From the Guidelines
Yes, apalutamide can cause a strange taste in some patients, although this side effect is not among the most common adverse reactions reported in clinical trials. Patients taking apalutamide for prostate cancer may experience altered taste sensations, including a metallic, bitter, or generally strange taste in the mouth. This side effect typically develops within the first few months of treatment and may persist throughout therapy. The taste changes occur because apalutamide and its metabolites can be secreted in saliva and directly affect taste receptors. Additionally, the medication may alter taste perception through systemic effects on neural pathways involved in taste sensation.
Common Adverse Reactions
Some of the common adverse reactions associated with apalutamide include:
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Hypertension
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Arthralgia
- Falls
Management of Taste Disturbances
If you experience significant taste disturbances while taking apalutamide, discuss this with your healthcare provider, but don't stop taking the medication without consultation. Sometimes these taste changes diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication, and maintaining good oral hygiene may help minimize the effect. According to the most recent study 1, apalutamide has been shown to improve overall survival in patients with metastatic noncastrate prostate cancer, with a 35% reduction in risk of death. However, the study does not specifically mention taste disturbances as a common adverse reaction.
Quality of Life
It's essential to weigh the benefits of apalutamide against its potential side effects, including taste disturbances. The medication has been shown to improve radiographic progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with metastatic noncastrate prostate cancer, which can significantly impact quality of life 1. If you're experiencing taste disturbances or other adverse reactions, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
From the Research
Apalutamide and Strange Taste
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that apalutamide causes a strange taste 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies primarily focus on the treatment of prostate cancer, skin rash as a common adverse event, and the management of apalutamide-related rash 2, 6.
- One study discusses the administration of apalutamide in aqueous food vehicles, such as applesauce, yogurt, orange juice, and green tea, but does not mention any effects on taste 3.
- The other studies examine the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of apalutamide in patients with prostate cancer, but do not report any instances of strange taste as an adverse event 4, 5.