Starting Abiraterone (Zytiga)

Went into the VA Hospital in DC for my monthly Zometa and to get my PSA checked. Quite honestly I expected it to go up and was not disappointed, well heck sure I was but it was what I was expecting.

PSA came in at 149. Spoke with my oncologist who is head of Oncology for the VA facility in DC. I knew from all I've learned here that the next steps were going to be some chemo. I really did not want to go on Docetaxel (taxotere) but would if thats what my Doc said would be for the best. But he said he would prefer I went to Abiraterone. I agreed:)

I'm starting Abiraterone (zytiga) tomorrow - 4 tabs once a day. A single tab is 250 mg.

Will also be taking two Prednisone. One in the morning and one in the evening.

Anyone have any guidance on Abiraterone (zytiga) and Prednisone? Expected side effects? Anything?

On 3 April I go in have blood work to make sure the Zytiga is not hurting liver functions.
Will also have a "trace" PET scan done as they saw something in my right lung. The Pulmonary doctor has started me on a anti-biotic to rule out any infection before actually doing the scan. I asked well what if it is cancer? He said very calmly we will take care of it, but lets not even talk about "what if" until we do the scans. - Ok I'm good with that:)

25 April will be next PSA and Zometa (my monthly) and Eligard (three month). Assuming the PSA stays the same on goes down will continue with the Abiraterone (zytiga).

The date actually fell on 23 April, but I'll just be coming back from GFMPH Cajun style. I told my transfusion nurse about GFMPH and she said "Thats really important! The 25th is fine"

I was a little concerned starting with Abiraterone before Docetaxel (taxotere) could be problematic if the Abiraterone (zytiga) does not work as so many medicines are stipulated for use "after chemo failure". My oncologist said not to worry about that he will make sure I get whatever is needed as soon as it is available

We also spoke about MDV-3100, my Oncologist is looking forward to its approval. once it is approved I'll probably go on that also.

I brought Provenge up - My Doc said Very Expensive, like $100,000 where Zytiga is $6,000 a month. ALSO - Provenge can't be used if the prostate cancer critters have already spread to the bones. I did not argue that with the Doctor but I've not seen anything that says that. Anyone know if Provenge can't be used if the PCa has spread to the bones?

I /will/ beat this thing! Its just a number!

Bud

Good luck to you Raddad, hope it is worthy and wish you decent side effects. You can fill us in on how it works for you, with any drug results vary. I tried contacting the FDA source mentioned on another forum concerning MDV3100 and early access program, but the email didn't help answer that at all and just mentioned to contact them about other possible alternatives, so hurry up and wait. My doc is looking into that one also and I may hear something on it, I wish to try that one when available.

Raddad,

I am three months into my Abiraterone+Prednisone+Lupron. My liver function and blood work have all been good. My last blood test had my Potassium level falling in the low normal range, so I have started a Potossium supplement just to be on the safe side. My advice is to make sure you have regular blood work, and your doctors are monitoring the results closely.

As far as side effects, I have mild hot flashes which are common for HT. I had spells of very mild nausea early on, but this has subsided. I am not sure if it was the abiraterone or the prednisone. I am on a single 5mg dose of prednisone which I moved around from morning, afternoon, and settling on after dinner. This seems to fit the best for me. My blood pressure is controlled under medication, so keep a close eye on your BP. Keep a close eye out for swelling in the joints.

I find daily exercise is crucial as well as a good diet. If I miss a few days exercise, I start to feel fatigued and fuzzy - I am not sure if this is abiraterone, or just androgen deprivation in general.

Good-luck, Winter.

WS -- i got some pretty bad nausea from lupron.  seems like it would hit me in the late mornings.  i almost pulled over on the freeway one morning because i thought i was going to hurl, and i haven't thrown up in  21 years!

ed

 

Bud, so pleased thatbyiu still will make the GFMPH. You will have lots of infofornus and you will find great support from your GFMPH friends. Hang in there.

Cajun Jeff