Specialty Pharmacy Services
Zytiga (abiraterone)
Oral Tablet · Once Daily · Empty Stomach
Zytiga (abiraterone) is a hormone therapy used to treat metastatic prostate cancer in combination with prednisone. Accord Specialty Pharmacy provides Zytiga with prior authorization support, copay assistance coordination, and doorstep delivery.
Drug at a Glance
- Drug Class Androgen Biosynthesis Inhibitor (CYP17 Inhibitor)
- Generic Name Abiraterone acetate
- Brand Name Zytiga®
- Route Oral tablet, once daily (empty stomach)
- Manufacturer Janssen Biotech (brand) / multiple generics
Clinically Reviewed By · Accord Clinical Team, PharmD, RPh
Zytiga (Abiraterone) at a Glance
| Feature | Zytiga (Abiraterone) |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Abiraterone acetate |
| Brand Name | Zytiga® |
| Drug Class | Androgen Biosynthesis Inhibitor (CYP17 Inhibitor) |
| FDA Approved For | Metastatic castration-resistant and castration-sensitive prostate cancer, with prednisone |
| FDA Approved (Year) | 2011 |
| Dosage Form | Oral tablet, once daily, on an empty stomach |
| Available Generic | Yes |
| Specialty Pharmacy Required | Often required by insurance |
| Prior Authorization | Frequently required |
| Copay Assistance Available | Yes, for eligible commercially insured patients |
| Home Delivery | Available through Accord Specialty Pharmacy |
FDA-Approved Uses
What Zytiga (Abiraterone) Is Used For
Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
mCRPCCastration-resistant prostate cancer continues to grow despite standard androgen deprivation therapy. When the disease spreads to other parts of the body and stops responding to initial hormonal treatment, it is classified as mCRPC. Zytiga is approved in combination with prednisone and has been shown to improve overall survival in this setting.1,2
- Used in combination with prednisone
- Typically used alongside a GnRH analog or following surgical castration
- Improves overall survival in mCRPC
Metastatic High-Risk Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer
mCSPCCastration-sensitive prostate cancer still responds to androgen deprivation therapy. Zytiga is approved for metastatic high-risk castration-sensitive disease in combination with prednisone and a GnRH analog, improving outcomes in this earlier stage of metastatic disease.2
- Used in combination with prednisone and a GnRH analog
- High-risk disease with metastatic spread
- Improves outcomes compared to ADT alone
Your oncologist is the right person to determine which indication applies to your diagnosis and how Zytiga fits into your overall treatment plan. Learn more about prostate cancer treatment from the National Cancer Institute ↗, or read about Oncology specialty pharmacy services →
What Is Zytiga (Abiraterone)?
Zytiga (abiraterone) is a hormone therapy that targets testosterone production at its source. Prostate cancer cells depend on androgens to grow — and even after standard hormonal therapy has reduced testosterone to very low levels, some cancer cells can continue producing their own or remain active under low-androgen conditions. Abiraterone is designed to address this by blocking testosterone production more completely.2
Abiraterone works by inhibiting an enzyme called CYP17, which is required for testosterone synthesis in the testes, adrenal glands, and prostate tumor tissue itself. By blocking this enzyme, abiraterone significantly reduces androgen levels throughout the body, slowing or stopping cancer growth.2 Zytiga is always prescribed alongside prednisone — this is intentional, not incidental. Prednisone helps counterbalance the hormonal effects abiraterone causes on the adrenal glands and reduces the risk of related side effects.
Zytiga must be taken on an empty stomach. Food, particularly fatty food, significantly increases absorption and can raise the risk of side effects. Take your dose at least two hours after a meal and wait at least one hour before eating again.2 Accord manages the coordination between your oncologist, your insurance plan, and the assistance programs that help make treatment accessible. Learn how Accord supports patients →
Zytiga Side Effects and What to Watch For
Like all specialty oncology medications, Zytiga and abiraterone can cause side effects. Your oncologist will review what to watch for before you begin treatment, and regular monitoring is a standard part of therapy.
Because abiraterone reduces androgen levels throughout the body and affects the adrenal glands, it can cause a characteristic set of side effects related to these hormonal changes, including fluid retention, elevated blood pressure, and low potassium levels.2 These are among the reasons prednisone is prescribed alongside Zytiga. Liver function is also monitored regularly, as abiraterone can cause elevations in liver enzymes. If anything concerns you while taking Zytiga, call Accord's pharmacy team at 1-855-222-6730.
Frequently Reported2
- Fatigue
- Joint and muscle pain
- Hot flashes
- Peripheral edema (swelling in legs and feet)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Low potassium (hypokalemia)
- Headache
- Upper respiratory infection and cough
Lab and Blood Pressure Monitoring2
- Liver function tests (ALT/AST): checked at baseline, every 2 weeks for the first 3 months, and monthly thereafter, with more frequent monitoring if levels rise
- Blood pressure, potassium, and fluid retention: checked at least once a month, since abiraterone can cause hypertension, hypokalemia, and fluid retention due to its effect on mineralocorticoid levels
Symptoms Requiring Immediate Attention2
- Adrenal insufficiency: unusual weakness, dizziness, or unexplained weight loss
- Liver toxicity: this can be severe and, in rare cases, fatal — report yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe fatigue right away; Zytiga may need to be adjusted, paused, or stopped based on your liver test results
- Cardiovascular symptoms: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or sudden shortness of breath
Prior Authorization for Zytiga (Abiraterone)
Most insurance plans require prior authorization before covering Zytiga. Prior authorization, commonly called PA, is a process where your oncologist submits clinical documentation confirming that Zytiga is medically necessary for your condition. For an oncology medication like Zytiga, this typically includes documentation of your diagnosis, stage of disease, and prior treatments.
When Accord receives your referral, we contact your oncologist's office to gather what the insurance plan requires, submit the prior authorization request, and follow up until a decision is reached. If your plan issues a denial, we work alongside your oncologist to prepare a formal appeal with the additional documentation needed to support your case. Information for prescribers →
Prior Authorization Process
Documentation
We request clinical records and diagnosis documentation from your oncologist
PA Submission
Prior authorization submitted to your insurance plan with full clinical documentation
Plan Decision
Approval issued, or denial received — timelines vary by payer
Appeal if Denied
We build a formal appeal with your oncologist to support your case
Note on appeals: A denial is not necessarily final. Many initially denied requests for Zytiga are approved on formal appeal. Our team manages this process alongside your oncologist at no additional burden to your care team.
Zytiga Cost & Financial Assistance
Zytiga cost at list price is substantial, but manufacturer assistance programs and widely available generic abiraterone can significantly reduce what you pay. Our team reviews your coverage and identifies every program you qualify for before your first fill.
Commercially Insured — Brand
Janssen CarePath Savings Program
$10 as low as, per month (up to $12,000/year)
Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $10 per month for brand Zytiga, with a maximum program benefit of $12,000 per calendar year. Not available for residents of California or Massachusetts, or for patients with government insurance.3
Commercially Insured — Generic
Generic Abiraterone Copay Programs
$5 as low as, per month with eligible programs
Several generic abiraterone manufacturers offer their own copay assistance programs, and terms vary by manufacturer — for example, Apotex's program offers as little as $5 per 30-day supply, while Amneal's offers as little as $10 per month. Our team can identify which program applies to your specific prescription.5
Uninsured
Johnson & Johnson Patient Assistance Foundation (JJPAF)
$0 for eligible uninsured patients
Brand Zytiga may be available at no cost for eligible uninsured patients through JJPAF. Applications are completed by the healthcare provider. Our team assists with the enrollment process.4
Medicare
Independent Foundation Assistance
Varies by program and eligibility
Manufacturer copay programs are not available for Medicare or Medicaid patients. The PAN Foundation and HealthWell Foundation may offer copay assistance for eligible patients. Our team can help identify which programs fit your situation.3
Have questions about your specific coverage? Call 1-855-222-6730 or contact us online to discuss your options. Our team identifies what you qualify for and assists with enrollment.
Getting Started
What to Expect with Accord
Referral Sent
Your oncologist sends a referral to Accord by fax or online referral form.
Insurance Verified
We confirm your coverage, benefits, and any cost-sharing requirements.
Prior Authorization
We submit clinical documentation and manage the PA process on your behalf.
Financial Assistance
We identify programs that may fit your situation and help connect you to the right resources.
Doorstep Delivery
Your medication ships directly to your door in states where Accord is licensed.
Have Questions About Zytiga?
Common Questions About Zytiga (Abiraterone)
Does Accord Specialty Pharmacy carry Zytiga (abiraterone)?
Yes. Accord is a licensed specialty pharmacy that dispenses both brand Zytiga and generic abiraterone. We manage prior authorization, financial assistance coordination, and doorstep delivery in states where Accord holds an active pharmacy license.
How do I transfer my Zytiga prescription to Accord?
Your oncologist can send a referral directly to Accord using our referral form, or by faxing to 386-456-3000. You can also call us at 1-855-222-6730 and our team will walk you through the process.
Is there a generic version of Zytiga?
Yes. Generic abiraterone is FDA-approved and widely available from multiple manufacturers. It contains the same active ingredient as brand Zytiga and must meet FDA bioequivalence standards.5 For many patients, generic abiraterone combined with a manufacturer copay program results in significantly lower out-of-pocket costs than brand Zytiga. Call us at 1-855-222-6730 to discuss which option makes sense for your coverage.
What foods should I avoid with Zytiga?
Zytiga must be taken on an empty stomach. Food, particularly fatty food, significantly increases how much abiraterone is absorbed into the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of side effects.2 The standard guidance is to avoid eating for at least two hours before your dose and at least one hour after. It is worth noting that a different branded formulation called Yonsa can be taken with food, but it is not interchangeable with Zytiga or standard generic abiraterone. Always follow the specific instructions for the formulation your oncologist prescribed.
Why do I need to take prednisone with Zytiga?
Abiraterone blocks testosterone production at multiple sites, including the adrenal glands. This can disrupt the adrenal glands' ability to produce other important hormones, contributing to side effects including fluid retention, high blood pressure, and low potassium. Prednisone is prescribed alongside Zytiga to help counterbalance these effects and support adrenal function.2 Taking both medications as prescribed is an important part of treatment. Do not stop taking prednisone without discussing it with your oncologist.
How long does prior authorization take for Zytiga?
Timelines vary by insurance plan. Our team begins working on your prior authorization as soon as we receive your referral and follows up proactively. We keep both you and your oncologist updated throughout the process.
What if my insurance denies Zytiga?
A denial is not necessarily final. Our team works with your oncologist to submit a formal appeal with the additional clinical documentation needed to support your case. Many initially denied requests are approved on appeal.
Is Zytiga chemotherapy?
No. Zytiga (abiraterone) is a hormone therapy, specifically an androgen biosynthesis inhibitor, not traditional chemotherapy. Traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy works by killing rapidly dividing cells throughout the body. Abiraterone works differently: it targets an enzyme involved in testosterone production, reducing the androgen levels that drive prostate cancer cell growth. While both are cancer treatments, the mechanism, side effect profile, and patient experience are meaningfully different.2 Your oncologist can explain how abiraterone fits into your overall treatment plan.
What is the difference between Zytiga and Xtandi?
Both Zytiga (abiraterone) and Xtandi (enzalutamide) are used to treat metastatic prostate cancer, but they work through different mechanisms. Zytiga reduces testosterone production by blocking the CYP17 enzyme. Xtandi works by blocking androgen receptors so that testosterone cannot signal cancer cells to grow.2 Both are used in mCRPC and mCSPC settings, and the choice between them depends on your specific clinical situation, prior treatments, and your oncologist's judgment. Accord dispenses both medications.
Does Zytiga interact with other medications?
Yes, this is worth reviewing carefully with your care team. Abiraterone can significantly increase blood levels of medications processed by a liver enzyme called CYP2D6, which includes some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and heart rhythm medications. Combining Zytiga with certain narrow-margin CYP2D6 medications is generally avoided, and a dose adjustment of the other medication may be needed if an alternative is not available.2 Give our pharmacy team and your oncologist a complete list of everything you take, including over-the-counter products and supplements, before starting Zytiga.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Zytiga?
If you miss a single dose, take your prescribed dose the following day as usual. Do not take two doses at one time to make up for a missed one.2 If you miss more than one dose in a row, tell your oncologist right away. If you have questions about a missed dose of Zytiga or prednisone, call our pharmacists at 1-855-222-6730.
For Patients
Ready to Get Started?
Our team coordinates everything — insurance verification, prior authorization, financial assistance, and delivery. Call us or ask your oncologist to send a referral, and we take it from there.
Call 1-855-222-6730For Oncologists & Prescribers
Refer a Patient to Accord
Download the Zytiga referral form, complete all sections, and fax to 386-456-3000. We confirm receipt within one business day and manage prior authorization on your behalf.
Download Referral FormReferences (5)
- National Cancer Institute. Prostate Cancer Treatment (PDQ) — Patient Version. National Institutes of Health. cancer.gov
- Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) Prescribing Information. Janssen Biotech, Inc. U.S. Food and Drug Administration / DailyMed. dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
- Janssen CarePath. Zytiga Savings Program. zytiga.janssencarepathsavings.com
- Johnson and Johnson Patient Assistance Foundation. Patient Assistance Program. jnjwithme.com
- Drugs.com. Generic Zytiga (abiraterone) Availability. drugs.com