apalutamide along with any other prescribed medications. If your male partner is using this medication and you are planning pregnancy, be aware that Apalutamide may cause birth defects. Use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. Your doctor will monitor your progress and the effects of the medication during regular appointments, so be sure to attend all scheduled visits. Do not discontinue the medication, even temporarily, without consulting your doctor first.
Frequently Asked Question
Decreased weight, loss of appetite, rash, tiredness, and dizziness are the few common side effects of apalutamide. Inform your doctor if you have had these side effects for a long time.
This medicine is not indicated to use in females. It is commonly used in men for treating certain types of prostate cancer.
Apalutamide is currently available only in tablet form. It should be taken by mouth. Take the tablet as prescribed by your physician. Do not chew or break the tablet. Swallow it as a whole.
Inform your physician about all the medical conditions you have and about all the medicines that you take. Do not plan for pregnancy if you are taking Apalutamide. Use effective birth control methods.
Yes, Apalutamide may cause infertility in certain males. Inform your healthcare professional before starting the treatment if you and your female partner are planning for pregnancy
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.