ZYTIGA® (abiraterone acetate) Blocks Androgen Production at 3 Sources — the Testes, the Adrenal Glands, and the Tumor Itself.
ZYTIGA® works by interrupting the androgen-making process at an important step thereby reducing the amount of androgen being made.
The Role of Androgen
The male body produces male hormones called androgens. Research has shown that androgens help feed the tumor. Androgens, such as testosterone, are primarily made by your testes and your adrenal glands. However, in men with CRPC, androgen is also made by an additional source — the tumor itself.
Reducing the production of androgen is key to helping you and your doctor manage your illness because even a small amount of androgen may activate the tumor.
See How ZYTIGA® Reduces Androgen Production
For an easy-to-follow illustration of how ZYTIGA® works, watch this video.
ZYTIGA® may cause serious side effects including:
High blood pressure (hypertension), low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia), and fluid retention (edema). Tell your doctor if you get any of the following symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Fast heartbeats
- Feel faint or lightheaded
- Headache
- Confusion
- Muscle weakness
- Pain in your legs
- Swelling in your legs or feet
Liver problems. Your doctor will do blood tests to check your liver before treatment with ZYTIGA® and during treatment with ZYTIGA®.
ZYTIGA® is an oral medication that you can take at home.
