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When considering the use of Abiraterone (Zytiga), it is crucial to be aware of several potential risks and safety precautions. Below is a summary of important safety information that should be reviewed carefully. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

• Fluid Retention and Heart Complications: Abiraterone may alter hormone levels, leading to fluid retention, heart rhythm changes, and low potassium levels. These issues can be particularly serious for individuals with existing heart conditions, such as heart failure or a recent heart attack. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and potassium levels is necessary, and a steroid may be prescribed to minimize these risks. Notify your provider if you experience symptoms like dizziness, rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness, confusion, or swelling in your extremities.

• Reduced Stress Hormone Levels: The medication can result in decreased production of stress hormones. To counteract this, a steroid such as prednisone or methylprednisolone will be prescribed. Sudden discontinuation of the steroid, or excessive stress, may lead to insufficient stress hormone levels. Symptoms to watch for include weight loss, fatigue, confusion, or abdominal pain. It is important to report these to your provider immediately.

• Liver Damage: Abiraterone may cause liver damage, especially during the initial three months of treatment. Regular blood tests will be conducted to monitor liver health. Be alert for symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, abdominal pain, or jaundice, and inform your provider promptly if they occur.

• Risks to Unborn Babies: Animal studies suggest that Abiraterone can harm an unborn child or increase miscarriage risk. If your partner can become pregnant, use birth control such as condoms during treatment and for three weeks after the final dose. Your partner should avoid handling the tablets to prevent exposure. Notify your provider immediately if pregnancy occurs during this period.

• Low Blood Sugar: Individuals with diabetes taking medications like pioglitazone or repaglinide may experience low blood sugar when using Abiraterone. Blood sugar levels will be monitored closely, and medication doses may need adjustment. Symptoms of low blood sugar include sweating, shaking, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or dizziness; report these to your provider right away.

This information is intended to ensure safe and effective use of Abiraterone (Zytiga). Always adhere to your healthcare provider's instructions and report any adverse effects promptly.

When taking this medication, you may experience some common side effects, which are usually mild. These include tiredness, headache, hot flashes, joint pain or swelling, muscle discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose or sore throat. If these effects persist or worsen, it's important to consult your healthcare provider for advice.

There are also other side effects that have been reported, such as heartburn, fever, trouble sleeping, groin pain, and symptoms related to urinary tract infections. Although these are generally not serious, contact your healthcare provider if you experience them, especially if they become severe. Some individuals may experience changes in heart rhythm, chest pain, or swelling in the body due to fluid buildup.

In rare cases, this medication can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include severe dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or signs of liver damage like persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Additionally, watch for symptoms of dangerously low stress hormone levels, such as a fast heartbeat, confusion, muscle weakness, or leg pain and swelling. An allergic reaction is also rare but serious, so seek urgent help if you notice rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe dizziness.

Always monitor your health and consult a healthcare provider if you notice any unusual or severe symptoms. Remember, while side effects are possible, many individuals use this medication without experiencing significant issues.

Abiraterone, also known as Zytiga, can interact with various medications and supplements. It is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some drugs, such as Dasabuvir, Eliglustat, and Selexipag, should generally not be used with Abiraterone. Your doctor might decide to avoid using Abiraterone in such cases or adjust your other medications accordingly.

Additionally, there are drugs that usually should not be combined with Abiraterone unless necessary. If required, your doctor may adjust the dosage or frequency of one or both medications. These include Abametapir, Amiodarone, Amphetamine, Apalutamide, Benzphetamine, Carbamazepine, and others, including St. John's Wort and Radium Ra 223 Dichloride. These substances can alter how Abiraterone is processed in your body, potentially impacting its effectiveness.

Moreover, when Abiraterone is used with medications like Dextromethorphan or Repaglinide, there may be a heightened risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider may need to modify the dosage or administration schedule to ensure safety and efficacy. Always follow your doctor's guidance when taking Abiraterone with any other medications.