Overview

Apalutamide binds directly to the ligand-binding domain of the androgen receptor (AR), preventing androgen-induced receptor activation and the downstream transcription that drives prostate tumour growth. As a second-generation anti-androgen, it occupies the AR without triggering the receptor's transcriptional program, which is the central vulnerability of hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. PROSTAXEN supplies apalutamide 60 mg film-coated tablets in 30-tablet boxes for oral once-daily use. This article explains the molecular basis of apalutamide action and why uninterrupted AR suppression matters for patients with high-risk non-metastatic disease.

How It Works

Testosterone and its more potent metabolite dihydrotestosterone (DHT) normally bind the AR and reposition the receptor to the cell nucleus, where it recruits co-activators and switches on genes controlling cell-cycle progression. Apalutamide competes with these ligands at the same binding pocket but produces an inactive complex that cannot translocate effectively or recruit the transcription machinery. The result is reduced AR-dependent signalling even when circulating androgen levels are already low after medical or surgical castration. Because apalutamide does not require the receptor to be ligand-stimulated to exert an effect, it remains active against constitutively active AR variants. This dual coverage is why it is positioned for men whose PSA is rising despite castration.

Indications

Apalutamide is indicated for non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) in adults at high risk of metastasis, used together with continued androgen deprivation. It is also applied in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer in combination regimens. Selection rests on a rising PSA despite castrate-level testosterone and imaging that shows no distant spread for nmCRPC. Prescribers confirm adequate performance status and review seizure-risk factors before initiation. The 60 mg strength supports a fixed once-daily oral schedule that fits long-term outpatient management.

Dosage & Administration

One 60 mg tablet is taken orally once daily with or without food, at the same time each day. Continued androgen deprivation (LHRH analogue or orchiectomy) is required in patients not surgically castrated. Standard practice is to take apalutamide continuously, without dose interruption for short illness, unless toxicity dictates a hold. Tablets are swallowed whole and not crushed. A 30-tablet box covers one month of therapy at the labelled strength. Dose reductions are not standard; management of adverse events follows product labelling and local guidance.

Storage & Sourcing

Store below 30°C in the original blister, protected from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children. B2B buyers should verify the batch number, expiry, and the manufacturer's certificate of analysis on arrival. Because apalutamide is a prescription anti-cancer medicine, procurement follows controlled-distribution and import-licence requirements that vary by market. Reliable supply depends on forecasting patient cohorts and staging inventory to avoid gaps in continuous therapy.

FAQ

Q: Does apalutamide work if testosterone is already low? A: Yes. Apalutamide blocks the androgen receptor itself rather than lowering hormones, so it remains effective after castration has already reduced circulating androgens.

Q: Why is continuous dosing important for the mechanism? A: AR signalling recovers quickly once blockade lapses; uninterrupted daily occupancy maintains suppression of the transcription programme that drives tumour progression.

Q: Can the 60 mg tablet be split or crushed? A: No. The film-coated tablet is designed for whole-swallow delivery at a fixed 60 mg dose; splitting is not supported by the labelling.