Finding a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Zytiga

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, you may have heard about Zytiga (Abiraterone Acetate) as a treatment option. But Zytiga isn't something your family doctor can prescribe. You'll need a specialist — and finding the right one matters.

This guide walks you through what type of doctor prescribes Zytiga, how to find one near you, and what to expect at your first appointment.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Zytiga?

Zytiga is a specialty medication used to treat metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). Because of its complexity, only certain specialists prescribe it:

• Medical oncologists — Cancer doctors who specialize in drug-based treatments. This is the most common type of doctor to prescribe Zytiga.
• Urologic oncologists — Surgeons who specialize in cancers of the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including prostate cancer.
• Urologists — Some urologists who focus on prostate cancer may also prescribe Zytiga, though they often refer patients to a medical oncologist for this type of treatment.

Your primary care doctor or general urologist can refer you to one of these specialists. If you already have a cancer care team, ask them whether Zytiga might be right for your situation.

How to Find a Zytiga Provider Near You

There are several ways to find a doctor who prescribes Zytiga:

1. Ask Your Current Doctor for a Referral

If you already have a urologist or primary care doctor, they can refer you to a medical oncologist in your area who has experience with Zytiga and other prostate cancer treatments.

2. Search Cancer Center Directories

Major cancer centers and hospital networks have online provider directories. Look for medical oncologists who specialize in genitourinary (GU) cancers — this is the specialty area that covers prostate cancer. NCI-designated cancer centers are a great place to start.

3. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Your insurance company's website will have a directory of in-network specialists. Search for "medical oncology" near your ZIP code. This helps ensure your visits and treatments are covered.

4. Check with Specialty Pharmacies

Since Zytiga is often dispensed through specialty pharmacies, these pharmacies sometimes have relationships with prescribing oncologists and can point you in the right direction.

5. Contact the Manufacturer

Janssen (the maker of Zytiga) offers patient support programs through Janssen CarePath. Their support team can help connect you with prescribers and navigate insurance requirements.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Once you've found a specialist, here's what a typical first visit looks like:

• Medical history review — Your doctor will review your prostate cancer diagnosis, prior treatments, and overall health.
• Blood tests — Zytiga requires regular monitoring of liver function, potassium levels, and blood pressure. Expect baseline labs before starting treatment.
• Discussion of treatment options — Your oncologist will explain how Zytiga works, what side effects to watch for, and how it compares to alternatives like Enzalutamide (Xtandi).
• Insurance and cost discussion — Zytiga can cost $12,000 to $14,000 per month for the brand name. Your care team should discuss savings programs and patient assistance options.
• Prednisone co-prescription — Zytiga is always taken with Prednisone (5 mg twice daily), so your doctor will prescribe both.

Bring a list of all medications you currently take, including supplements, so your doctor can check for drug interactions.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once your doctor prescribes Zytiga, the process isn't quite as simple as going to your local pharmacy. Here's what to expect:

• Prior authorization — Most insurance plans require prior authorization for Zytiga. Your doctor's office will typically handle this, but it can take a few days to a couple of weeks.
• Specialty pharmacy — Zytiga is usually filled through a specialty pharmacy rather than a retail pharmacy. Your oncologist's office will help set this up.
• Regular monitoring — You'll need blood tests every two weeks for the first three months, then monthly after that. Your doctor will check liver function, potassium, and blood pressure at every visit.
• Finding Zytiga in stock — If you have trouble locating Zytiga, Medfinder can help you find pharmacies with Zytiga in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right doctor is one of the most important steps in your Zytiga treatment journey. A medical oncologist or urologic oncologist who specializes in prostate cancer will have the expertise to prescribe Zytiga, monitor your health, and adjust your treatment as needed.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, get second opinions, and advocate for yourself. If you're ready to start looking for Zytiga, Medfinder can help you find it in stock at pharmacies near you.