Finding Zytiga Shouldn't Be This Hard

When you're dealing with advanced prostate cancer, the last thing you need is a medication access problem. But for many patients prescribed Zytiga (Abiraterone Acetate), finding a pharmacy that actually has it in stock can be surprisingly difficult.

Zytiga is a specialty medication, which means it doesn't sit on the shelf at most corner pharmacies. Between specialty distribution networks, prior authorization requirements, and high costs, the path from prescription to pill bottle can have more obstacles than expected.

The good news? There are specific steps you can take right now to find Zytiga faster. Here's how.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Check Pharmacy Stock

One of the fastest ways to find Zytiga in stock is to use a real-time pharmacy availability tool. Medfinder lets you search by medication name and location to see which pharmacies near you currently have Zytiga or generic Abiraterone Acetate available.

Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy and getting the same "we don't carry that" response, Medfinder does the legwork for you. Simply enter "Zytiga" or "Abiraterone Acetate," put in your zip code, and see your options.

This is especially useful if your usual specialty pharmacy is experiencing a delay or if you're looking for a backup option to avoid a gap in treatment.

Tip 2: Ask About Specialty Pharmacies

Because Zytiga is a high-cost oncology medication, it's primarily distributed through specialty pharmacies. These are pharmacies that focus specifically on complex, expensive medications and often have direct supply agreements with manufacturers.

Your oncologist's office almost certainly works with specialty pharmacies and can point you to the right one. In many cases, they can even send your prescription directly to a specialty pharmacy on your behalf.

Benefits of using a specialty pharmacy include:

• Reliable stock: Specialty pharmacies are more likely to have Zytiga consistently available because that's their business model.
• Insurance coordination: Many specialty pharmacies have teams dedicated to handling prior authorizations and insurance appeals.
• Home delivery: Most offer free shipping directly to your home, which eliminates the need to visit a pharmacy in person.
• Patient support: Some provide dedicated care coordinators who check in with you regularly.

If you're not sure which specialty pharmacy to use, ask your doctor's office or call your insurance company's specialty pharmacy line.

Tip 3: Plan Ahead and Refill Early

One of the biggest mistakes patients make is waiting until they're almost out of Zytiga before requesting a refill. With specialty medications, lead times can be longer than expected due to insurance re-authorization, shipping schedules, and stock availability.

Here's a simple timeline to follow:

• Two weeks before you run out: Contact your specialty pharmacy to initiate the refill process.
• 10 days before: Follow up to make sure insurance authorization is in place.
• One week before: Confirm the shipment date and delivery method.

By building in this buffer, you can avoid the panic of running out and scrambling to find an emergency supply.

What If You Still Can't Find Zytiga?

If you've tried the steps above and are still having trouble, here are some additional options to explore.

Ask About Generic Abiraterone Acetate

Generic Abiraterone Acetate contains the same active ingredient as Zytiga and is typically less expensive. Because the cost is lower, some pharmacies that wouldn't stock brand-name Zytiga may carry the generic. Ask your doctor if the generic version is appropriate for your treatment. You can learn more in our article on alternatives to Zytiga.

Consider Yonsa

Yonsa is another brand of Abiraterone Acetate that uses a micronized (fine-particle) tablet formulation. The key difference is that Yonsa can be taken with or without food, while Zytiga must be taken on an empty stomach. If food timing is a challenge or if Yonsa is more readily available, this could be a good option to discuss with your oncologist.

Contact the Manufacturer

Janssen, the manufacturer of Zytiga, operates the Janssen CarePath program. In addition to savings support, their team can sometimes help locate pharmacies with stock or expedite supply. You can reach Janssen CarePath at 1-877-227-3728.

Reach Out to Patient Advocacy Organizations

Organizations like the Patient Advocate Foundation and CancerCare can sometimes help patients navigate access issues, including finding pharmacies with stock, appealing insurance denials, and connecting you with financial assistance.

Talk to Your Doctor About Timing

If there's going to be a gap in your Zytiga supply, let your oncologist know right away. They need to be aware of any interruptions in your treatment so they can adjust your care plan if necessary. In some cases, your doctor may be able to provide samples or connect you with a hospital pharmacy that has stock.

Never skip doses or stop taking Zytiga without talking to your doctor first. And remember — you should always continue taking your prednisone as directed, even if there's a delay in getting your Zytiga refill.

Final Thoughts

Finding Zytiga doesn't have to be a full-time job. By using tools like Medfinder, working with a specialty pharmacy, and planning your refills in advance, you can take a lot of the stress out of the process.

If you're wondering why Zytiga is so difficult to find in the first place, our article on why Zytiga is so hard to find explains the full picture. And if cost is a concern, don't miss our guide on how to save money on Zytiga.