Why is this medication prescribed?

Abiraterone is a medication used to treat prostate cancer, particularly in cases where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body or has not responded to other treatments. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called CYP17, which is involved in producing androgens (male hormones like testosterone). By lowering the levels of these hormones, abiraterone can help slow the growth of prostate cancer cells. It’s often used in combination with other medications, such as prednisone, to enhance its effectiveness and manage side effects.

How should this medicine be used?

Abiraterone is typically taken as an oral tablet. Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: The usual dose is 1,000 mg (two 500 mg tablets) taken once daily. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the exact dosage based on your condition and response to treatment.
• Administration: Take the tablets on an empty stomach, which means at least one hour before or two hours after eating. This helps with proper absorption of the medication.
• Combination with Prednisone: Abiraterone is often used in combination with prednisone or prednisolone. Make sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on taking these medications together.
• Consistency: Try to take the medication at the same time each day to help you remember and maintain consistent levels of the drug in your body.
• Avoiding Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with abiraterone, so it’s best to avoid them.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests are often required to monitor your response to the medication and check for potential side effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about taking abiraterone.

Other uses for this medicine

• Secondary Use in Certain Cancers: Abiraterone has been investigated for use in other types of cancer, particularly those that are hormone-sensitive, although its primary approval is for prostate cancer.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Liver Function: Abiraterone can affect liver function. Regular liver function tests are important to monitor for any abnormalities.
• Blood Pressure: It may cause high blood pressure, so monitoring your blood pressure regularly is advised.
• Adrenal Insufficiency: Abiraterone can lead to adrenal insufficiency. Watch for symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or nausea and report them to your healthcare provider.
• Bone Health: It can affect bone health, so monitoring bone density may be necessary, especially if you have risk factors for osteoporosis.
• Drug Interactions: Avoid certain medications and substances, such as grapefruit and grapefruit juice, which can interact with abiraterone. Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Abiraterone is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is important to use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after discontinuing the medication.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as fatigue, joint pain, and hot flashes. Report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider.

Always discuss any concerns or specific health conditions with your healthcare provider to ensure that abiraterone is used safely and effectively in your treatment plan.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Empty Stomach: Take abiraterone on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after eating. This ensures proper absorption of the medication.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interfere with how abiraterone works, so it’s best to avoid them.
• Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, but consult your healthcare provider for any specific dietary restrictions or recommendations related to your overall health and treatment.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of abiraterone, take it as soon as you remember, but only if it is within 12 hours of your scheduled time.
• Skipping Doses: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific advice on what to do if you miss a dose, as they can provide guidance based on your treatment plan.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Abiraterone can cause a range of side effects. Common and potentially serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of warmth, often accompanied by sweating.
• Joint Pain: Discomfort or pain in the joints.
• Diarrhea: Frequent, loose, or watery stools.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and vomiting.
• Swelling: Especially in the legs or ankles, which may be due to fluid retention.

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Problems: Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or persistent nausea.
• High Blood Pressure: Monitor for symptoms like headache, vision changes, or chest pain.
• Adrenal Insufficiency: Symptoms include severe fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or low blood sugar.
• Bone Density Loss: Potential for osteoporosis or fractures, particularly with long-term use.
• Heart Issues: Rarely, can cause heart problems or exacerbate existing conditions.
• Allergic Reactions: Includes rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

If you experience any of these serious side effects or have any unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can help manage these effects and adjust your treatment if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Abiraterone:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store abiraterone at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
  • Humidity: Keep the medication in a dry place, away from moisture and humidity.
  • Container: Store it in its original container to protect it from light and moisture.
  • Children and Pets: Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Follow Instructions: Dispose of abiraterone according to local regulations or guidelines provided by your pharmacist.
  • Drug Take-Back Programs: Use drug take-back programs or disposal sites if available. Many communities have specific programs for safely disposing of unused medications.
  • Do Not Flush: Avoid flushing abiraterone down the toilet or pouring it into a drain unless instructed to do so by specific disposal guidelines.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Poison Control: Call your local poison control center or emergency services immediately if you suspect an overdose.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe side effects or symptoms like extreme fatigue, severe nausea or vomiting, or swelling.
• Seek Immediate Care: Go to the nearest emergency room or call emergency services if you experience severe symptoms or if instructed by a healthcare professional.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Routine blood tests and follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your response to the medication and check for side effects.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Consistency: Take abiraterone exactly as prescribed and do not alter the dose or schedule without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Medical History: Keep your healthcare provider informed about your medical history and any other health conditions you may have, as this can impact your treatment plan.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the use, storage, and disposal of your medication.