This drug is widely used for anticancer medication purposes. Usually, it is paired with another drug known as prednisone for treating prostate cancer, which has started to spread to other body parts.
In addition to this, the drug is also used in those patients who do not respond to most other types of treatment. It is often seen sold under the name of a brand, Zytiga.
Abirakast (Abiraterone acetate) is known for blocking the growth of the male hormone testosterone, thus slowing the spread of prostate cancer. It won’t necessarily treat prostate cancer; however, it will help in keeping it under control. At the same time, Abirakast (Abiraterone acetate) is also used for delaying symptoms like fatigue and pain.
Who can take Abirakast (Abiraterone acetate)?
Children or women should not consume the drug Abirakast (Abiraterone acetate). Since it is a type of treatment for advanced prostate cancer, it is given to those men who have stopped responding to other kinds of treatment, including hormone therapy.
If one cannot undergo chemotherapy, then in some cases, doctors might offer the patients this drug. If you have undergone operations for heart or liver problems, then you should first consult your doctor about taking it. Similarly, people that have a history of adrenal problems or pituitary problems, should do the same before continuing treatment with Abirakast (Abiraterone acetate).
Pregnant women or those that are planning to become pregnant should consult a doctor, as the drug can cause harm to the baby and may result in miscarriage. In the course of treatment, women should use birth control methods to avoid pregnancy of their partner.
What is the impact of the drug in treatment?
It is consumed in the form of tablets – two tablets are taken a day as part of the treatment. The patient has to swallow these whole along with water. While consuming, the tablets should not be broken in half or chewed.
These tablets are to be consumed on an empty stomach, and you should make sure they are taken at least two hours since the last meal.
