ZYTIGA (Abiraterone Acetate) is a specialized hormone therapy used to treat men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC).
Unlike traditional chemotherapy, Zytiga is an androgen biosynthesis inhibitor. It works by blocking the enzyme CYP17, which prevents the body from producing testosterone in three places: the testes, the adrenal glands, and the tumor itself. Because prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to grow, reducing these levels can slow or even shrink the tumor.
Critical Administration Rules
To ensure the medication is effective and safe, patients must follow these specific guidelines:
- The “Empty Stomach” Rule: Zytiga must be taken on an empty stomach. You should not eat anything for at least 2 hours before taking your dose and for at least 1 hour after. Taking Zytiga with food can cause your body to absorb too much of the drug, leading to dangerous side effects.
- Combination Therapy: Zytiga is almost always prescribed alongside a corticosteroid (like Prednisone). The steroid helps replace hormones that Zytiga reduces and helps prevent side effects like high blood pressure or fluid retention.
- Consistency: Swallow the 250mg tablets whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break them.
Safety & Monitoring
Patients taking Zytiga require regular monitoring by their clinical team, typically including:
- Liver Function: Blood tests every two weeks for the first three months to check for hepatotoxicity.
- Blood Pressure & Potassium: Abiraterone can cause high blood pressure (hypertension) and low potassium (hypokalemia), which may require additional medication to manage.
- Heart Health: Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart failure or recent heart attack, as fluid retention is a common side effect.
Proper Storage
- Store tablets at room temperature ($20^\circ\text{C}$ to $25^\circ\text{C}$).
- Handling Caution: Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle Zytiga tablets without gloves, as the medication can be absorbed through the skin and harm an unborn baby.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. A valid prescription is required for this medication. Consult your doctor before starting any new treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why do I have to take Prednisone with Zytiga?
Zytiga reduces the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands. Taking Prednisone replaces this necessary hormone and helps lower the risk of side effects like swelling, high blood pressure, and low potassium levels.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of Zytiga or Prednisone, skip the missed dose and take your usual dose the following day. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss more than one dose, contact your oncologist or pharmacist immediately.
Can I drink grapefruit juice while taking Zytiga?
It is best to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice. Grapefruit can interfere with how your liver processes Abiraterone, potentially increasing the level of the drug in your blood to unsafe levels.
How long does it take for Zytiga to start working?
Zytiga begins lowering testosterone levels quickly, but clinical results (such as a drop in PSA levels) are typically monitored over several months. Your doctor will use regular blood tests and imaging to track the medication’s effectiveness.
