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Abiraterone Acetate or Enzalutamide

National Cancer Institute, Naples · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Abiraterone acetate inhibits CYP17A1 to block androgen synthesis, while enzalutamide antagonizes the androgen receptor, both reducing androgen-driven prostate cancer growth.

Abiraterone acetate inhibits CYP17A1 to block androgen synthesis, while enzalutamide antagonizes the androgen receptor, both reducing androgen-driven prostate cancer growth. Used for Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), Non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC).

At a glance

Generic nameAbiraterone Acetate or Enzalutamide
SponsorNational Cancer Institute, Naples
Drug classAndrogen synthesis inhibitor (abiraterone) / Androgen receptor antagonist (enzalutamide)
TargetCYP17A1 (abiraterone) / Androgen receptor (enzalutamide)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Abiraterone acetate is a prodrug that inhibits 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17A1), a key enzyme in testosterone and DHT synthesis, thereby depleting intratumoral androgens. Enzalutamide is an androgen receptor antagonist that blocks AR signaling downstream. Together or individually, these agents suppress the androgen axis critical for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) progression.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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