Zytiga Tablets

This medication is used along with prednisone to treat men with prostate cancer that has spread to other areas of the body. Abiraterone belongs to a class of drugs known as anti-androgens (anti-testosterone). Testosterone, a natural hormone, helps prostate cancer to grow and spread. Abiraterone works by blocking the production of testosterone, thereby slowing the growth and spread of prostate cancer.

How to use Zytiga
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking abiraterone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food) as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Taking abiraterone with food greatly increases the amount of this drug in your body and increases the risk of side effects.

Swallow whole. Do not crush or chew before swallowing. Pregnant women should wear gloves if handling the tablets. If the tablet is crushed or broken, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle it or breathe the dust from it (see also Precautions section).

Side Effects
Headache, hot flushes, joint pain, heartburn or cold-like symptoms may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high. Your doctor may control your blood pressure with medication.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: increased urination, painful urination, fast/irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps/weakness, leg pain, swelling in legs/feet, bone fractures.