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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Erleada (Apalutamide) is a medication designed for the treatment of prostate cancer, particularly in cases where the disease is non-metastatic and resistant to traditional androgen deprivation therapy. As a potent androgen receptor inhibitor, Erleada works by blocking the effect of androgens (male hormones), which can promote the growth of prostate cancer cells. By inhibiting these receptors, Erleada helps to slow the progression of the disease and can be a crucial part of a comprehensive cancer care plan.
Before you buy Erleada medication, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Erleada cost.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C21H15F4N5O2S |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Approximately 100% |
Legal status | Prescription Drug |
Chemical Name | Apalutamide |
Elimination half-life | Approximately 3 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 240 mg (4 x 60 mg tablets daily) |
Pregnancy | Contraindicated; not intended for use in women |
Brands | Erleada |
Protein binding | Approximately 96% |
PubChem CID | 11624108 |
MedlinePlus | Not listed specifically for Erleada |
ChEBI | 142974 (Apalutamide) |
ATC code | L02BB05 |
DrugBank | DB12042 (Apalutamide) |
KEGG | D10409 (Apalutamide) |
Routes of administration | Oral |
Erleada is prescribed as an oral tablet and should be taken according to the directions provided by a healthcare professional. The typical dosage is 240 mg per day, administered as four 60 mg tablets taken once daily. It is recommended to swallow the tablets whole with water and to take them at the same time every day, with or without food.
The active ingredient in Erleada is apalutamide.
Inform your doctor about any allergic reactions to medications, especially apalutamide or any other components of Erleada.
Patients with severe liver or kidney disease should use Erleada with caution. Regular monitoring may be necessary.
Discuss your medical history thoroughly with your healthcare provider, including any issues related to heart disease, as Erleada can cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Erleada is not recommended for use by women, especially those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can harm the fetus or baby.
Erleada may interact with other medications, which can affect how it works or increase side effects. It is essential to discuss all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking with your healthcare provider. Key interactions include:
Erleada side effects may include:
What is Erleada used for?
Erleada is used to treat prostate cancer, specifically non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) and metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC).
How does Erleada work?
Erleada works by inhibiting the action of androgens (male hormones), such as testosterone, which can promote the growth of prostate cancer cells. It binds to androgen receptors and prevents them from activating cancer cell growth.
How long do you have to take Erleada?
The duration of Erleada treatment depends on individual patient response and disease progression. Patients typically take Erleada as long as it is effective and tolerated, and their healthcare provider will determine the exact duration.
Is Erleada chemotherapy?
No, Erleada is not chemotherapy. It is a type of hormone therapy known as an androgen receptor inhibitor, which works differently from chemotherapy drugs that directly kill rapidly dividing cells.
Does Erleada cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not a common side effect of Erleada. However, patients may experience other side effects, and it is important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.
Does Erleada kill cancer cells?
Erleada does not directly kill cancer cells. Instead, it prevents cancer cells from growing and spreading by blocking androgen receptors, thereby inhibiting the effects of androgens that fuel cancer growth.
How long does it take for Erleada to work?
The time it takes for Erleada to work can vary. Some patients may notice a response within a few weeks, but it can take several months to see significant effects. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is necessary to evaluate its effectiveness.
How long does Erleada stay in your system?
Erleada has a half-life of approximately 3 days. It generally takes about 15 days (5 half-lives) for the drug to be eliminated from the system after discontinuation.
How long does Erleada extend life?
Clinical studies have shown that Erleada can extend life for patients with prostate cancer. In the TITAN trial, for instance, Erleada combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) significantly improved overall survival in patients with mCSPC. The exact extension of life varies among individuals.
Why is Erleada so expensive?
Erleada is expensive due to factors including the cost of research and development, manufacturing, and the regulatory approval process. Additionally, pricing can be influenced by the value it provides in extending and improving quality of life for cancer patients.
What foods should you avoid when taking Erleada?
There are no specific foods that must be avoided while taking Erleada. However, patients should maintain a balanced diet and discuss any dietary concerns with their healthcare provider to ensure optimal health during treatment.
What drugs interact with Erleada?
Erleada can interact with several other medications. It can affect the metabolism of drugs that are substrates of CYP3A4, CYP2C19, and CYP2C9. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.