What is Erleada?
• Generic name: Apalutamide
• Brand name: Erleada
• Drug class: Androgen receptor inhibitors
Erleada is a prescription medicine used to treat certain types of prostate cancer. It works by blocking the effect of androgens (male hormones like testosterone), which prostate cancer cells need to grow. By cutting off this “fuel supply,” Erleada helps slow down or stop the growth of cancer.
FDA Approvals and Indications
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Erleada for:
- Non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC):
- Cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body but no longer responds to medical or surgical treatment that lowers testosterone.
- Metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC):
- Cancer that has spread but still responds to hormone therapy.
These approvals make Erleada an important treatment choice for many men fighting prostate cancer.
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Table of Contents
How Does Erleada Work?
Think of testosterone as the “fuel” that powers prostate cancer growth. Erleada blocks androgen receptors, meaning testosterone can’t attach and send signals to cancer cells. Without this signal, the cancer cells grow more slowly, or even die.
In simple words: Erleada starves cancer cells of the energy they need to multiply.
Erleada Dosage and Administration
• Recommended dose: 240 mg once daily (usually 4 tablets of 60 mg each)
• How to take: With or without food, at the same time each day
• With other treatment: Often combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or surgical castration
⚠ Important tip: Don’t stop taking Erleada unless your doctor advises. Missing doses or stopping suddenly may reduce its effectiveness.
Common Side Effects of Erleada
Like all medicines, Erleada has side effects. Some are mild, while others can be serious.
Most common side effects (10% or more):
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• High blood pressure
• Skin rash
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Falls and fractures (weaker bones)
Serious side effects:
• Seizures (rare but possible)
• Heart problems (stroke, heart attack risk)
• Severe allergic reactions
• Bone thinning and increased fracture risk
👉 Always tell your doctor if side effects become severe or affect your daily life.
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Warnings and Precautions
- Doctors take special care before prescribing Erleada because:
- Pregnancy risk: Not for women. Can cause harm to unborn babies.
- bone health: May weaken bones; calcium and vitamin D supplements may be needed.
- Seizure risk: Avoid activities like driving if you have seizure symptoms.
- Interactions: Erleada may interact with other medicines (like blood thinners, seizure drugs, or heart medicines).
Cost of Erleada
The cost of Erleada can be quite high. In the U.S., it may cost around $12,000–$13,000 per month without insurance.
- However, many patients can access:
- insurance coverage
- Manufacturer assistance programs
- Government health programs
Always check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about financial help options.
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Erleada vs. Other Prostate Cancer Drugs
Erleada is not the only medicine in this category. Other androgen receptor inhibitors include:
• Xtandi (enzalutamide)
• Nubeqa (darolutamide)
Comparison:
• Erleada is often preferred in non-metastatic prostate cancer.
• Nubeqa may cause fewer side effects like fatigue.
• Xtandi is effective but can interact with more medicines.
Your doctor will choose the best option based on your condition and overall health.
Lifestyle Tips While on Erleada
- Taking medicine is only one part of managing prostate cancer. Here are some simple lifestyle tips I recommend as a health blogger:
- Exercise regularly: Helps strengthen bones and reduce fatigue.
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated: Drink enough water daily.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: They can worsen side effects and harm your heart.
- Regular checkups: Monitor your PSA levels, bone health, and heart function.
FAQs About Erleada
- How long can you take Erleada?
You may take it for several years as long as it is effective and side effects are manageable. - Does Erleada cure prostate cancer?
No, it does not cure. It helps control and slow down cancer progression. - Can Erleada cause seizures?
Yes, but it’s rare. If you have a seizure, stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately. - Is Erleada chemotherapy?
No. It is a targeted hormonal therapy, not traditional chemotherapy. - Can diet and exercise help with side effects?
Yes. Healthy living can reduce fatigue, strengthen bones, and improve overall well-being.
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