Erleada: A New Treatment For Patients With Non-Metastatic Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer
By: Alexandra “Xan” Oakley, PCRI Educational Writer
In February 2018, the FDA approved Erleada for the treatment of prostate cancer. Erleada is an oral medicine approved for nonmetastatic, hormone-resistant disease. Men who have a rising PSA, low testosterone, and clear scans should begin Erleada immediately. Phase 3 SPARTAN clinical trial data showed that ERLEADA™ delays the development of metastasis by over two years.
The side effects of Erleada are usually mild. The most common side effects are fatigue, high blood pressure, and rash. These are not all of the side effects, and taking Erleada doesn’t mean you will get all or even any of these side effects.
As of October 2018, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Erleada, announced a $0 co-pay program. This program is available for men with commercial or private health insurance and includes some healthcare plans available through state and federal healthcare exchanges. To qualify, you must enroll with the Janssen Carepath Savings Program card. Unfortunately, TRICARE, Veterans Administration, Medicare, and Medicaid are not eligible.
Men who need financial assistance with Erleada can visit www.Janssencarepath.com. Those without insurance can contact J&J Patient Assistance at 1-800-652-6227. The Patient Assistance Foundation also has funding for Erleada, and can be reached at 1-866-512-3861. Active and retired military can contact J&J Patient Assistance for a benefit investigation, to see what is covered and if prior authorization is required. If you have commercial or private insurance you can call a Janssen CarePath Care Coordinator at 1‑833‑ERLEADA (1‑833‑375‑3232). Janssen offers nurse support for Erleada, which is also found at www.Janssencarepath.com.
Erleada is an extremely important medical breakthrough for men with hormone-resistant prostate cancer. Erleada is very effective for delaying metastases. If you feel you are a candidate for Erleada, or if you have questions about possible future use of Erleada, talk to your doctor. Do not be afraid to ask questions, and ask your doctor for a more thorough explanation if there is anything you don’t understand. For more information or any assistance with your prostate cancer questions, you can contact PCRI and speak with one of our helpline counselors, free of charge, at 310-743-2116.