Enzalutamide, a powerful androgen receptor inhibitor, has become a cornerstone in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. Marketed under the brand name Xtandi and widely available in enzalutamide capsules 40 mg, this medication is often prescribed at a total daily dose of enzalutamide 160 mg (typically four 40 mg capsules). While it’s been a life-extending game-changer for many, patients have reported some lesser-known — and frankly, unpleasant — side effects.

One such issue that rarely makes the spotlight is body odor. Yes, it’s true: some users of Enzalutamide have experienced changes in how they smell, which can be both distressing and socially uncomfortable. 

Understanding Enzalutamide’s Role in Prostate Cancer Treatment
Before we get into the side effects, it’s worth understanding how this medication works. Enzalutamide is prescribed to treat metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC). It works by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones like testosterone) that fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Unlike older drugs, Enzalutamide doesn't just stop the body from producing testosterone — it also prevents testosterone from binding to receptors in cancer cells, thus starving the tumor of its fuel. While it’s typically effective, the hormonal shifts it causes can have systemic effects — including some unexpected ones.

The Smell Factor: Why Odor Changes May Occur
Hormones play a huge role in how our bodies function — and how they smell. Think about puberty or menopause; those hormonal rollercoasters often come with noticeable changes in body odor. Enzalutamide, by altering hormone levels, can trigger a similar process.

Some patients on enzalutamide capsules 40 mg have reported:

Increased body odor, especially underarms and feet

A sour or metallic smell in sweat

Bad breath

Unpleasant-smelling urine

These odor changes may be due to a few factors:

Hormonal Imbalance: Blocking androgens can disturb the balance of bacteria on the skin, which in turn affects the smell of your sweat.

Metabolic Changes: Enzalutamide affects liver enzymes and metabolism. When your metabolism changes, so can your natural body chemistry — including odor.

Dehydration or Diet: Some side effects like diarrhea or appetite loss can change your hydration and nutrition status, both of which influence how you smell.

How Common Is This Side Effect?
While body odor is not one of the most frequently documented side effects in clinical trials, anecdotal reports on forums and support groups suggest it might be more common than data suggests. The issue is often underreported because it’s not considered medically serious — but anyone dealing with it knows how it can seriously affect confidence and quality of life.

What Can You Do About It?
If you're experiencing odor-related side effects while taking enzalutamide 160 mg, don't worry — you’re not alone, and there are some practical solutions:

1. Hydration Is Key
Drinking more water helps flush toxins out of your system and may reduce the intensity of body odors.

2. Upgrade Your Hygiene Routine
Switch to antibacterial soap, change clothes frequently, and consider clinical-strength deodorants.

3. Diet Adjustments
Avoid foods that contribute to body odor, such as red meat, onions, garlic, and processed foods. Increase intake of fresh vegetables and fruits.

4. Speak to Your Oncologist
Don’t suffer in silence. If the odor becomes too distressing or seems to coincide with other symptoms, bring it up during your next visit. It might be a sign of a dosage issue or something else that can be adjusted.

Finding Affordable Options: Enzalutamide Generic Price
Another issue for long-term users is cost. Enzalutamide is not a cheap medication. Brand-name Xtandi can be prohibitively expensive, especially for uninsured or underinsured patients.

The good news? Generic options are increasingly available. Enzalutamide generic price tends to be significantly lower than the brand version. Many pharmacy wholesalers now stock generic enzalutamide, allowing hospitals and pharmacies to pass the savings on to patients.

If you’re taking the standard enzalutamide 160 mg daily dose, it’s often delivered via four enzalutamide capsules 40 mg, and the Enzalutamide 40 mg price has started to decrease with the rise of generic competition.

Pro Tip:
Ask your pharmacy if they can source through a pharmacy wholesaler that offers discounts on prostate cancer medicines. You might be surprised at how much you can save over time.

Living With Side Effects: A Balancing Act
Like many potent medications, Enzalutamide is a double-edged sword. While it offers real hope in the fight against prostate cancer, the side effects — both common and uncommon — can take a toll.

Odor-related issues may seem minor compared to fatigue, hot flashes, or gynecomastia, but they affect a patient’s sense of identity and well-being. The emotional impact shouldn't be ignored. If you’re dealing with this, consider joining support communities where others share coping strategies and treatment tips.

Final Thoughts
Enzalutamide has changed the landscape of prostate cancer treatment for the better. But like any strong drug, it comes with its own baggage — sometimes including unwanted odors. The good news is, you can often manage these issues with a few tweaks to your routine and open conversations with your healthcare team.

And when it comes to the cost? Know your options. Look into enzalutamide generic price comparisons, consult your pharmacist about enzalutamide 40 mg price trends, and don’t hesitate to explore pharmacy wholesalers or patient assistance programs that cover prostate cancer medicines.

Whether it’s the scent of side effects or the cost of care, knowledge is power — and you’re not alone in this journey.

Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication or lifestyle.