What Is Zytiga?

Zytiga (Abiraterone Acetate) is a prescription medication used to treat metastatic prostate cancer by blocking the body's production of testosterone, a hormone that fuels prostate cancer cell growth.

Zytiga belongs to a class of drugs called androgen biosynthesis inhibitors. It was originally developed by Janssen Biotech (a Johnson & Johnson company) and has been a key part of prostate cancer treatment for over a decade.

If you've recently been prescribed Zytiga or are researching it for a loved one, this guide covers everything you need to know — from what it treats to how to take it and what it costs.

What Is Zytiga Used For?

Zytiga is FDA-approved for two types of advanced prostate cancer:

• Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) — Prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and continues to grow despite low testosterone from hormone therapy or surgical castration.
• Metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) — Prostate cancer that has spread and is still responding to hormone therapy but is considered high-risk for progression.

In both cases, Zytiga is used in combination with Prednisone (a low-dose corticosteroid) and alongside ongoing androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) — either a GnRH analog or after surgical castration.

For more detail on how Zytiga works at the cellular level, see our guide on Zytiga's mechanism of action.

How Is Zytiga Taken?

Zytiga comes in tablet form and is taken once daily by mouth. Here are the key dosing details:

Standard Dose

• Zytiga: 1,000 mg once daily (four 250 mg tablets or two 500 mg tablets)
• Yonsa (an alternative Abiraterone Acetate formulation): 500 mg once daily (four 125 mg tablets)

How to Take It

• Take on an empty stomach. This is critical for the Zytiga formulation. Take it at least 1 hour before eating or 2 hours after eating. Food dramatically increases absorption and can lead to increased side effects or toxicity.
• Swallow tablets whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or split them.
• Take Prednisone as directed — typically 5 mg twice daily with Zytiga.
• Take it at the same time every day to maintain consistent drug levels.

Note: Yonsa uses a different formulation and can be taken with or without food. Your doctor will specify which product you're using.

Reduced Dose for Liver Impairment

Patients with moderate liver impairment (Child-Pugh Class B) take a reduced dose of 250 mg once daily. Zytiga is not recommended for patients with severe liver impairment.

Who Should Not Take Zytiga?

Zytiga is not right for everyone. It should not be used by:

• Women — Zytiga is only for men with prostate cancer.
• Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant — Should not handle crushed or broken tablets, as Abiraterone Acetate can harm a developing fetus.
• Patients with severe liver problems (Child-Pugh Class C) — Zytiga is contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment.
• Anyone with a known allergy to Abiraterone Acetate or any ingredient in Zytiga.

Tell your doctor about all medical conditions, especially liver disease, heart problems, or a history of adrenal gland issues. Also share a complete list of your medications — some drugs interact with Zytiga.

How Much Does Zytiga Cost?

Zytiga is an expensive medication. Here's what to expect:

• Brand-name Zytiga: $12,000 to $14,000 per month
• Generic Abiraterone Acetate: $500 to $3,000 per month, depending on the pharmacy

Most insurance plans and Medicare Part D cover Zytiga or generic Abiraterone Acetate, but prior authorization is usually required, and specialty pharmacy distribution is common.

Ways to Save

• Janssen CarePath Savings Program — Commercially insured patients may pay as little as $0 per month.
• Johnson & Johnson Patient Assistance Foundation (JJPAF) — Provides Zytiga at no cost to qualifying uninsured or underinsured patients.
• PAN Foundation, HealthWell Foundation, Patient Advocate Foundation — Additional assistance programs for eligible patients.
• Generic Abiraterone Acetate — Switching to generic can save thousands per month.

For a complete breakdown of savings options, see our guide on how to save money on Zytiga.

Final Thoughts

Zytiga is a proven treatment for advanced prostate cancer that has helped many patients manage their disease. Understanding how to take it correctly, what side effects to expect, and how to afford it are all important parts of your treatment journey.

If you're having trouble finding Zytiga at your pharmacy, Medfinder can help you locate it in stock near you. And if you need help finding a prescribing doctor, check out our guide on how to find a doctor who can prescribe Zytiga.