The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in men, which helps produce seminal fluid that aids in the transportation and nourishment of the sperms. It is one of the most common cancer form among men. It has a staggering growth rate and is usually confined to the walls of the gland. Still, there are specific prostate cancer forms that spread rapidly and are aggressive. Therefore early detection and diagnosis while the cancer is still in the gland offer a better chance for successful prostate cancer treatment.
The cause of prostate cancer is yet unknown, but studies reveal that 1 in every 5 men who have attained the age of 50 have developed cancerous cells in the prostate. While most of them are in the form of small harmless tumors, a treatment in time will prevent the outbreak of this deadly disease.
Several factors, such as age, ethnicity, family history, sedentary lifestyle, or smoking, can aggravate prostate cancer risk. Treatment for prostate cancer starts from an early screening, blood test, biopsy followed by grading, and detecting the tumor stage. Multiple treatment forms, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, cryotherapy, and hormonal therapy, help treat prostate cancer. While some healthcare provides believe that drugs such as finasteride (Proscar ®) and dutasteride (Avodart ®) can prevent prostate cancer, others have found some effective prostate cancer medications with proven benefits.
It is one of the major components used in combination with prednisone for treating prostate cancer, which has spread to other parts of the body from the gland. It is categorized under androgen biosynthesis inhibitors group and works by reducing certain hormone levels in the body.
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION?
Abiraterone is available in tablet composition, which can be swallowed on an empty stomach with water. This component is present under the Zytiga brand and has to be consumed once or twice a day as per the doctor’s recommendation. Usually, abiraterone acetate is consumed 1 or 2 hours prior to the consumption of food. While having this medication, avoid crushing or chewing the pill. The drug must be continued as directed by a medical professional.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE BEFORE TAKING ABIRATERONE ACETATE
Before consuming Abiraterone Acetate
The medicine must be consumed as prescribed with a healthy diet unless the doctor lists any specific diet.
SIDE EFFECTS
Consumption of Abiraterone may cause certain side effects which must be informed to the doctor if severe.
STORAGE
The medication has to be stored in a tightly-closed container and kept away from children. It must be kept away from excess moisture and heat and stored under room temperature.
Enzalutamide available in the brand name Xtandi is an effective medication for treating prostate cancer and aids in lowering the level of testosterone in the body. The drug categorizes under androgen receptor inhibitors group. It effectively blocks the effects of androgen—male reproductive hormone for stopping and spreading the cancerous cells.
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION?
The medication is available in the form of a capsule that can be consumed orally with water. Usually, it is prescribed intake is once a day with or without food. It is best to maintain a regular timing for the consumption of enzalutamide. It must not be opened, chewed, or dissolved. Pregnant women must not handle the capsule. The dosage for the medication can decrease if the patient experiences severe side effects. In case the doctor prescribes other drugs such as triptorelin (Trelstar), goserelin (Zoladex), leuprolide (Eligard, Lupron), egarelix (Firmagon), or histrelin (Supprelin LA, Vantas), for treating prostate cancer, enzalutamide can go hand-in-hand with it.
SPECIAL PRECAUTION TO TAKE BEFORE TAKING ENZALUTAMIDE
Before consuming this drug
A regular normal diet and routine medication usage are preferred until advised by the doctor on a reduced dosage or a specific diet plan.
SIDE EFFECTS
Consumption of Enzalutamide may cause certain side effects which must be informed to the doctor if severe.
The medication must be stored in room temperature away from excess heat or moisture in a tight container. Children and pregnant women must be kept away from these capsules.
Available under the brand name of Erleada, Apalutamide is another component that can treat prostate cancer, which in its primitive stage, has not yet received any medication. It also works effectively on the cancer cells that have spread to the parts of the body. The drug is classified under androgen receptor inhibitors group. It works by blocking the path of androgen, thereby preventing cancerous cells’ growth and spreading.
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION?
Apalutamide is available in a tablet composition which must be consumed orally without chewing, crushing, or splitting with water, preferably once a day with or without food. The tablet must be consumed as prescribed by the doctor at the same time every day. The dosage can, however, be reduced in case the patient suffers from severe side effects.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE BEFORE TAKING APALUTAMIDE
Before consuming Apalutamide
A regular normal diet with a prescribed dosage of Apalutamide can help cure prostate cancer.
SIDE EFFECTS
Consumption of Apalutamide may cause certain side effects which must be informed to the doctor if severe.
It must be stored in a tight-capped container at room temperature. It is essential to keep it out of the reach of children. The medication must avoid excess moisture and heat.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancer forms in men after skin cancer. It can be successfully treated with proper diagnosis and medication. Although there are chances of relapse, effective follow-up care, and a balanced lifestyle can minimize its future occurrence.