Brand Name(S): Zytiga, Yonsa

Zytiga is a brand-name medication that contains abiraterone acetate. The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson launched Zytiga in 2011.

Although a generic version of the 250-mg tablet of abiraterone acetate is available, the 500-mg tablet does not have a generic version in the United States. However, both strength generics are available in Canada.

Generic versions of Zytiga have been launched by Apotex, Pharmascience, Hikma, Mylan, Teva and Indian pharmaceutical company, Cipla.

Dosage forms & Strengths:

• 500 mg Tablet

• 250 mg Tablet

What Is Zytiga Used For?

It is approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat two types of prostate cancer:

• metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC)

• metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (CSPC)

Metastatic means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Both above cancers are considered advanced.

Although Zytiga is not FDA-approved to treat non-metastatic prostate cancer, the American Urological Association recommends Zytiga as an option for patients.

According to findings from the study, Zytiga in combination with low-dose prednisone also significantly lowered PSA levels with a consistent toxicity profile in men with high-risk non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

How Dose Zytiga Work?

Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) is not a form of chemotherapy. It is a hormone therapy medication.

It works by reducing male hormone (androgen) production in the body – hormones like testosterone, that can promote tumor growth in the prostate gland.

Why Does Zytiga Need to Be Given with Prednisone?

You take abiraterone with a steroid called prednisone to help reduce some of the side effects, such as low potassium or high blood pressure.

What Should I Tell Your Doctor Before Taking Zytiga?

You should not use Zytiga if you are allergic to abiraterone.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease

• heart problems, high blood pressure

• a heart attack

• low levels of potassium in your blood

• problems with your adrenal gland or pituitary gland

Zytiga is not for use by women or children.

How Should I Take Zytiga?

Zytiga is a pill, taken by mouth. It is taken once a day.

• It must be taken on an empty stomach (take the pill at least 2 hours after a meal, and do not eat for at least 1 hour after taking the pill)

• It should be taken at approximately the same time each day.

• Prednisone [5 or 10 mg daily] should be taken along with Zytiga.

The amount of Zytiga you receive depends on many factors. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Zytiga (Abiraterone Acetate) ？

The most common side effects of abiraterone acetate include:

• Feeling very tired, lack of energy

• Joint pain, stiffness or swelling.

• High blood pressure

• Nausea

• Swelling in your hands, legs or feet

• Low blood potassium levels

• Hot flashes

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Infected nose, sinuses, or throat (cold)

• Cough

• Headache

• Low red blood cells (anemia)

• High blood cholesterol and triglycerides

• High blood sugar levels

• Urinary tract infections

Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) may cause fertility problems in males, which may affect the ability to father children. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about fertility.