In a nutshell
This study reported the long-term effects on the health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) of apalutamide (Erleada) in combination with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in patients with non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC). The data showed that apalutamide plus ADT preserved HR-QoL in these patients.
Some background
Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is an aggressive form of PC that is no longer responsive to hormonal therapy such as androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT). ADT reduces the production of androgens (male sex hormones such as testosterone). Reducing these androgens prevents cancer cell growth. ADT is also associated with significant side effects such as reduced libido, decreased bone mineral density and muscle mass, and fatigue. These side effects reduce QoL in patients.
Apalutamide is an anti-androgen medication. It blocks testosterone from reaching PC cells. Apalutamide plus ADT improves outcomes like overall survival and lowers the risk of disease progression and spread in men with nmCRPC. However, the long-term effect of apalutamide plus ADT on the HR-QoL in patients with nmCRPC is still unknown.
Methods & findings
This study involved 1207 men with nmCRPC. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either apalutamide plus ADT (806) or placebo plus ADT (401). The average follow-up time was 52 months.
The quality of life-related to the patients' health (HR-QoL) was measured by patient questionnaires. The average time of treatment was 32.9 months for the apalutamide plus ADT group compared to 11.5 months for the placebo plus ADT group.
The apalutamide plus ADT group maintained favorable HR-QoL scores over time while placebo plus ADT HR-QoL scores declined after 1 year. Patients receiving apalutamide plus ADT were not affected by side effects, and fatigue did not increase over time.
The bottom line
This study concluded that apalutamide plus ADT preserved HR-QoL in patients with nmCRPC.
The fine print
This study was funded by Janssen, the manufacturer of apalutamide.
Published By :
European urology focus
Date :
Aug 31, 2021
