What is abiraterone acetate used for?
Abiraterone, known as Abiraterone Acetate, is a drug used primarily to treat prostate cancer, particularly when it has spread and is resistant to testosterone-lowering treatments. It falls under the category of androgen biosynthesis inhibitors. Abiraterone operates by blocking the CYP17 enzyme, essential in androgen production in the testes, adrenal glands, and prostate tumor tissue. By reducing androgen levels, it can impede or stop the growth of prostate cancer cells.
The medication is taken orally and the specific dosage is tailored by an oncologist, taking into account the patient's health and cancer stage. Common side effects include fatigue, joint pain, edema, hot flushes, gastrointestinal issues, hypertension, and urinary infections. To mitigate its impact on cortisol levels, corticosteroids are often prescribed alongside.
Abiraterone's efficacy has been demonstrated in clinical trials, particularly in extending survival in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, leading to its approval by regulatory bodies like the FDA. However, it's not suitable for all patients, especially those with significant liver damage, and requires monitoring of blood pressure, electrolytes, and liver function.
The introduction of abiraterone has notably influenced the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, providing another option for patients with castration-resistant forms of the disease. Despite its benefits, it should always be administered under professional medical supervision.
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