Keytruda vs Xtandi
A side-by-side look at two oncology medications advertised on TV. Informational only — not medical advice.
| US Keytruda | US Xtandi | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | pembrolizumab | enzalutamide |
| Drug class | PD-1 Inhibitor (Immunotherapy) | Androgen Receptor Inhibitor |
| Treats | Multiple cancers | Prostate cancer |
| Category | Oncology | Oncology |
| Manufacturer | Merck | Astellas/Pfizer |
| Year approved | 2014 | 2012 |
| FDA warning | Moderate warnings | Moderate warnings |
| Est. TV ad spend | $260M | $90M |
| Common side effects | Immune-related side effects, Fatigue, Rash, Diarrhea | Fatigue, Hot flashes, High blood pressure, Falls |
Frequently asked questions
Is Keytruda or Xtandi better?
Neither is universally "better." Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and Xtandi (enzalutamide) are both used for oncology, but the right choice depends on your medical history, insurance and your doctor's guidance. This comparison is informational only.
What's the difference between Keytruda and Xtandi?
Keytruda is a PD-1 Inhibitor (Immunotherapy) made by Merck, while Xtandi is a Androgen Receptor Inhibitor made by Astellas/Pfizer. See the table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
Which one spends more on TV ads?
Keytruda has the larger estimated TV advertising budget of the two.