Abiraterone Acetate 500mg Tablets-Ahabir

Q1: What is Abiraterone Acetate used for?

Abiraterone Acetate is used to treat metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer, in combination with prednisone and androgen deprivation therapy.

Q2: How does Abiraterone Acetate work against prostate cancer?

Abiraterone inhibits the CYP17A1 enzyme, blocking androgen biosynthesis in the testes, adrenal glands, and prostate tumor tissue. This deprives prostate cancer cells of testosterone and other androgens they need to grow.

Q3: What type of prostate cancer does Abiraterone treat?

Abiraterone treats hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant prostate cancer — both metastatic and non-metastatic high-risk forms. It is used in newly diagnosed high-risk patients as well as those whose cancer has progressed on prior hormonal therapy.

Q4: How is Abiraterone Acetate administered?

It is taken orally as 1000mg (two 500mg tablets) once daily on an empty stomach — at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating — always in combination with prednisone 5mg twice daily.

Q5: Why must Abiraterone be taken with prednisone?

Abiraterone suppresses adrenal androgen production and can cause mineralocorticoid excess (hypertension, hypokalemia, fluid retention). Low-dose prednisone counteracts these mineralocorticoid effects and is a mandatory co-treatment.

Q6: How long is Abiraterone treatment?

Abiraterone is continued as long as the patient benefits from treatment and side effects remain manageable. Treatment duration is determined by your oncologist based on PSA response, imaging, and tolerability.

Q7: What are the most common side effects?

Common side effects include joint swelling and pain, fatigue, hot flashes, diarrhea, peripheral edema, hypokalemia (low potassium), and hypertension. Regular monitoring by an oncologist is essential.

Q8: What serious side effects require emergency care?

Seek immediate medical attention for signs of severe liver toxicity (jaundice, dark urine, severe abdominal pain), adrenal insufficiency (severe weakness, dizziness, vomiting), significant hypertension, or heart complications.

Q9: What drugs interact with Abiraterone?

Abiraterone interacts with CYP3A4 inducers (rifampicin, phenytoin) which reduce its levels, CYP2D6 substrates (certain antidepressants, dextromethorphan), and spironolactone. Always disclose all medications to your oncologist.

Q10: Is Abiraterone Acetate safe during pregnancy?

No. Abiraterone is not intended for use in women. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Male patients with female partners of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for 3 weeks after treatment.

Q11: What monitoring tests are needed during Abiraterone treatment?

Regular monitoring includes liver function tests (ALT/AST/bilirubin) every 2 weeks for the first 3 months then monthly, blood pressure, serum potassium, fluid balance, and PSA measurements to assess treatment response.

Q12: Is Abiraterone Acetate available without a prescription?

No. Abiraterone Acetate is a prescription-only oncology medication that must be used exclusively under oncologist supervision as part of a structured cancer treatment plan.