Abritiga 250mg Tablet

1. Product Introduction

Abritiga 250mg Tablet is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, particularly in patients who have not responded well to other treatments. The active ingredient in Abritiga is Abiraterone Acetate, a medication that belongs to a group of drugs called androgen biosynthesis inhibitors. It works by reducing the production of androgens (male hormones) in the body, which are known to fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Prostate cancer is often driven by androgens like testosterone. Abritiga effectively blocks the enzyme CYP17, which is essential for the synthesis of testosterone, thereby helping to stop the progression of the cancer. This medication is especially beneficial for treating metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC).

Abritiga is usually given along with a low-dose corticosteroid such as prednisone, which helps prevent certain side effects caused by hormonal changes and enhances the effectiveness of the treatment. It is administered orally and should be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

2. Uses of This Medicine

Abritiga 250mg Tablet is primarily used for:

• Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) – prostate cancer that continues to grow and spread despite low testosterone levels.

• Metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) – newly diagnosed prostate cancer that has spread but still responds to hormone therapy.

• It is often used in combination with prednisone or prednisolone to improve treatment outcomes and reduce side effects.

3. Benefits of This Medicine

Abritiga 250mg Tablet offers multiple clinical and quality-of-life benefits for men dealing with advanced prostate cancer:

• Effective Hormone Suppression: Abritiga significantly lowers androgen levels, which helps in controlling the growth and spread of cancer cells.

• Delays Disease Progression: It helps in slowing down the progression of the disease, especially in men with metastatic or hormone-resistant cancer.

• Improves Survival: Clinical studies have shown that Abiraterone Acetate can improve both overall survival and progression-free survival in patients with advanced prostate cancer.

• Oral Convenience: Unlike intravenous chemotherapy, Abritiga is taken orally, making it a convenient and less invasive option for long-term treatment.

• Delays Need for Chemotherapy: In many cases, it postpones the requirement of more aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy, providing patients with a better quality of life.

• Reduces Cancer-Related Symptoms: It can help alleviate pain, urinary problems, and fatigue associated with prostate cancer, especially when the disease has spread to bones or other areas.

• Well-Studied and Trusted: Abiraterone Acetate is a well-established and widely-used medicine in cancer care with proven safety and efficacy.

4. Side Effects

Like all medications, Abritiga 250mg may cause side effects. Most of these are manageable and diminish as the body adjusts to treatment, especially when taken with corticosteroids.

Common Side Effects:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)

• Fluid retention (swelling of ankles, feet, or hands)

• Fatigue or tiredness

• Joint or muscle pain

• Hot flushes

• Increased liver enzymes

Serious Side Effects (Rare):

• Heart-related issues (irregular heartbeat, chest pain, heart failure)

• Liver toxicity

• Adrenal gland problems

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, breathing difficulties)

Important Monitoring:

• Liver function tests

• Blood pressure

• Potassium levels

• Heart function (especially in older adults or those with a cardiac history)

Patients should inform their doctor immediately if they experience chest pain, breathing difficulty, fainting, or unusual swelling.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What is Abritiga 250mg Tablet used for?
A: It is used to treat advanced prostate cancer, especially in cases where the cancer has spread and is not responding to traditional hormone therapy.

Q2. How should I take Abritiga?
A: Take Abritiga on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after eating. It is usually taken once daily, along with prednisone as prescribed by your doctor.

Q3. Can I take this medicine with food?
A: No. Taking Abritiga with food can increase its absorption and raise the risk of side effects. Always take it on an empty stomach.

Q4. Is Abritiga safe for women or children?
A: No. This medication is strictly for adult men with prostate cancer. It should not be used or handled by women who are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Q5. Can this medicine be used with other treatments?
A: Yes. Abritiga is often used in combination with corticosteroids and, in some cases, with chemotherapy or other cancer treatments, as advised by your oncologist.

Q6. Will I need regular medical tests while using Abritiga?
A: Yes. Your doctor will monitor your liver function, potassium levels, and blood pressure regularly to ensure the medication is safe and effective.

Q7. What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Q8. Are there any special precautions while using this medicine?
A: Yes. Inform your doctor about any existing heart, liver, or kidney conditions. Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medicine as it may interfere with the drug’s effects.

Q9. How long will I need to take Abritiga?
A: Treatment duration varies depending on the progression of the cancer and how well you respond. Your doctor will decide the length of therapy based on regular check-ups.