Erleada 60mg Tablets

Manufacturer JANSSEN Active Ingredient Apalutamide(a pa LOO ta mide) Pronunciation a-pa-LOO-ta-mide
It is used to treat prostate cancer. If you have been given this drug for some other reason, talk with your doctor for more information. This drug may be used with other drugs to treat your health condition. If you are also taking other drugs, talk with your doctor about the risks and side effects that may happen.
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Drug Class
Androgen Receptor Inhibitor
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Pharmacologic Class
Androgen Receptor Inhibitor
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Pregnancy Category
Not available
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FDA Approved
Feb 2018
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Erleada is a medicine used to treat prostate cancer in men. It works by blocking the effects of male hormones (androgens) that help prostate cancer cells grow. This helps to slow down or stop the growth of the cancer.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication

To take this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your dose with or without food, and try to take it at the same time every day. Continue taking this medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you're feeling well.

Administration Instructions

Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, break, or crush it.
If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet whole, you can mix it with water. To do this:
1. Place your dose in a cup.
2. Add 2 teaspoons (10 mL) of plain water for a single tablet or 4 teaspoons (20 mL) for 4 tablets. Make sure the tablets are fully covered.
3. Wait 2 minutes for the tablets to break up and spread out, then stir.
4. Add 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of orange juice, applesauce, or plain water. Stir again, then swallow.
5. Rinse the cup with plain water and drink to ensure you take the entire dose.
Take the mixed medication immediately after preparation.
If you have a feeding tube, you can use this medication as directed by your healthcare provider. Be sure to flush the feeding tube after administering the medication.

Storage and Disposal

Store the medication at room temperature, protected from light and moisture.
Keep the medication in its original container, and do not remove the antimoisture cube or packet.
Store the medication in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.

Missing a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If you don't remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Take Erleada exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually four 60mg tablets once daily.
  • Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew, crush, or split them.
  • You can take Erleada with or without food.
  • Continue to receive your hormone therapy (GnRH analog injections) or maintain your orchiectomy as directed by your doctor.
  • Do not donate blood during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.
  • Use effective contraception if you are a male patient with a female partner of reproductive potential during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience seizures or dizziness.
  • Report any new or worsening side effects to your doctor immediately.
  • Maintain regular follow-up appointments and blood tests as advised by your doctor.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: 240 mg (four 60 mg tablets) orally once daily
Dose Range: 240 - 240 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC): 240 mg orally once daily, continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Patients should also receive a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analog concurrently or have had a bilateral orchiectomy.
metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC): 240 mg orally once daily, continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Patients should also receive a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analog concurrently or have had a bilateral orchiectomy.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No dose adjustment required.
Moderate: No dose adjustment required.
Severe: No dose adjustment required for mild to moderate renal impairment. No clinical studies have been conducted in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min) or end-stage renal disease. Monitor patients with severe renal impairment for adverse reactions.
Dialysis: Not available (no studies in patients on dialysis).

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No dose adjustment required (Child-Pugh A).
Moderate: No dose adjustment required (Child-Pugh B).
Severe: Not studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C). Avoid use in these patients.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Apalutamide is an androgen receptor (AR) inhibitor that binds directly to the ligand-binding domain of the AR. It inhibits AR nuclear translocation, inhibits DNA binding, and impedes AR-mediated transcription. A major metabolite, N-desmethyl apalutamide, also exhibits in vitro AR inhibitory activity and is approximately one-third as potent as apalutamide.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Not available (absolute bioavailability not determined, but high oral absorption)
Tmax: Approximately 2 hours (range 1 to 5 hours)
FoodEffect: No clinically significant effect of food on apalutamide exposure. Can be taken with or without food.

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 27 L (apalutamide) and 32 L (N-desmethyl apalutamide) at steady state
ProteinBinding: Approximately 96% (apalutamide) and 95% (N-desmethyl apalutamide) to plasma proteins, primarily albumin
CnssPenetration: Limited (animal studies suggest some penetration, but clinical significance in humans is not fully characterized)

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 3 days (apalutamide) and 8 days (N-desmethyl apalutamide) at steady state
Clearance: Not available (apparent clearance is 0.56 L/hr for apalutamide)
ExcretionRoute: Primarily fecal (65%), with a smaller portion renally excreted (24%)
Unchanged: Approximately 1.2% (apalutamide) and 2.7% (N-desmethyl apalutamide) of the dose excreted unchanged in urine
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Not precisely defined for clinical effect, but rapid suppression of PSA levels is observed.
PeakEffect: Steady-state plasma concentrations are reached after approximately 4 weeks of daily administration.
DurationOfAction: Continuous as long as treatment is maintained.

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:

Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Signs of high blood pressure: severe headache, dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision.
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, unusual thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath.
Signs of high potassium levels: irregular heartbeat, confusion, weakness, lightheadedness, dizziness, numbness or tingling, or shortness of breath.
Signs of low thyroid levels: constipation, sensitivity to cold, memory problems, mood changes, or abnormal burning, numbness, or tingling sensations.
Weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or thinking, balance problems, drooping on one side of the face, or blurred vision.
Chest pain or pressure.
Shortness of breath.
Seizures.
Swelling in the arms or legs.
Bone pain.
Signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat), which may be more likely due to low white blood cell counts.
New or worsening lung or breathing problems (e.g., cough, shortness of breath).
Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious conditions, which can be life-threatening. Seek medical help immediately if you experience red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in your mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands.

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects, although many people may not experience any or may only have mild symptoms. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:

Fatigue or weakness.
Joint pain.
Decreased appetite.
Weight loss.
Hot flashes.
Diarrhea.
* Upset stomach.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Seizures (e.g., convulsions, loss of consciousness, muscle stiffness)
  • Severe skin rash (e.g., widespread, blistering, peeling skin, painful sores in mouth or eyes)
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden severe headache, problems with vision or speech (signs of heart attack or stroke)
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure (e.g., severe headache, blurred vision)
  • Signs of liver problems (e.g., yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain, unusual tiredness)
  • Increased falls or feeling unsteady
  • Swelling in your arms or legs
  • Any new or worsening pain
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. This medication is not approved for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may harm the unborn baby or increase the risk of pregnancy loss. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss this with your doctor.
Potential interactions with other medications or health conditions. This medication may interact with other prescription or over-the-counter medications, natural products, or vitamins, which could affect its safety and efficacy. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health problems you have.
To ensure safe use, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your other medications and health conditions. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions you have with your doctor.

There is a risk of seizures associated with this medication, particularly if you have a history of brain blood vessel problems, take other medications that may increase the risk of seizures, or have previously experienced seizures, brain injury, stroke, or brain cancer. To minimize the risk of injury, avoid activities that could be hazardous if you were to lose consciousness. Discuss this risk with your doctor.

This medication may also increase your risk of falling, which can lead to serious complications such as fractures. Talk to your doctor about the potential risk of falls and fractures while taking this medication.

Regular blood pressure checks are crucial, as this medication can cause high blood pressure. Additionally, there is a risk of bleeding in the brain and blood vessel disease in the brain or heart, which can be life-threatening. If you have a history of high blood pressure, high blood sugar (diabetes), or high cholesterol or triglycerides, inform your doctor. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor.

This medication may also cause an increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Discuss this potential risk with your doctor. If you have diabetes, be aware that this medication may affect your blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor.

If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.

It is important to note that this medication is present in semen. Do not donate semen while taking this medication or for 3 months after your last dose. This medication may also affect fertility. Discuss this potential risk with your doctor.

If your partner may become pregnant, use effective birth control while taking this medication and for 3 months after your last dose. If your partner becomes pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. If your partner is already pregnant, use a condom during sexual activity to minimize the risk of exposure.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Symptoms of overdose are not well-established. In clinical trials, doses up to 480 mg/day were administered with no dose-limiting toxicities. Higher doses may increase the risk and severity of known adverse reactions such as rash, fatigue, falls, fractures, and seizures.

What to Do:

There is no specific antidote for Erleada overdose. In case of overdose, discontinue Erleada and initiate general supportive measures. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) for further guidance.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Strong CYP3A4 substrates (e.g., alfentanil, fentanyl, quinidine, warfarin, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, sirolimus, ergot alkaloids, pimozide, astemizole, terfenadine, cisapride, midazolam, triazolam, lovastatin, simvastatin, atorvastatin, sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, amiodarone, dronedarone, ivabradine, ranolazine, lurasidone, quetiapine, ticagrelor, apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran etexilate, digoxin, everolimus, irinotecan, lapatinib, nilotinib, sunitinib, tofacitinib, venetoclax, vinca alkaloids, carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, rifampin, St. John's Wort)
  • CYP2C9 substrates (e.g., warfarin, phenytoin)
  • CYP2C19 substrates (e.g., clopidogrel, omeprazole, diazepam)
  • P-gp substrates (e.g., digoxin, dabigatran etexilate)
  • BCRP substrates (e.g., rosuvastatin, sulfasalazine)
  • OATP1B1/OATP1B3 substrates (e.g., statins like atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin)
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Moderate Interactions

  • Moderate CYP3A4 substrates
  • Moderate CYP2C9 substrates
  • Moderate CYP2C19 substrates
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Minor Interactions

  • Not specifically listed, but caution with any drug metabolized by CYP enzymes or transporter systems that apalutamide induces.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

Rationale: To establish baseline and monitor response to therapy.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

Liver Function Tests (ALT, AST, Bilirubin)

Rationale: To assess baseline hepatic function, as liver enzyme elevations have been reported.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

Blood Pressure

Rationale: To establish baseline, as hypertension has been reported.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

Glucose and Lipids (e.g., total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides)

Rationale: To establish baseline, as metabolic changes have been reported.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Rationale: To assess baseline risk for ischemic heart disease and stroke.

Timing: Prior to initiation of treatment.

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Routine Monitoring

Serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

Frequency: Periodically (e.g., every 3 months or as clinically indicated)

Target: Decreasing levels indicate response.

Action Threshold: Rising PSA may indicate disease progression; clinical correlation needed.

Liver Function Tests (ALT, AST, Bilirubin)

Frequency: Monthly for the first 3 months of treatment, then periodically as clinically indicated.

Target: Within normal limits or stable.

Action Threshold: Elevations >3x ULN or >5x ULN may require dose interruption or discontinuation.

Blood Pressure

Frequency: Regularly (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly for first few months, then monthly)

Target: Controlled blood pressure.

Action Threshold: Hypertension requiring medical management or dose modification.

Glucose and Lipids

Frequency: Periodically (e.g., every 6-12 months or as clinically indicated)

Target: Within acceptable limits.

Action Threshold: Significant changes may require intervention.

Signs and Symptoms of Seizures

Frequency: Ongoing patient education and monitoring

Target: Absence of seizures.

Action Threshold: Occurrence of seizure requires immediate medical attention and treatment discontinuation.

Signs and Symptoms of Falls

Frequency: Ongoing patient education and monitoring

Target: Absence of falls.

Action Threshold: Increased frequency or severity of falls requires assessment.

Signs and Symptoms of Rash

Frequency: Ongoing patient education and monitoring

Target: Absence of severe rash.

Action Threshold: Severe rash (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) requires immediate medical attention and treatment discontinuation.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Seizures (e.g., loss of consciousness, convulsions, muscle rigidity)
  • Falls (e.g., dizziness, weakness, unsteadiness)
  • Rash (e.g., widespread, blistering, peeling skin, painful sores)
  • Cardiovascular events (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness/weakness on one side of body, slurred speech)
  • Hypertension (e.g., headache, dizziness, blurred vision)
  • Fatigue
  • Arthralgia (joint pain)
  • Hot flush
  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Hypothyroidism symptoms (e.g., fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Erleada is not indicated for use in women. It can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Based on its mechanism of action and animal studies, apalutamide may cause adverse developmental effects. Male patients with female partners of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: High risk of fetal harm (e.g., embryo-fetal toxicity, teratogenicity) based on animal data and mechanism of action.
Second Trimester: High risk of fetal harm.
Third Trimester: High risk of fetal harm.
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Lactation

Erleada is not indicated for use in women. It is unknown if apalutamide or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, Erleada should not be used by lactating women.

Infant Risk: High risk of serious adverse effects due to potential for hormonal disruption and other toxicities.
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Pediatric Use

The safety and efficacy of Erleada in pediatric patients have not been established. Erleada is not indicated for use in pediatric patients.

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Geriatric Use

No dose adjustment is required for geriatric patients. Of the total number of patients in clinical studies of Erleada, 75% were 65 years and older, and 33% were 75 years and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects. However, geriatric patients may be more susceptible to certain adverse reactions such as falls and fractures.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Apalutamide is an oral medication that must be taken consistently once daily. Emphasize adherence to patients.
  • Patients must continue concomitant GnRH analog therapy or have had a bilateral orchiectomy.
  • Counsel patients on the importance of reporting any new neurological symptoms, especially seizures, or severe skin reactions immediately.
  • Monitor for and manage cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, as these can be exacerbated.
  • Be aware of significant drug-drug interactions, particularly with CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 substrates, and P-gp/BCRP/OATP1B1/1B3 substrates. Review patient's concomitant medications carefully.
  • Patients should be advised about the risk of falls and fractures; consider bone health assessment and management.
  • Hypothyroidism has been reported; monitor thyroid function if clinically indicated.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Enzalutamide (Xtandi) - another androgen receptor inhibitor
  • Darolutamide (Nubeqa) - another androgen receptor inhibitor
  • Abiraterone acetate (Zytiga) - androgen biosynthesis inhibitor
  • Docetaxel (Taxotere) - chemotherapy
  • Cabazitaxel (Jevtana) - chemotherapy
  • Radium-223 dichloride (Xofigo) - alpha-emitting radiopharmaceutical (for bone metastases)
  • Sipuleucel-T (Provenge) - autologous cellular immunotherapy
  • Bicalutamide (Casodex) - older antiandrogen
  • Flutamide (Eulexin) - older antiandrogen
  • Nilutamide (Nilandron) - older antiandrogen
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: $12,000 - $15,000 per 30 tablets
Insurance Coverage: Specialty Tier (requires prior authorization, often subject to step therapy and quantity limits)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to consult with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the substance taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.