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Abiraterone

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Antiandrogen Zytiga® Cancer-related

Abiraterone - What is it for

Abiraterone is a medicine given to patients with castrate-resistant prostate cancer. It works by decreasing the amount of androgens in your body and is usually given with prednisolone.

Abiraterone - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Abiraterone cause?

  • Joint and muscle pain and weakness
  • Swelling of the leg or feet
  • Hot flushes
  • Headache, giddiness
  • Diarrhea or heartburn
  • High blood pressure
  • Increased blood sugar levels

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Excessive giddiness, weakness, light-headedness or confusion
  • Severe headache
  • Severe muscle or joint pain
  • Severe leg or feet swelling
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Fever (>37.5°C) accompanied by flu-like symptoms
  • Pain on urination
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or having dark tea-coloured urine

Before taking Abiraterone, what precautions must I follow?

  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:
    • Are on any other medicines e.g. warfarin
    • Have any other medical conditions e.g. heart problems, high blood pressure
  • Use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 1 week after stopping treatment

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Abiraterone?

Abiraterone - Dosage and How to Use

How should Abiraterone be used?

​It is a tablet taken by mouth, once daily on an empty stomach i.e. either 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. You may take it with a glass of water or juice.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

​If you miss a dose of Abiraterone, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time. Do not make up for the missed dose by taking 2 doses at once.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.

Abiraterone - Handling and Storage

How should I handle Abiraterone safely?

Women of child-bearing potential should wear gloves while handling this medicine.

How should I store Abiraterone?

Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store at room temperature;#

How should I dispose of Abiraterone safely?

Abiraterone - Additional Information

  • Updated on Thursday, January 14, 2021
  • This article is contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore General Hospital

    The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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