Celbira 250mg Tablet

1. Product Introduction

Celbira 250mg Tablet is a prescription medication that contains Abiraterone Acetate as its active ingredient. It is a highly specialized oral treatment used primarily in the management of prostate cancer, particularly metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). This condition refers to a stage of prostate cancer where the disease continues to progress despite the suppression of testosterone, a hormone that fuels cancer growth.

Abiraterone Acetate in Celbira works by blocking the enzyme CYP17, which plays a crucial role in the production of androgens (male hormones such as testosterone) in the body. By reducing androgen production, this medicine effectively slows or stops the growth of cancer cells in the prostate gland.

Celbira is often prescribed in combination with other treatments such as prednisone or prednisolone, to manage potential side effects and enhance the efficacy of the therapy. It is usually taken on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after meals, as food can significantly affect the absorption of the medication.

This medicine is part of a targeted cancer therapy approach, providing patients with an advanced, hormone-directed treatment that can improve survival outcomes and quality of life.

2. Uses of This Medicine

Celbira 250mg Tablet is used for:

• Treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) – an advanced form of prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and is no longer responsive to hormonal or surgical treatment to lower testosterone.

• Hormone-sensitive metastatic prostate cancer (mHSPC) – in combination with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

• Delayed progression of prostate cancer – when traditional hormonal therapies have stopped being effective.

3. Benefits of This Medicine

Celbira 250mg Tablet offers several significant benefits, particularly for patients with advanced stages of prostate cancer:

• Targeted Hormonal Therapy: Unlike traditional chemotherapy, Celbira directly targets the hormonal pathway involved in cancer growth. This leads to more focused action with fewer systemic side effects.

• Improves Survival Rates: Clinical studies have shown that Abiraterone Acetate helps extend overall survival in patients with metastatic prostate cancer, even those who have undergone prior chemotherapy.

• Delays Cancer Progression: It slows the progression of cancer, reducing the severity of symptoms and providing better control over the disease.

• Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients often experience less pain, improved mobility, and better day-to-day functioning due to a decrease in tumor-related symptoms.

• Convenient Oral Administration: Being an oral tablet, it is easier to take than intravenous chemotherapy, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.

• Reduced Bone Complications: In metastatic cases, prostate cancer often spreads to the bones. Celbira helps minimize skeletal-related events such as fractures or spinal cord compression.

4. Side Effects

Like all medications, Celbira 250mg Tablet may cause side effects. However, not everyone experiences them, and most are manageable with proper medical care. Common and less common side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)

• Fluid retention and swelling (especially in legs and ankles)

• Fatigue or tiredness

• Joint or muscle pain

• Hot flushes

• Liver function abnormalities (elevated liver enzymes)

Serious but Rare Side Effects:

• Adrenal insufficiency (body cannot produce enough corticosteroids)

• Cardiac issues such as irregular heart rhythm or chest pain

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, difficulty breathing)

It is important to regularly monitor liver function, blood pressure, and potassium levels while on this medication. Doctors often prescribe corticosteroids like prednisone alongside Celbira to counteract certain side effects.

Patients should immediately contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms like dizziness, swelling, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or rapid weight gain.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What is Celbira 250mg Tablet used for?
A: Celbira is used to treat advanced prostate cancer, particularly in cases where the disease has progressed despite lowering testosterone levels (mCRPC) or is still hormone-sensitive (mHSPC).

Q2. How should I take Celbira 250mg?
A: Take it on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. It should be swallowed whole with water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.

Q3. Can Celbira be used in combination with other drugs?
A: Yes. It is commonly prescribed alongside prednisone or prednisolone to manage side effects and enhance effectiveness.

Q4. How long do I need to take this medication?
A: The duration of treatment depends on your response to the medicine and your doctor’s assessment. Some patients may take it for several months or longer as part of long-term therapy.

Q5. Are there any foods or medications I should avoid while on Celbira?
A: Avoid taking the tablet with food, especially fatty meals, as it increases drug absorption and may lead to more side effects. Inform your doctor about all the medications you’re taking, as some drugs (e.g., heart medications, corticosteroids, antifungals) can interact with Celbira.

Q6. Can women or children take Celbira 250mg?
A: No, this medicine is strictly intended for adult male patients with prostate cancer. It should be kept away from women and children, especially during pregnancy.

Q7. What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: If you miss a dose and it’s been less than 12 hours, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Q8. Is it safe for patients with liver or kidney problems?
A: Caution is advised. Patients with moderate to severe liver impairment may require dose adjustments or alternative treatment. Always consult your doctor.