Zytiga (Abiraterone)

Zytiga (Abiraterone) Medication Information

Uses

Zytiga is a CYP17 inhibitor used to treat prostate cancer.

Dosage

The tablets are available in 250 mg strength.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Zytiga include:

• Hypokalemia
• Edema
• Joint swelling
• Muscle discomfort
• Hot flash
• Diarrhea
• Hypertension
• Dyspepsia 

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Abiraterone.

Precautions

There is a risk of mineralocorticoid excess, so Zytiga should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease.

There is a risk of adrenal insufficiency which is why Abiraterone is give when prednisone, and patients will need to be monitored during treatment. 

Patients can experience liver dysfunction with Abiraterone, so liver enzymes should be monitored. 

Interactions

A common drug interaction with Zytiga includes:

• Thioridazine
• Ketoconazole
• Clarithromycin
• Nelfinavir
• Rifampin 

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Abiraterone. 

Storage

Store at room temperature (59-86 ºF). 

Pharmacist Tips

• Zytiga is given once a day.
• There are dose adjustments for Zytiga for patients with liver dysfunction. 
• Abiraterone should not be given to women who are or can become pregnant. 

Abiraterone FAQs

How quickly does Zytiga work?

It can take a few weeks for you to see the benefit with Zytiga.

Why do you take prednisone with Zytiga?

Zytiga causes adrenal insufficiency, so it must be taken with prednisone. 

Can you take Zytiga at night?

Because Zytiga has to be take at least 2 hours before food, it can be taken at night to avoid taking it with food. 

Does Zytiga make you tired?

Abiraterone can make you feel tired, as it is a common side effect. 

Is Zytiga considered chemotherapy?

Abiraterone is a hormone therapy, it is not technically chemotherapy, but it is used to treat cancer. 

Related Drugs

• Androcur
• Casodex
• Xtandi
• Zoladex

Reference:

Zytiga {package insert}. Horsham, PA: Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.; 2011.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/202379lbl.pdf