Abiraterone: Uses, Interactions and Safety
Uses
Abiraterone acetate reduces androgen production and is used with prednisone or prednisolone for selected forms of metastatic prostate cancer. It treats both specified hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant settings. Treatment selection depends on previous therapy and the local product label. Medical or surgical androgen deprivation usually continues.
Administration
This summary concerns conventional abiraterone acetate tablets, including Zytiga. These are swallowed whole with water on an empty stomach because food can markedly increase exposure. Follow the instructions for the exact product supplied. Alternative abiraterone formulations can have different food instructions. Do not change or stop the accompanying steroid without the treatment team.
Safety
The team monitors blood pressure, potassium, fluid retention and liver function. Low potassium can contribute to dangerous heart rhythms. Seek prompt assessment for fainting, palpitations, marked weakness, swelling, breathlessness or jaundice. Severe liver impairment is a contraindication. Combining the prednisone or prednisolone regimen with radium-223 is contraindicated because of fracture and mortality concerns.
Interactions
Rifampicin, several antiseizure medicines and other strong enzyme inducers can reduce anticancer exposure. Abiraterone inhibits CYP2D6 and can alter medicines such as metoprolol, propafenone and tramadol. Spironolactone is not recommended with it. Medicines that prolong the QT interval need careful assessment, particularly when potassium is low. Have prescriptions, supplements and recent medication changes reviewed.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
This prostate cancer treatment is not indicated for women and is contraindicated in women who are or could become pregnant. Discuss partner contraception and handling precautions with the team. There is no indicated use while breastfeeding.
Adverse effects
Common problems include ankle swelling, high blood pressure, low potassium, urinary infections and raised liver enzymes. Symptoms alone cannot reliably identify abnormal potassium or liver function, which is why scheduled blood tests matter.
Sources
Additional verified references
The linked Turkish profile contains the medicine record and its documented interaction list.