Abiraterone

What is Abiraterone 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.

How should I take or use Abiraterone?

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 forget to take or use Abiraterone?

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 precautions should I take when taking or using Abiraterone?

• 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 are some common side effects of Abiraterone?

• 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

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 handle Abiraterone safely?

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

What should I do if I overdose?

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