Abiraterone – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, Safety

Abiraterone (Zytiga) – Full Medicine Information

Also Known As / Brand Names

Abiraterone is available under several brand names globally. Some common ones include:
  • Zytiga
  • Abirapro
  • Abirakast
  • Abretone
  • Abione
  • Abi-Pro
  • Yonsa (micronized version)
It is a prescription medicine used in advanced prostate cancer management.

Product Introduction

Abiraterone acetate is an oral medication used in the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). It works by inhibiting an enzyme called CYP17, which is involved in the production of androgens (male hormones like testosterone).

Prostate cancer cells depend on androgens to grow and survive. Abiraterone effectively blocks androgen production at three sites: the testes, adrenal glands, and tumor tissue. This action helps to slow or stop the progression of prostate cancer. It is typically prescribed along with a corticosteroid like prednisone to reduce the risk of mineralocorticoid-related side effects such as hypertension and fluid retention.

Uses of Abiraterone

  • Treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)
  • Treatment of metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC)
  • Combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in advanced prostate cancer
  • Used when cancer has spread and is not responding to surgical or chemical castration

Benefits of Abiraterone

Abiraterone offers a targeted approach to managing prostate cancer. By blocking androgen production, it helps slow disease progression and improve survival outcomes. Clinical trials have shown that abiraterone significantly extends overall survival in men with advanced prostate cancer compared to standard hormone therapy alone.

Additional benefits include:

  • Improved quality of life and symptom control in advanced stages
  • Delayed need for chemotherapy or additional hormone therapies
  • Well tolerated with manageable side effects
Abiraterone is usually administered as part of a long-term treatment plan and is known to delay complications and improve the performance status of patients.

Side Effects of Abiraterone

While Abiraterone is generally well tolerated, it may cause side effects in some individuals. These can range from mild to serious. Common and rare side effects include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)
  • Fluid retention and swelling (especially in the legs or feet)
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Increased liver enzymes
  • Joint pain or muscle discomfort
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Adrenal insufficiency (rare)
  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Cardiovascular events (rare in those with existing heart disease)

Regular monitoring of blood pressure, liver function, and potassium levels is recommended during treatment. Always report any unusual symptoms or signs of allergic reaction such as rash or difficulty breathing.

Safety Advice

Condition Advice
Pregnancy UNSAFE – Not for use in women. Abiraterone may harm an unborn baby. It is strictly contraindicated in pregnancy.
Breastfeeding SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Abiraterone is not intended for use in breastfeeding women, but incidental exposure is unlikely to be harmful under medical guidance.
Driving CAUTION – Some patients may experience dizziness or fatigue. Avoid driving if affected.
Kidney SAFE – No dose adjustment is typically required in mild to moderate kidney disease. Use with caution in severe impairment.
Liver CAUTION – Dose modification may be necessary in liver dysfunction. Liver function should be monitored regularly.