Abiraterone Acetate

Uses

Abiraterone Acetate Uses: Abiraterone Acetate is used in the treatment of prostate cancer.

How it Works

How Abiraterone Acetate Works Abiraterone Acetate is an anticancer medication that functions by inhibiting the production of androgens (male hormones) in men. It achieves this by blocking an enzyme called CYP17, which is responsible for androgen synthesis. This mechanism helps to slow down the growth of prostate cancer.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Abiraterone Acetate include decreased potassium levels in the blood, high blood pressure, urinary tract infection, diarrhea, increased triglyceride levels in the blood, sepsis, cardiac failure, angina pectoris, atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, dyspepsia, blood in urine, peripheral edema, and fractures.

Expert Advice

Abiraterone Acetate is used to treat prostate cancer that has metastasized to other parts of the body.
It is typically administered in conjunction with another medication called prednisolone to mitigate unwanted side effects.
The medication must be taken on an empty stomach.
Avoid consuming food for at least 2 hours before or 1 hour after your dose.
Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water.
Always utilize effective birth control methods to prevent pregnancy while on this medication.
Your doctor may routinely monitor your liver function, blood pressure, and potassium levels in your blood during treatment with this medication.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

How to take Abiraterone Acetate?

Abiraterone Acetate should be taken on an empty stomach with water, one hour before or at least two hours after eating. Do not crush or chew the tablet, as food can affect blood levels.

Does Abiraterone Acetate affect the liver?

Abiraterone Acetate can lead to severe liver issues, including acute liver failure in rare cases. Report any symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe nausea to your doctor.

Is Abiraterone Acetate a chemotherapy drug?

Abiraterone Acetate is a hormonal therapy, not a chemotherapy drug. It is used to treat metastatic prostate cancer by inhibiting testosterone production, which can slow cancer growth.

Can Abiraterone Acetate cure prostate cancer?

Abiraterone Acetate does not cure prostate cancer but helps prolong and improve patient life. It is associated with a lower frequency of fractures and reduced pain increase compared to other treatments.

How frequently should liver investigations be done?

Liver enzymes should be tested before starting treatment, every two weeks for the first three months, and monthly thereafter. If symptoms of liver toxicity arise, testing should be done immediately.

Why do I need to take prednisolone with Abiraterone Acetate?

Prednisolone is prescribed with Abiraterone Acetate to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, fluid retention, and low potassium levels, which can occur with Abiraterone Acetate.

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