Everything You Should Know About Abiraterone

Posted by Linda Hudson on May 6th, 2019

Abiraterone is a hormone therapy drug which is used for treating prostate cancer. It works by reducing the production of androgen in the body. Androgens are the male hormones that can promote the growth of tumor in the prostate gland.

How to Take Abiraterone?

While it is absolutely essential to follow the dosage instructions given by your doctor, Abiraterone is usually taken once in a day along with prednisone 1 or 2 times a day. It should be taken on an empty stomach with water at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Also, your blood pressure needs to be checked often, and you might need frequent blood tests when you are on Abiraterone.

Things to Keep in Mind While Taking Abiraterone

1)    Abiraterone shouldn’t be taken if you’re allergic to it, or if you’ve ever had severe liver disease

2)    Inform your doctor if you’ve ever had:

a)     Liver disease

b)    Heart problems

c)     Low potassium level in your blood

d)    Problems in your adrenal or pituitary gland

3)    Abiraterone should not be taken by women or children

4)    If you’re sexually active and there is a chance your partner could become pregnant, use a condom together with another form of contraception while you are taking abiraterone and for three months after.

5)    If your partner is pregnant, you should use a condom if you have sex, as abiraterone could harm the baby.

6)    Abiraterone is not approved for anyone younger than 18 years old.

Side effects of Abiraterone

It is possible that you could experience some Abiraterone side effects. Thus, it is important to get medical help if you have:

•         Signs of an allergic reaction
•         Hives
•         Difficulty in breathing
•         Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
•         Swelling in ankles or feet, or pain in your legs
•         Pain or burning sensation while urinating
•         Fast heartbeats
•         Headache
•         Confusion
•         Muscle weakness
•         Dizziness

Other common side effects may include:

•         Vomiting
•         Diarrhea
•         Feeling weak
•         Feeling very hot
•         Joint pain
•         Bruising
•         Cough

It is possible to experience other Abiraterone side effects that are not listed here. Be sure to contact your doctor if there are any signs of these side effects.