⚠️ IMPORTANT MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This article provides general information about Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) and generic abiraterone and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you experience severe side effects or a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy does not provide medical advice or treatment recommendations.
✓ Medically Reviewed by: Julia Kravtsova, PharmD
Head Pharmacist, QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy
Licensed in all 50 states | Specialty pharmacy expert
Last Updated: December 2025
Key Takeaways: Zytiga Generic (Abiraterone)
- Yes, generic Zytiga is available – Multiple FDA-approved generic abiraterone acetate options exist
- First generic approved: October 2018 (Hikma and Mylan)
- Generic manufacturers: Hikma, Mylan, MSN, Amneal, Qilu, Rising, Wockhardt, and others
- Same effectiveness: FDA-approved generics are bioequivalent to brand Zytiga
- Copay assistance available: QuickRx helps patients access savings programs for both brand and generic
- Need help? Call (917) 830-2525 for a free copay assistance consultation
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If you or a loved one has been prescribed Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) for prostate cancer treatment, you may be wondering: Is there a generic version available? The good news is yes—generic abiraterone acetate has been available in the United States since 2018, offering patients an alternative to the brand-name medication.
At QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy, we help prostate cancer patients navigate their medication options and access abiraterone copay assistance programs that may significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs—whether they’re taking brand Zytiga or generic abiraterone.
This comprehensive guide answers all your questions about generic Zytiga, including when it became available, which manufacturers make it, whether it’s as effective as the brand, and how to access copay assistance to help make treatment more affordable.
Is There a Generic for Zytiga?
Yes, generic Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) is available in the United States.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved multiple generic versions of abiraterone acetate tablets. These generics are therapeutically equivalent to brand-name Zytiga, meaning they contain the same active ingredient, work the same way in the body, and meet the same FDA quality and safety standards.
Generic abiraterone acetate is available in two strengths:
- 250 mg tablets – First generics approved October 2018
- 500 mg tablets – First generics approved December 2020
It’s important to note that Yonsa, another brand of abiraterone acetate made by Sun Pharmaceutical, is a different formulation (ultramicrosize/fine particle) and does not currently have a generic equivalent. Yonsa uses a different dosing regimen than Zytiga, so these products are not interchangeable.
When Did Generic Zytiga Become Available?
Understanding the timeline of generic abiraterone availability helps explain your options today:
Zytiga Patent and Generic History
- April 28, 2011: FDA originally approved brand Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)
- February 7, 2018: FDA expanded Zytiga’s indication to include metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mHCSPC)
- May 2019: U.S. Court of Appeals upheld a decision invalidating a key Johnson & Johnson patent on abiraterone acetate
- October 31, 2018: First generic abiraterone acetate 250 mg tablets approved (Hikma and Mylan)
- December 14, 2020: First generic abiraterone acetate 500 mg tablets approved (Mylan)
Since 2018, multiple pharmaceutical manufacturers have received FDA approval to produce generic abiraterone, increasing patient access and competition in the market.
Who Makes Generic Abiraterone Acetate?
Several pharmaceutical companies manufacture FDA-approved generic abiraterone acetate. According to FDA approval records, these include:
Generic Abiraterone 250 mg Manufacturers:
- Hikma – Approved October 31, 2018
- Mylan – Approved October 31, 2018
- Rising Pharmaceuticals – Approved February 25, 2019
- Wockhardt – Approved February 27, 2019
- MSN Pharmaceuticals – Approved July 10, 2019
- Qilu Pharmaceutical – Approved September 27, 2019
- Novugen – Approved January 5, 2022
Generic Abiraterone 500 mg Manufacturers:
- Mylan – Approved December 14, 2020
- Qilu Pharmaceutical – Approved June 25, 2021
- Novugen – Approved January 5, 2022
- Regcon Holdings – Approved March 23, 2023
- MSN Pharmaceuticals – Approved April 24, 2024
- Amneal Pharmaceuticals – Also manufactures generic abiraterone
Your pharmacy will typically dispense whichever generic manufacturer they have in stock. All FDA-approved generics meet the same quality standards and are considered therapeutically equivalent to brand Zytiga.
Generic Abiraterone vs Brand Zytiga: Is It the Same?
Many patients wonder whether generic abiraterone is as effective as brand-name Zytiga. The short answer: Yes, it is.
What Makes a Generic “Equivalent”?
For the FDA to approve a generic medication, the manufacturer must demonstrate that it is bioequivalent to the brand-name drug. This means:
- Same active ingredient: Generic abiraterone contains the same active pharmaceutical ingredient as Zytiga
- Same strength: Available in the same 250 mg and 500 mg doses
- Same dosage form: Oral tablets
- Same route of administration: Taken by mouth
- Same rate and extent of absorption: The drug enters your bloodstream at the same rate and to the same degree
The FDA assigns an “AB” rating to generics that meet these bioequivalence standards, indicating they can be substituted for the brand-name drug.
Differences Between Generic and Brand
While the active ingredient is identical, you may notice some minor differences:
- Appearance: Generic tablets may differ in color, shape, or markings
- Inactive ingredients: Fillers, binders, and dyes may vary (though these don’t affect how the drug works)
- Packaging: Generic packaging looks different from brand Zytiga
- Price: Generic abiraterone typically costs less than brand Zytiga
Important: Do NOT confuse generic abiraterone (equivalent to Zytiga) with Yonsa. Yonsa is a different formulation with different dosing requirements and is NOT interchangeable with Zytiga or its generics.
Copay Assistance for Zytiga and Generic Abiraterone
Even with generic options available, prostate cancer medications can still present significant out-of-pocket costs for patients. That’s where copay assistance programs can help.
💬 “Many patients don’t realize that financial assistance may be available for both brand and generic medications,” says Leah Thomas, Patient Navigator at QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy. “We work with each patient individually to understand their insurance situation and identify every possible savings opportunity. Our goal is to remove financial barriers so patients can focus on their health.”
Types of Assistance Available
Abiraterone copay assistance may come from several sources:
- Manufacturer programs: Some programs may help reduce costs for eligible patients
- Independent assistance programs: Various organizations offer disease-specific financial support
- Pharmacy savings programs: QuickRx works to find the most affordable options for each patient’s specific situation
Who May Qualify?
Eligibility for copay assistance varies by program, but many patients can benefit regardless of whether they take brand Zytiga or generic abiraterone. Contact QuickRx to discuss your specific situation—we’ll help determine what options may be available to you.
How QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy Can Help
At QuickRx, we understand that a prostate cancer diagnosis brings enough stress without worrying about medication costs. Our patient navigation team is dedicated to helping you access the medications you need at the most affordable price possible.
💬 “We handle everything for our patients,” explains Leah Thomas. “From the moment someone reaches out to us, we take care of the paperwork, coordinate with their doctor’s office, and navigate the insurance process on their behalf. We get to know each patient personally—they become like family to us.”
Our Services Include:
- Free copay assistance consultation: We’ll review your insurance and identify all available savings programs
- Benefits verification: We check what your insurance covers and what you may qualify for
- Enrollment assistance: We handle the application process for copay assistance programs
- Coordination with your doctor: We work directly with your healthcare provider’s office
- Ongoing support: Your dedicated patient navigator is always available to help
- Nationwide service: QuickRx is licensed in all 50 states
💬 “We treat every patient with compassion,” says Leah. “Cancer treatment is hard enough. When patients work with QuickRx, they know someone is in their corner, fighting to make sure cost isn’t a barrier to getting the care they need.”
Get Started Today
Ready to explore your options for Zytiga generic copay assistance? Contact QuickRx today:
- Call us: (917) 830-2525 (Main) or (800) 496-6111 (Toll-Free)
- Fill out our form: Abiraterone Copay Assistance Form
- Questions? Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions About Zytiga Generic
1. Is there a generic version of Zytiga available?
Yes, generic Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) has been available in the United States since October 2018. Multiple FDA-approved manufacturers produce generic abiraterone acetate tablets in both 250 mg and 500 mg strengths. These generics are therapeutically equivalent to brand Zytiga and meet the same FDA quality and safety standards.
2. Is generic abiraterone as effective as brand Zytiga?
Yes. The FDA requires generic medications to be bioequivalent to the brand-name drug, meaning they contain the same active ingredient, have the same strength, and work the same way in your body. Generic abiraterone acetate is rated “AB” by the FDA, indicating it can be safely substituted for brand Zytiga.
3. Who makes generic abiraterone acetate?
Several pharmaceutical companies manufacture FDA-approved generic abiraterone acetate, including Hikma, Mylan, MSN Pharmaceuticals, Amneal, Qilu, Rising Pharmaceuticals, Wockhardt, Novugen, and Regcon Holdings. Your pharmacy will dispense whichever manufacturer they have in stock—all are therapeutically equivalent.
4. When did generic Zytiga become available?
The first generic abiraterone acetate tablets (250 mg) were FDA-approved on October 31, 2018, from manufacturers Hikma and Mylan. Generic 500 mg tablets became available starting December 14, 2020. Since then, additional manufacturers have received FDA approval.
5. Is Yonsa the same as generic Zytiga?
No. While both contain abiraterone acetate, Yonsa is a different formulation (ultramicrosize/fine particle) made by Sun Pharmaceutical with different dosing requirements. Yonsa is NOT interchangeable with Zytiga or generic abiraterone. Additionally, there is no generic version of Yonsa currently available.
6. What is abiraterone acetate used for?
Abiraterone acetate is an oral medication used in combination with prednisone or prednisolone to treat prostate cancer. According to the FDA, it is approved for two main indications: metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mHCSPC). It works by blocking an enzyme (CYP17) needed to produce androgens that can fuel prostate cancer growth.
7. How should I take abiraterone acetate?
Abiraterone acetate must be taken on an empty stomach—at least two hours after eating and at least one hour before your next meal. Taking it with food significantly increases absorption and may cause unwanted side effects. The typical dose is 1,000 mg (two 500 mg tablets or four 250 mg tablets) once daily, taken with prednisone as prescribed by your doctor. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions.
8. What are the common side effects of abiraterone?
According to prescribing information, common side effects of abiraterone acetate include joint swelling or discomfort, hypokalemia (low potassium), edema (swelling), muscle discomfort, hot flashes, diarrhea, urinary tract infection, cough, hypertension (high blood pressure), and fatigue. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure, potassium levels, and liver function regularly during treatment. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms.
9. Is copay assistance available for generic abiraterone?
Yes, copay assistance may be available for both brand Zytiga and generic abiraterone acetate. Eligibility varies based on your insurance coverage and individual circumstances. QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy helps patients explore all available options to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Call (917) 830-2525 for a free consultation to see what assistance you may qualify for.
10. How can QuickRx help me afford abiraterone?
QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy offers free copay assistance services for patients prescribed abiraterone (brand or generic). Our patient navigators review your insurance benefits, identify all available assistance programs, handle the enrollment paperwork, and coordinate with your doctor’s office. We work to find the most affordable option for your specific situation. There’s no cost for our copay assistance services—call (917) 830-2525 to get started.
11. Can I switch from brand Zytiga to generic abiraterone?
In most cases, yes. Since generic abiraterone acetate is FDA-rated as therapeutically equivalent (AB-rated) to brand Zytiga, pharmacies can typically substitute the generic unless your doctor specifically writes “dispense as written” or “brand medically necessary.” Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether switching to generic is appropriate for you. QuickRx can help you understand your options and potential savings.
12. What monitoring is required while taking abiraterone?
Patients taking abiraterone acetate require regular monitoring. Your healthcare provider will typically check your blood pressure, serum potassium levels, and liver function (ALT/AST) at least monthly during treatment. Additional monitoring may include blood glucose levels (especially for patients with diabetes) and signs of adrenal insufficiency. Always attend your scheduled follow-up appointments and lab tests.
References & Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) Drug Approval Package. Available at: FDA.gov. Accessed December 2025.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA Approves Abiraterone Acetate in Combination with Prednisone for High-Risk Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer. February 7, 2018. Available at: FDA.gov.
- Drugs.com. Generic Zytiga Availability. Available at: Drugs.com. Accessed December 2025.
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Prostate Cancer Treatment. Available at: Cancer.gov. Accessed December 2025.
- American Cancer Society. Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer. Available at: Cancer.org. Accessed December 2025.
- UpToDate/Lexidrug. Abiraterone Acetate Drug Information. Last Updated November 2025.
⚕️ Comprehensive Medical Disclaimer
This article provides general educational information about Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) and generic abiraterone and is not intended as medical advice. All medical decisions should be made in consultation with your qualified healthcare provider. The information provided does not replace professional medical judgment.
If you have questions about abiraterone treatment, side effects, or whether this medication is appropriate for your condition, consult your oncologist or healthcare provider.
QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy is a licensed pharmacy providing medication dispensing and copay assistance enrollment services. We do not provide medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations.
Zytiga® is a registered trademark of Janssen Biotech, Inc. Yonsa® is a registered trademark of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries. QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy is not affiliated with these companies.
