About
Abiraterone acetate is an oral androgen biosynthesis inhibitor, primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It functions by specifically inhibiting cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase/C17,20-lyase (CYP17), a crucial enzyme involved in androgen biosynthesis. This enzyme is expressed in various tissues, including the testes, adrenal glands, and prostate tumor cells, making it a key target for reducing androgen production. By blocking CYP17, abiraterone significantly lowers the levels of androgens in the body, which are hormones that fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells. This reduction in androgen levels helps to slow down the progression of the disease and can improve patient outcomes. It is typically administered in combination with a corticosteroid like prednisone or prednisolone to mitigate certain side effects, particularly those related to mineralocorticoid excess, such as hypertension and hypokalemia, which can arise from the drug's mechanism of action.
Uses
- Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).
- Metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC).
- Prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
- Used in conjunction with prednisone or prednisolone.
Directions For Use
Take orally once daily on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after food. Swallow tablets whole with water.
Benefits
- Slows progression of prostate cancer.
- Extends overall survival in mCRPC and mCSPC.
- Reduces androgen production.
- Oral administration for convenience.
- Improves quality of life for some patients.
- Effective in hormone-sensitive and resistant settings.
Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Joint swelling/discomfort
- Hot flashes
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
- Hypokalemia (low potassium)
- Fluid retention (edema)
- Liver enzyme elevation
- Urinary tract infection
- Anemia
- Hypertriglyceridemia
- Adrenal insufficiency (when discontinuing corticosteroids)
Safety Measures
- Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate liver side effects and potentially interact with the medication.
- Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnant women. It can cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should avoid contact with crushed or broken tablets.
- Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential harm to the infant.
- Liver - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver impairment. Dose adjustments may be necessary, and liver function should be monitored regularly.
- Kidney - Generally safe in mild to moderate renal impairment; however, caution is advised in severe renal impairment, and monitoring is recommended.
- Lung - No specific contraindications related to lung conditions, but general caution applies for patients with severe comorbidities.
Disclaimer
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