Enzalutamide 40 mg

Detailed Description — Enzalutamide 40 mg

Enzalutamide 40 mg is a prescription oral medication classified as an androgen receptor inhibitor. It is widely used in the management of prostate cancer, particularly in cases where the disease has become castration-resistant (continues to progress despite low testosterone levels) or has spread beyond the prostate gland.

Prostate cancer growth is strongly driven by androgens, such as testosterone. Even when testosterone levels are reduced through surgery or hormonal therapy, cancer cells may continue to grow by activating androgen receptors. Enzalutamide targets this mechanism directly, making it an important therapy in advanced stages of the disease.

Each capsule contains 40 mg of enzalutamide, and treatment typically involves multiple capsules taken together to reach the recommended daily dose.

How Enzalutamide Works

Enzalutamide 40 mg acts at several points in the androgen signaling pathway:

• Blocks androgen binding to androgen receptors

• Prevents androgen receptors from entering the cell nucleus

• Inhibits binding of androgen receptors to DNA

By disrupting these steps, enzalutamide prevents cancer cells from receiving growth signals, leading to slowed tumor progression and improved disease control.

Indications & Uses

Enzalutamide 40 mg is prescribed for:

• Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)

• Non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC)

• Metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) (in combination with other therapies)

It is usually used alongside androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) unless the patient has undergone surgical castration.

Dosage & Administration

• The usual recommended dose is 160 mg once daily, taken as four 40 mg capsules

• Can be taken with or without food

• Capsules should be swallowed whole with water

• Take the medicine at the same time each day for best results

Dose adjustments may be required in certain patients based on side effects or drug interactions. Always follow the oncologist’s instructions.

Benefits of Enzalutamide

• Slows progression of advanced prostate cancer

• Reduces risk of cancer spread

• Improves progression-free survival

• Delays the need for chemotherapy in some patients

• Oral administration offers convenience compared to injections

Possible Side Effects

Like all cancer therapies, enzalutamide may cause side effects. Not all patients experience them, and many are manageable with medical support.

Common side effects:

• Fatigue or weakness

• Hot flashes

• High blood pressure

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Decreased appetite

Less common but serious side effects:

• Seizures (rare but important risk)

• Falls and fractures

• Heart-related problems

• Cognitive changes (memory or concentration issues)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience seizures, severe dizziness, or loss of consciousness.

Warnings & Precautions

• Not intended for use in women or children

• Can increase the risk of seizures—use caution if you have a history of seizures or brain injury

• May interact with many medications (including blood thinners and anti-seizure drugs)

• Blood pressure should be monitored regularly

• Effective contraception is advised if there is a possibility of partner pregnancy

Always inform your doctor about all medicines and supplements you are taking.

Drug Interactions

Enzalutamide 40 mg can affect enzymes involved in drug metabolism, which may reduce or increase the effects of other medicines. Common interaction concerns include:

• Anticoagulants

• Anti-epileptic drugs

• Certain heart and psychiatric medications

Medical supervision is essential to manage these interactions safely.

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (below 30°C)

• Keep capsules in original packaging

• Protect from moisture and heat

• Keep out of reach of children

External Reference

For detailed clinical and prescribing information, visit:
🔗 https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/enzalutamide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Enzalutamide 40 mg used for?
It is used to treat advanced and metastatic prostate cancer by blocking androgen receptor signaling.

2. How many capsules should I take daily?
Most patients take four 40 mg capsules (160 mg total) once daily, unless otherwise directed by their doctor.

3. Can Enzalutamide cure prostate cancer?
No. It does not cure cancer, but it helps control disease progression and improve survival.

4. Can I take Enzalutamide with food?
Yes, it can be taken with or without food.

5. Is Enzalutamide chemotherapy?
No. It is a hormonal targeted therapy, not traditional chemotherapy.

6. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day. Do not double the dose the next day.

7. How long will I need to take Enzalutamide?
Treatment duration depends on response and tolerance. Many patients take it long-term under oncologist supervision.