Zytiga Side Effects: What You Should Know

If you've been prescribed Zytiga (Abiraterone Acetate) for prostate cancer, understanding the side effects is an important part of your treatment. Knowing what's normal and what's a warning sign can help you stay safe and get the most from your medication.

This guide covers the common side effects of Zytiga, the serious ones to watch for, and when you should call your doctor right away.

What Is Zytiga?

Zytiga is a prescription medication used to treat metastatic prostate cancer. It works by blocking an enzyme called CYP17A1, which your body needs to make testosterone. Since prostate cancer cells often rely on testosterone to grow, Zytiga helps slow or stop cancer progression. For a deeper look at how the drug works, see our guide on Zytiga's mechanism of action.

Zytiga is always taken alongside Prednisone, a low-dose steroid that helps manage some of the hormonal side effects.

Common Side Effects of Zytiga

Most people taking Zytiga will experience some side effects. Many of these are manageable and tend to improve over time. The most common include:

• Joint swelling or pain — This is one of the most frequently reported side effects. Over-the-counter pain relievers and gentle movement can help.
• Hot flashes — A result of lowered testosterone levels. These are uncomfortable but not dangerous.
• Diarrhea — Usually mild. Stay hydrated and talk to your doctor if it becomes severe.
• Swelling (edema) — You may notice swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles. This is related to fluid retention.
• Muscle discomfort — Aches and pains in muscles are common.
• High blood pressure — Your doctor will monitor this closely. You may need blood pressure medication.
• Low potassium (hypokalemia) — Often caught on routine blood tests. Your doctor may prescribe potassium supplements.
• Urinary tract infections — Report any burning or frequent urination to your care team.
• Cough — A mild, persistent cough may develop.
• Fatigue — Feeling tired is very common. Rest when you need to, and pace your activities.

These side effects are part of how Zytiga affects your body's hormone levels and overall chemistry. Your care team can help you manage them so they don't interfere too much with daily life.

Serious Side Effects: When to Call Your Doctor

Some side effects of Zytiga are more serious and need medical attention right away. Contact your doctor or go to the emergency room if you experience:

Liver Problems (Hepatotoxicity)

Zytiga can cause liver damage. This is one of the most important things to monitor. Call your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine
• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Pain in the upper right side of your abdomen

Your doctor will run blood tests regularly to check your liver function — every two weeks for the first three months, then monthly after that.

Adrenal Gland Problems (Adrenocortical Insufficiency)

Because Zytiga blocks hormone production, it can affect your adrenal glands. Symptoms include:

• Extreme tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness when standing
• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• Darkening of the skin

This is why you take Prednisone with Zytiga — it replaces some of the hormones your adrenal glands can't make. Never stop Prednisone without talking to your doctor.

Heart Problems

Zytiga may cause or worsen heart conditions, including:

• Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation)
• Heart failure (shortness of breath, swelling, rapid weight gain)
• Chest pain

Seek emergency care for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or fainting.

Severe High Blood Pressure

While mild blood pressure increases are common, severely elevated blood pressure can be dangerous. Regular monitoring is essential.

Severe Low Potassium

Very low potassium levels can cause muscle weakness, cramping, or irregular heartbeat. This is caught through routine blood work.

Side Effects in Specific Populations

Zytiga is not for use in women. Pregnant women should not even handle broken or crushed Zytiga tablets, as the drug can cause harm to a developing fetus.

If you have liver problems, your doctor may lower your dose. Zytiga is used at a reduced dose (250 mg daily) in patients with moderate liver impairment and is not recommended for patients with severe liver impairment.

Patients with a history of heart disease should discuss the risks carefully with their oncologist before starting Zytiga.

How to Manage Side Effects

Here are some practical tips for managing Zytiga side effects:

• Keep all monitoring appointments. Blood tests catch problems like liver damage and low potassium early, before you feel symptoms.
• Take Zytiga on an empty stomach. This is critical — taking it with food increases absorption and can increase side effects. Wait at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. Learn more about proper Zytiga dosing.
• Never skip Prednisone. It protects against adrenal insufficiency. Take it exactly as prescribed.
• Track your symptoms. Keep a daily log of how you feel — this helps your doctor make adjustments.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, especially if you're experiencing diarrhea.
• Report new symptoms promptly. Don't wait for your next scheduled visit if something feels wrong.
• Check for drug interactions. Some medications can make side effects worse. Review our guide on Zytiga drug interactions.

Final Thoughts

Side effects are a reality of Zytiga treatment, but most are manageable with the right support. The key is staying informed, keeping up with your monitoring schedule, and communicating openly with your care team.

If you're having trouble finding Zytiga at your pharmacy, Medfinder can help you locate it in stock near you. And if cost is a concern, explore savings programs and patient assistance options that may help.