What it does
Aberaterone is a medication used to treat prostate cancer by reducing hormone levels that fuel cancer growth.
Commonly used for: prostate cancer, advanced prostate cancer
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Source: Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority · fetched 2026-03-11 23:48:40 · updated 2026-09-24 03:00:47
About this medicine
Aberaterone is a medication used to treat prostate cancer by reducing hormone levels that fuel cancer growth.
What it treats
- prostate cancer
- advanced prostate cancer
How it works
It works by blocking the production of androgens, which are hormones that can promote the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Who it's for
This medication is for men who have prostate cancer that has spread or is not responding to other treatments.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: aberaterone
Abiraterone is an oral medication primarily used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It inhibits the production of androgens, including testosterone, which can fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells. Abiraterone is typically used in conjunction with prednisone to manage hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant metastatic prostate cancer.
Indications
- Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer
- Metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer
Dosage
Children: Not indicated for paediatric use.
Adults: Refer to specific prescribing guidelines as doses may vary based on clinical circumstances.
Mechanism of action
Abiraterone acts as a selective irreversible inhibitor of the enzyme CYP17A1, which is crucial for the biosynthesis of androgens. By inhibiting this enzyme, abiraterone effectively decreases the levels of testosterone and other androgens in the body, thereby reducing tumor growth and proliferation driven by these hormones.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of abiraterone include a significant reduction in serum testosterone levels, which is directly correlated with clinical responses in patients with prostate cancer. The lowering of androgen levels helps to slow disease progression and can lead to improvements in symptoms associated with advanced prostate cancer.
Pharmacokinetics
Abiraterone is absorbed well after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 2 hours post-dose. It is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP3A4, and has a half-life of about 12 hours. The drug is eliminated predominantly through feces, with only a small fraction excreted in urine. Food intake can significantly affect its absorption, thus it is recommended to be taken on an empty stomach.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to abiraterone or any of its components
- Severe liver impairment
- Pregnancy
Adverse effects
- Hypertension
- Hypokalemia
- Fluid retention
- Liver function abnormalities
- Fatigue
- Hot flushes
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Interactions
- CYP2D6 substrates
- CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers
- Anticoagulants (increased risk of bleeding)
- Corticosteroids (may require adjustment in dosage)
Precautions
- Monitor blood pressure regularly
- Periodic liver function tests are recommended
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease
- Caution in patients with a history of adrenal insufficiency
Pregnancy
Abiraterone is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
It is not known if abiraterone is excreted in human milk. A decision should be made to discontinue breastfeeding or to discontinue the drug.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets: 250 mg
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.