Abiraterone is a hormone-therapy tablet for prostate cancer that has spread and is still being driven by male hormones (androgens). It is used for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and for newly diagnosed high-risk metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, always alongside a low dose of a steroid (prednisone or prednisolone) and usually while testosterone-lowering treatment continues.
Prostate cancer cells feed on testosterone. Standard hormone treatment stops the testicles making it, but the adrenal glands and the tumour itself can still produce small amounts. Abiraterone blocks the enzyme that makes androgens everywhere in the body, cutting off that remaining supply.
It is taken once a day on an empty stomach. Blood pressure, potassium and liver function are checked regularly because blocking androgen production also affects other adrenal hormones — which is why the steroid is prescribed with it. Abiraterone is a prescription-only medicine; a valid prescription must be provided at checkout.