Abiraterone Acetate

Zytiga

Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) is a medication prescribed for advanced prostate cancer, specifically for metastatic castration-resistant and high-risk castration-sensitive types. The recommended dosage is 1,000 mg daily, taken on an empty stomach with prednisone. Its common side effects include fatigue, nausea, and joint pain, while serious side effects may involve heart and liver issues. This medication can be used in combination with prednisone to prevent the side effects caused by Zytiga. Therefore, patients are advised to talk to a medical professional and adhere to their doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and safety precautions. Lastly, if you plan to buy Zytiga online, trust the licensed pharmacies for quality medications.

Product Overview

Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) is a medication used in the treatment of prostate cancer, specifically metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC). The main ingredient, abiraterone acetate, works by inhibiting the enzyme CYP17, which is involved in the production of androgens (male hormones) in the testes, adrenal glands, and prostate tumor tissue. By blocking this enzyme, Zytiga reduces the levels of androgens, including testosterone, that can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. This helps to slow the progression of the disease and can be an effective treatment for men with advanced prostate cancer.

Zytiga is available in tablet form with strengths of 250mg and 500mg. The recommended dosage for adults with mCRPC or mHSPC is 1,000 mg taken orally once daily, along with prednisone 5 mg taken orally once or twice daily, depending on the particular condition. Abiraterone 500mg tablets should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal, and swallowed whole with water. It is important for patients to follow their doctor’s instructions for taking Zytiga and prednisone and not alter the medication without consulting their doctor.

Some of the common side effects of Zytiga include fatigue, nausea, joint pain, diarrhea, and edema. Serious side effects include high blood pressure, low blood potassium levels, fluid retention, irregular heartbeats, and severe liver problems. Patients should inform their doctor if they have any history of heart disease, liver problems, or low potassium levels before taking Zytiga. Additionally, Zytiga is not for use by women, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it can harm an unborn or breastfeeding baby. Men with female partners of childbearing age should use reliable forms of birth control while taking Zytiga and for at least three weeks after stopping treatment. In case of a missed dose or overdose, patients should follow the guidance provided by their healthcare provider. Zytiga should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture & heat, and out of reach of children.

What Are the Uses of Zytiga?

This medication is used for the treatment of two types of prostate cancer:

• CRPC: Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer 
• CSPC: Metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer 

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Zytiga?

When you plan to buy Zytiga online, consult your doctor as the medication comes in different strengths:

Form: Tablets

Strengths: 250mg and 500mg

What Is the Recommended Dosage for Zytiga?

The dosage of Zytiga depends on various factors, including:

• Your medical condition history
• The severity of your condition
• How well your liver is functioning, and 
• The other medications you take

Generally, your practitioner will start you on a loading dose and adjust it accordingly. The doses and the duration of the treatment may vary based on your response to the treatment. Therefore, if you have been prescribed a different dose, discuss it with your medical practitioner before changing it. Here are the average dosage recommendations of Zytiga for adults:

Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC):

• Adults: The typical dose is 1,000mg (four 250 mg tablets or two 500 mg tablets) taken orally once daily, along with prednisone 5 mg taken orally twice daily.

Metastatic High-Risk Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer (mHSPC):

• Adults: The usual dose is 1,000 mg (four 250 mg tablets or two abiraterone 500 mg tablets) taken orally once daily, along with prednisone 5 mg taken orally once daily.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Take Zytiga?

• Take Zytiga tablets once daily as a single dose on an empty stomach.
• Avoid eating food for 2 hours before & 1 hour after taking Zytiga.
• Do not take Zytiga with food, as it can increase absorption and lead to side effects.
• Swallow Zytiga tablets whole with water; do not crush or chew them.
• If you are having difficulty swallowing the medication, talk to your doctor. They will suggest alternate options tailored to your condition.
• You will also be prescribed prednisone while taking Zytiga. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking prednisone.
• Do not alter or stop taking Zytiga or prednisone without consulting your doctor.
• This medication has many brands with different dosage recommendations. So, do not change your medication’s brand without consulting your doctor. 
• Take the tablets regularly simultaneously to get the most benefit from them.
• If your condition worsens or does not improve, reach out to a medical professional.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Zytiga Work?

Abiraterone is a generic drug for Zytiga. This active drug restricts the enzyme CYP17, which produces androgens (male hormones) in the testes, adrenal glands, and prostate tumor tissue. By blocking this enzyme, Zytiga reduces the levels of androgens, including testosterone, that can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. This helps to slow the progression of the disease and can be an effective treatment for men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), which is a type of prostate cancer that spreads even when testosterone levels are significantly reduced.

Important Safety Information for Using Zytiga

What Are the Side Effects of Zytiga?

Common Side Effects of Zytiga: This medication can cause some side effects which are generally temporary. These effects can last from a few days to weeks, depending on the severity of the condition. You do not need any special medical attention when experiencing these side effects, as they will disappear on their own. However, if these effects do not go away or intensify, do not overlook the situation and reach out to a medical expert. Some of its common side effects are: 

• Fatigue: Low testosterone levels (responsible for stamina and energy) may cause fatigue or exhaustion. This happens as your body is unable to produce enough hormones to support minimum energy levels.
• Nausea: This medication can affect the body’s hormones and digestive system, making you feel nauseous. 
• Joint Pain: Testosterone helps maintain bone density, but Zytiga can affect your hormone levels, causing discomfort or pain in the joint. 
• Diarrhea: The drugs present in the formulation of the medication can disrupt your digestion and lead to diarrhea. If you notice persistent loose or watery stools, talk to your doctor. 
• Urinary Tract Infection: A weakened immune system makes it easier for bacteria to develop an infection. UTIs can cause pain, burning, and frequent urination.
• Hematuria: If you suspect blood in your urine, it is an indicator of impaired bladder or kidneys that can further damage your urinary tract. If you suspect any such side effect during your treatment with this medication, consult a physician.
• Nocturia: While taking Zytiga, you may experience increased urine production at night. This usually happens due to bladder irritation. 
• Insomnia: Changes in hormone levels can disrupt your normal sleep cycle. As a result, you may face difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to insomnia.
• Constipation: Zytiga can affect the digestive system’s normal function by slowing down bowel movements. This can cause constipation, making it difficult or painful to have a bowel movement.
• Dyspepsia: This medication can interfere with the stomach and digestive system, causing indigestion. Its symptoms may include burning, discomfort, and bloating post-meal.
• Headache: Hormonal changes can affect the brain’s blood flow and cause chemical imbalances. These headaches can be mild or moderate, but if it becomes severe, consult your doctor.  
• Lightheadedness: Zytiga can reduce your blood pressure or make you dehydrated, thus resulting in fainting. This happens due to fluctuations in your blood circulation.
• Confusion: Hormone imbalances, particularly low testosterone, can impact brain function. This can lead to feelings of confusion, where you might struggle to focus, think clearly, or remember things as easily.

Serious Side Effects of Zytiga: While the medication is well-tolerated by almost everyone, it may lead to several side effects in certain patients. If you are noticing any unwanted signs or symptoms while using Zytiga, consult your healthcare professional. Below are some of the serious side effects of this medication:

• High Blood Pressure: Zytiga restricts the production of aldosterone hormones, which are responsible for controlling blood pressure. This disruption can result in the retention of more sodium, thus leading to hypertension.
• Low Blood Potassium Levels: Many patients may experience hypokalemia due to Zytiga. This is because the medication affects the mineral balance in the body. Its symptoms may include:
  • Muscle pain or cramps
  • Weakness
  • Irregular heartbeats
• Fluid Retention: Increased aldosterone levels can cause increased sodium and water retention in the body. This extra fluid buildup leads to edema, also known as swelling, especially in feet, legs, and other parts of the body.
• Adrenal Problems: The adrenal glands produce hormones that regulate various functions, such as stress response and metabolism. When you take Zytiga, it blocks certain hormones, lowering the ability of the adrenal glands to work effectively. As a result, you experience fatigue, weakness, or low blood pressure.
• Liver problems: This side effect may occur in the first three months of using abiraterone. These problems usually occur due to overwork of the liver, causing damage and leading to death in extreme cases. Some of its symptoms are:
  • Dark urine
  • Not feeling hungry
  • Itchy skin
  • Jaundice
  • Fatigue
  • Stomach pain
  • Severe nausea and vomiting
• Risk of Bone Fracture: Abiraterone is a generic drug of Zytiga, and when you take this drug and prednisone with radium Ra 223 dichloride (a type of radiation), it may increase your chances of bone fracture and death.
• Low Blood Sugar: Zytiga can also reduce your blood glucose (sugar) levels, especially if you have diabetes mellitus or are taking other medications that affect blood sugar. Its symptoms may include: 
  • Dizziness
  • Shaking
  • Confusion
  • Fainting
  • Seizures
• Cardiac Disorders: Zytiga may affect your heart functioning, increasing the risk of heart problems. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms during your treatment with Zytiga, consult a medical professional.
  • Dizziness
  • Irregular heartbeats
  • Rapid heart rhythms
• Allergic Reactions: If you are sensitive to abiraterone, you may experience hypersensitivity. Some of its symptoms may include:
  • Severe itching
  • Rash
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling
• Weight Loss: While it is not a direct side effect of Zytiga, some patients have reported cases of weight loss. This usually happens due to appetite changes and common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Zytiga? 

While the medication is effective for treating prostate cancer, it can also lead to several warnings. So, before you consider using Zytiga, be cautious of the following risks:

• Fluid Balance: This medication may result in fluid retention and fluctuations in your blood potassium levels. If you experience symptoms, such as muscle weakness, twitches, or rapid heartbeats, talk to your doctor. They will check your blood tests and monitor the electrolyte levels in your blood.
• Heart Disease: Due to high blood pressure and fluid retention caused by Zytiga, your heart may not work as well as it should. Patients with a history of heart problems should use this medication cautiously and consult a medical expert beforehand. 
• Liver Function: Do not use Zytiga if you have severe liver disease, as it can cause drug buildup in the body, leading to adverse side effects. Moreover, this medication may lower your liver function, often resulting in liver failure. Talk to a medical practitioner if you notice symptoms like jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, not feeling hungry, or itchy skin.
• Pregnancy: Zytiga is not for use by women, as it can affect an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Pregnant women or those who may become pregnant should avoid handling the tablets.
• Muscle Damage: Abiraterone (a generic drug for Zytiga) may affect your muscles. This risk is higher if you take this medication with other drugs like statin. Do not ignore muscle pain, weakness, tenderness, or cramps; report it directly to your doctor.

What Precautions Should Be Taken When Taking Abiraterone (Zytiga)?

To maintain the safety and effectiveness of your medication, you should know the following precautions. These preventive measures ensure you take the medicine properly to avoid potential risks.

• Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to abiraterone or any other allergies. The product may contain certain components that can cause adverse hypersensitivity reactions.
• Discuss your medical history with your healthcare practitioner, especially if you have had:
• Heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Liver problems
• Diabetes
• Low potassium levels
• Infections
• Fluid retention
• Adrenal or pituitary gland problems
• Abiraterone may cause QT prolongation, a condition that affects heart rhythm and can lead to serious fast or irregular heartbeat and other symptoms requiring immediate medical attention.
• The risk of QT prolongation may increase if you have certain heart conditions, a family history of heart problems, or are taking other medications that can cause QT prolongation.
• Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood can also raise the risk of QT prolongation. Discuss with your doctor if you are taking diuretics or have conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
• Using corticosteroids along with abiraterone for an extended period can affect your body’s response to physical stress. Inform your doctor or dentist if you are using abiraterone before any surgery or emergency treatment or if you experience unusual tiredness or weight loss.
• If you will be taking abiraterone for a long time, carry a warning card or medical ID bracelet indicating your use of this medication.
• Inform your doctor or dentist about all the medications you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, before having surgery.
• While taking Zytiga and for at least one week after your treatment ends, use a condom to prevent transferring the medication to your sexual partner if she is pregnant. Use a condom and another form of effective birth control if your partner could become pregnant.
• Older adults may be extremely sensitive to the side effects of abiraterone, particularly QT prolongation.
• This medication is not for use by women, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it can harm an unborn or breastfeeding baby.
• Men with female partners of childbearing age should use reliable forms of birth control while taking abiraterone and for at least three weeks after stopping treatment. Consult your doctor for more details.

What Are the Contraindications for Zytiga?

This medication is contraindicated in the following patients or situations:

• Pregnancy: Zytiga should not be used in women who are or may become pregnant.
• Severe Liver Impairment: Zytiga should not be used in patients with serious liver impairment (Child-Pugh class C).
• Radium Ra 223: Zytiga should not be combined with radium Ra 223.
• Hypersensitivity: Zytiga should not be used in patients with a known allergy to abiraterone.

What If You Miss a Dose of Zytiga?

• If you miss a dose of Zytiga, take your regular dose the next day.
• If you miss more than one dose, contact your doctor immediately. 
• If you’re unsure whether to take a missed dose or skip it, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Use a pill organizer to schedule your tablets weekly. This way, you will not forget any of your doses.
• Besides, you can install medication apps on your phones to avoid skipping any doses.

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Zytiga?

There is limited experience with Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) overdose. There is no specific antidote for an overdose of Zytiga, and treatment should focus on general supportive measures, including monitoring of cardiac and liver function.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How Do You Store Abiraterone (Zytiga)?

Proper storage of every medication is essential to maintain its effectiveness until the expiration date. As the cost of the generic version of Zytiga can vary, ensuring that the medication is stored correctly helps protect your health and investment. Below are some of the storage guidelines for Zytiga:

• Store Zytiga at room temperature, ideally between 68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C.
• Keep Zytiga in a tightly closed container.
• Store the medication in a place that is free from moisture & heat.
• Ensure that Zytiga is kept out of reach of children.
• Store your tablets in a locked container and place a safety lock on them to avoid poisoning your child. Many products on the market are not child-resistant.
• Protect the medication from extreme heat, light, and moisture.
• Avoid keeping them in damp areas like the bathroom or sinks.
• Discard any expired medication or medication that is no longer needed.
• Always check the expiration date of your tablets. It is mentioned on the back of the product or label.
• Dispose of the medication so that it is not damaging the environment. 

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Zytiga?

Combining two or more drugs without consulting your doctor can lead to drug interactions. These interactions can raise the risk of side effects or disrupt the medication’s functioning. As a result, you may not achieve the results you are aiming for. So, when you decide to buy Zytiga online, you should know which drugs can interact with your medication. Below are some of these interactions:

• CYP3A4 Inducers: Medications such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and phenobarbital can decrease the effectiveness of Zytiga.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Drugs like ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, and ritonavir can increase the levels of Zytiga in the blood, potentially resulting in more side effects.
• CYP2D6 Substrates: Zytiga may increase the levels of medications metabolized by CYP2D6, such as metoprolol, paroxetine, and desipramine.
• Blood Thinners: There may be an increased risk of bleeding when Zytiga is taken with anticoagulants like warfarin.
• Corticosteroids: Since Zytiga is taken with prednisone, it’s important to monitor for side effects related to corticosteroid use.
• Other Hormonal Therapies: Use caution when combining Zytiga with other hormonal therapies for prostate cancer, as this can affect hormone levels and increase the risk of side effects.

What Are the Other Zytiga Interactions?

Other than the above drugs, this medication can also interact with certain herbs, vitamins, supplements, diseases, and lifestyle changes. So, before you use Zytiga, inform your doctor about all the products you are taking. Here are some of these interactions:

• Xofigo: Avoid using abiraterone with radium Ra 223 dichloride (Xofigo). A clinical study has shown a greater risk of bone fractures and death when these medications are taken together.
• St. John’s Wort: Co-administration of Zytiga with St. John’s wort can result in a low amount of Zytiga in the body. 
• Food: Taking your medication with any food can increase the risk of side effects. 
• Diseases: Patients with hepatic impairment and CVD should avoid taking this medication.

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Zytiga. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Zytiga Alternatives?

While Zytiga is effective in treating prostate cancer, it is not suitable for certain patients due to many reasons. One of the main reasons is the cost of the generic version of Zytiga. Besides, people opt for substitutes when they are not achieving the desired results or have certain medical conditions. There are many alternatives to Zytiga on the market but talk to your medical practitioner to avoid potential risks. Some of the drugs are mentioned below that you can take in place of Zytiga:     

• Xtandi (enzalutamide)
• Erleada (apalutamide)
• Nubeqa (darolutamide)
• Casodex (bicalutamide)
• Faslodex (fulvestrant)
• Lynparza (olaparib)
• Rubraca (rucaparib)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.] 

Zytiga Cost & Coupons

The cost of your medication may vary depending on your insurance plan, location, and the pharmacies you use. Since Zytiga is used for the treatment of prostate cancer, it can be expensive for many patients, even with insurance plans, and many health coverages do not include all medications like Zytiga. To manage these costs, you can buy your medications from pharmacies like Polar Bear Meds. Here, the zytiga 500 mg price is more affordable, thus providing patients with a cost-effective option for their treatment. Moreover, first-time buyers can get a discount of 10% on their orders by using the Zytiga coupon code “WELCOMEPB10.” 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Zytiga control my testosterone levels?

Yes, Zytiga is designed to slow or halt the expansion of prostate cancer by reducing the levels of testosterone & other male hormones in your body. It achieves this by inhibiting the production of other steroids that contribute to the formation of testosterone and also by decreasing the levels of another key male hormone, dihydrotestosterone.

Is (Zytiga) considered chemotherapy?

No, abiraterone (Zytiga) is not classified as chemotherapy. Chemotherapy typically involves drugs that kill cancer cells directly. Abiraterone, on the other hand, is a type of hormonal therapy known as an antiandrogen. It operates by reducing the production of testosterone in your body, which is a hormone that most prostate cancer cells rely on for growth and spread. By decreasing testosterone levels, abiraterone (Zytiga) limits the “fuel” available for cancer cells to proliferate or metastasize.

How long do you take Zytiga for prostate cancer?

Zytiga helps in treating prostate cancer, which spreads to other parts of the body. There is no specific duration of the treatment. Patients are generally advised to take the abiraterone 500mg tablets as long as their cancer is controlled or until they can tolerate the side effects. Moreover, it is important to follow the expert’s instructions, as they will monitor your condition and adjust the dosage accordingly.

Why is Zytiga given with prednisone?

Doctors usually recommend patients to Zytiga with oral prednisone, as it helps manage the side effects of Zytiga. Abiraterone restricts the production of cortisol from adrenal glands, and prednisone aids by replacing the lost cortisol, preventing problems like low blood potassium levels, edema, irregular heartbeats, and high blood pressure. These side effects can be serious; therefore, it is important to take these medications together exactly as your doctor prescribes. Your doctor will first check your blood pressure, potassium levels, and fluid retention frequently during your treatment with Zytiga. 

Can Zytiga be stopped?

Do not discontinue using Zytiga without consulting a medical professional, as the medication has a significant effect on hormone levels. So, if you abruptly stop taking Zytiga, it can lead to rapid changes in hormone levels, thus resulting in mood swings, libido, or irritability. Therefore, it is crucial to talk to your doctor before stopping the treatment, as they can help you prevent any withdrawal symptoms and monitor your condition closely.  

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