✅ Enzalutamide 40 mg Capsule: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Prostate Cancer Treatment

What is Enzalutamide?

Enzalutamide is a medication primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as androgen receptor inhibitors, which work by blocking the effects of male hormones (androgens) on prostate cancer cells, thereby slowing down the growth and spread of cancer.

✅ Indications (Uses)

Enzalutamide is prescribed for adult men to treat certain types of prostate cancer:

• Cancer has spread to other parts of the body
• No longer responds to medical or surgical testosterone suppression

⚙️ Mechanism of Action

Enzalutamide works by targeting and blocking androgen receptors in prostate cancer cells:

• Prevents testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) from binding to cancer cells
• Inhibits androgen receptor nuclear translocation and DNA binding
• Suppresses the growth of prostate tumors that depend on androgens for survival

🕒 Dosage & Administration

💊 Standard Adult Dose:

• 160 mg orally once daily (usually 4 × 40 mg capsules)
• Can be taken with or without food
• Do not crush, chew, or open capsules

Always follow your doctor’s exact prescription. Dosage may be adjusted based on tolerance or side effects.

⚠️ Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue
• Back pain
• Hot flashes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Joint pain
• Headache
• Dizziness

Serious or Less Common Side Effects:

• Seizures (rare but serious – occurs in <1%)
• Falls or fractures
• Liver enzyme elevations
• Cognitive or mood changes

Patients should be monitored regularly for blood pressure, seizure risk, and liver function.

🛑 Warnings & Precautions

• Seizure Risk: Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures, brain injury, or stroke.
• Pregnancy Risk Category X: Contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant – can cause fetal harm.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness, cognitive issues, or seizures.
• Caution in patients with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or hepatic impairment.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Enzalutamide is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and moderate CYP2C9/2C19 inducer.

May reduce efficacy of:

• Warfarin
• Clopidogrel
• Midazolam
• Oral contraceptives
• Many other CYP3A4 substrates

📦 Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F)
• Protect from moisture and heat
• Keep out of reach of children and pets