Product Introduction:
Birafer 250mg is a prescription medication used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, specifically metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC). It works by reducing testosterone production, which is necessary for the growth of prostate cancer cells. This medication is typically administered along with prednisone or prednisolone to minimize side effects and enhance efficacy.
Uses:
Birafer 250mg is prescribed for:
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Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC): Advanced prostate cancer that continues to progress despite low testosterone levels.
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Metastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer (mHSPC): Prostate cancer that has spread but still responds to hormone therapy.
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Reducing Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Levels: Helps slow cancer progression.
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Delaying Tumor Progression: Slows tumor growth and prolongs survival.
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Relieving Symptoms of Advanced Prostate Cancer: Helps manage pain, urinary issues, and other symptoms.
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Combination with Prednisone: Helps counteract side effects such as fluid retention and hypertension.
How It Works (Mechanism of Action):
Birafer 250mg contains Abiraterone Acetate, which is a CYP17 enzyme inhibitor.
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The CYP17 enzyme plays a crucial role in the production of androgens (testosterone and other male hormones).
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Prostate cancer cells rely on androgens for growth.
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Abiraterone inhibits CYP17, reducing androgen production in:
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Testes
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Adrenal glands
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Tumor cells
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This leads to slower tumor growth and prolonged survival in prostate cancer patients.
Dosage:
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Recommended dose: 1,000 mg per day (4 tablets of 250 mg each)
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Taken once daily on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals).
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Must be taken with prednisone (5 mg twice daily) to minimize side effects.
Always follow your doctor’s prescription carefully.
Method of Administration:
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Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water.
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Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.
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Take on an empty stomach (food increases absorption and can lead to severe side effects).
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Avoid grapefruit juice, as it may interfere with drug metabolism.
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Take at the same time every day for optimal results.
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects:
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High blood pressure (Hypertension)
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Low potassium levels (Hypokalemia) – May cause muscle weakness or cramps.
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Swelling in the legs & feet (Edema, Fluid retention)
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Liver enzyme elevation (Hepatotoxicity)
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Increased cholesterol & triglycerides
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Joint or muscle pain
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Fatigue, dizziness, headache
Severe Side Effects:
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Heart problems (Irregular heartbeat, chest pain, heart failure)
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Liver damage (Hepatitis, liver failure) – Symptoms include yellowing of the skin/eyes and dark urine.
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Severe low potassium levels – Can lead to irregular heartbeat and muscle paralysis.
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Adrenal insufficiency – The body may stop producing enough cortisol.
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Severe allergic reactions – Rash, swelling of the face/tongue, difficulty breathing.
Precautions:
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Not for use in women or children.
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Avoid alcohol, as it can worsen liver damage.
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Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels regularly.
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Patients with diabetes should be cautious, as this drug may increase blood sugar levels.
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People with liver disease or heart problems require close monitoring.
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Elderly patients may be more prone to side effects.
Drug Interactions:
Avoid taking Birafer 250mg with:
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Rifampin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine – May reduce effectiveness.
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Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Clarithromycin – Can increase drug toxicity.
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Warfarin & Blood Thinners – Increases bleeding risk.
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Diuretics (Furosemide, Spironolactone) – May worsen potassium imbalances.
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HIV medications (Ritonavir, Efavirenz) – May alter drug levels in the body.
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Heart medications (Digoxin, Diltiazem, Verapamil) – Requires close monitoring.
Allergies:
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Do not take Birafer 250mg if you are allergic to Abiraterone Acetate or any of its ingredients.
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Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling of the face, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
Storage Instructions:
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Store at room temperature (20-25°C / 68-77°F)
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Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight.
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Store in original container with the lid tightly closed.
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Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information:
Symptoms of Overdose:
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Severe high blood pressure
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Extreme weakness or confusion
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Signs of liver damage (yellow skin, dark urine)
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Dangerously low potassium levels (irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness)
What to Do in Case of Overdose?
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Seek immediate medical attention.
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Contact a poison control center or go to the nearest hospital.
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Bring the medicine bottle for reference.
Missed Dose Instructions:
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next dose.
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Do not take two doses at the same time to compensate for a missed dose.
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Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Additional Notes:
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Men taking Birafer should use contraception if their partner is pregnant or may become pregnant.
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Do not donate blood while on this medication, as it may harm recipients.
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Regular liver function tests (LFTs) are necessary to check for toxicity.
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This medicine does not cure prostate cancer, but it helps control the disease and improve survival rates.
