Abiraterone Acetate is the generic name for the prescription drug, Zytiga. Doctors typically prescribe Abiraterone Acetate with prednisone or prednisolone to treat patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. It is a type of hormone therapy and is classified as an “adrenal inhibitor.” As an adrenal inhibitor, it helps interrupt the androgen-making process which can play a significant role in the treatment of prostate cancer. Lowering the androgen levels in prostate cancer cells is crucial in helping to shrink the cancer cells or cause them to grow more slowly.
Clinical trials in CRPC patients show promising results. The Abiraterone Acetate and Prednisone combination prolonged overall survival rates compared to placebo treatment. Some of the most common adverse reactions reported during clinical trials included: joint swelling, muscle discomfort, hot flush, urinary frequency, hypertension, nausea, high cholesterol, and cough.
Abiraterone Dosage Guide: How to Take It
Abiraterone Acetate (Zytiga) is usually prescribed along with Prednisone to patients who have received prior chemotherapy containing docetaxel. It must be taken on an empty stomach. Avoid eating food for at least one hour before the medication, or patients should wait two hours after a meal before taking it.
Doctors typically prescribe 1,000 mg of Abiraterone Acetate once daily. You’ll take this with 5mg of oral prednisone. Take your medication at the same time each day. Swallow the tablets whole with water. Patients with severe hepatic impairment cannot take Abiraterone.
Abiraterone Appearance Guide
250 mg Abiraterone Acetate tablets are white to off-white in color, oval in shape, and stamped with AA250 on one side.
Abiraterone vs Chemotherapy: Understanding the Difference
Despite its use in helping to treat prostate cancer, Abiraterone is considered hormone therapy and is not a form of chemotherapy.
While Abiraterone is not a cure for prostate cancer, it can work as a treatment for the disease, helping to slow the growth of prostate cancer cells and keep it under control. It has been shown to help some patients live longer, while managing some of the symptoms related to the illness.
How Does Abiraterone Work?
Abiraterone works differently than other androgen inhibitors. It interferes with an enzyme found in three key areas: testicular, adrenal, and prostatic tumor tissues. This action stops androgen production at all three main sites. The result? Your body produces less testosterone—the hormone that fuels cancer cell growth. Abiraterone Acetate has been clinically proven to slow the progression of prostate cancer.
How to Take Abiraterone Acetate Correctly
The following are basic recommendations to help you manage your treatment while on Abiraterone and avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions.
- Neither Abiraterone Acetate or Prednisone should be administered without the supervision of your doctor. Always take the medication as per your doctor’s recommendations and instructions and avoid cutting in half or skipping dosages.
- This medication is not recommended for pregnant women as fatal interactions may occur and the drug was not administered to women during clinical trials. Always consult with your doctor if pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- Always take the drug on an empty stomach and at the same time every day.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
- Always consult with your medical provider if new side effects or symptoms occur.
- Take your Abiraterone exactly as prescribed
- Avoid skipping or missing your prescribed dose of Abiraterone or Prednisone. If missed, take your prescribed dose the following day. Notify your medical care provider if you miss more than two doses
Many patients experience increased tiredness while taking Abiraterone Acetate. This common side effect affects most people who use this medication. Your doctor will monitor you regularly during treatment. These check-ups help identify any problematic side effects or drug interactions early. Always tell your doctor about any side effects you experience, even if they don’t appear on the standard list.
If you need help paying for your Abiraterone Acetate (Zytiga) copay, we have many resources available for you. Click the button below this article to begin our Financial Assistance process. We make it super quick and easy for you, with very little work needed on your part. If you would like to read more about how these programs work and what they may entail for you, check out our blog; “Abiraterone Copay Cards, Zytiga Copay Cards, and Other Ways to Save.”
