Indicated for: prostate cancer
Route of administration: oral
Substance: abiraterone (antiandrogen)
ATC: L02BX03 (Antineoplastic and immunomodulating agents | Hormone antagonists and related agents | Other hormone antagonists and related agents)
Abiraterone is a medication used in the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called CYP17, which is essential for the production of androgens, hormones that stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Abiraterone is administered alongside prednisone or prednisolone to reduce side effects caused by decreased cortisol levels. Treatment with abiraterone can slow disease progression and improve patients' quality of life.
Common side effects include high blood pressure, hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood), and fluid retention. It is important for patients to undergo regular monitoring of liver function and blood pressure during treatment.
Abiraterone is contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women and is not recommended for use in patients with severe liver impairment.