Enzalutamide is a medication used to treat prostate cancer, specifically a type known as metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Let's break down what this means and how enzalutamide works in simple terms.
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that affects the prostate gland in men. It typically grows slowly and initially responds well to treatments like surgery or radiation. However, in some cases, the cancer can spread beyond the prostate to other parts of the body, such as the bones or lymph nodes. When this happens, it's called metastatic prostate cancer.
Castration-resistant prostate cancer means that the cancer is no longer responding to treatments that lower the levels of male hormones (androgens) in the body, such as testosterone. Despite these treatments, the cancer continues to grow and spread.
This is where enzalutamide comes into play. Enzalutamide is a type of medication known as an androgen receptor inhibitor. In simpler terms, it works by blocking the effects of male hormones like testosterone on prostate cancer cells.
You can think of prostate cancer cells as having locks, and male hormones like testosterone as the keys that unlock these cells and make them grow. Enzalutamide acts like a key blocker. It attaches to the locks on the prostate cancer cells, preventing the male hormones from attaching and activating them. This helps slow down the growth of the cancer and may even shrink the tumors.
Enzalutamide is usually taken in the form of a pill, typically once a day. It's essential to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and take the medication exactly as prescribed.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist
Enzalutamide
Enzalutamide is like a special key that helps in treating prostate cancer. Imagine prostate cancer cells as having locks, and male hormones like testosterone as the keys that make them grow. Enzalutamide acts as a key blocker. It attaches to the locks on the prostate cancer cells, preventing the male hormones from attaching and activating them. This helps slow down the growth of the cancer and may even shrink the tumors. So, Enzalutamide works by blocking the effects of male hormones on prostate cancer cells, helping to fight the disease.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist