Product Introduction:
Zelgor 250 mg is a hormonal therapy drug used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, particularly in cases where the disease has spread to other parts of the body.
It is used in:
-
Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)
-
Metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC)
Since prostate cancer cells rely on male hormones (androgens) to grow, Zelgor reduces androgen levels, helping slow the progression of the disease. Prednisone is always prescribed alongside Zelgor to prevent hormonal imbalances and manage potential side effects.
Uses of Zelgor 250 mg
Zelgor is primarily prescribed for the treatment of advanced-stage prostate cancer. The main uses include:
-
Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC) – For prostate cancer that continues to grow despite hormone therapy.
-
Metastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer (mHSPC) – Used in combination with prednisone to improve survival rates.
-
Slowing Cancer Progression – Reduces the spread of prostate cancer by lowering androgen levels.
-
Delaying the Need for Chemotherapy – Helps patients delay or avoid chemotherapy.
-
Post-Surgical Treatment – Used in certain cases to prevent cancer recurrence after surgery.
-
Prostate Cancer Symptom Management – Reduces pain and discomfort associated with tumor growth.
How Zelgor 250 mg Works (Mechanism of Action):
Zelgor (Abiraterone Acetate) is a CYP17 enzyme inhibitor that reduces the production of testosterone, a key hormone required for prostate cancer growth.
-
Blocks the CYP17 enzyme, which plays a crucial role in testosterone synthesis.
-
Prevents the adrenal glands, testes, and tumor cells from producing androgens.
-
Lowers overall androgen levels, helping slow down the spread of cancer.
Since testosterone reduction affects hormone balance, prednisone is always given alongside Zelgor to help prevent side effects like high blood pressure and fluid retention.
Dosage of Zelgor 250 mg
Recommended Dosage:
-
Standard Dose: 1000 mg per day (Four 250 mg tablets once daily)
-
Taken with prednisone: 5 mg twice daily
-
Doctor may adjust the dose based on patient condition and side effects.
Dosage Adjustments for Liver Issues:
-
Patients with liver impairment may require a lower dosage. Regular liver function tests are necessary.
Method of Administration (How to Take It)
-
Take Zelgor on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
-
Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water.
-
Do not chew, crush, or break the tablets before swallowing.
-
Take the medication at the same time every day for best results.
-
Prednisone is required alongside Zelgor to manage hormone imbalances and minimize side effects.
Side Effects of Zelgor 250 mg
Common Side Effects:
-
Fatigue & Weakness
-
High blood pressure (Hypertension)
-
Swelling in legs or feet (Fluid retention/Edema)
-
Low potassium levels (Hypokalemia)
-
Hot flashes
-
Increased liver enzymes
-
Joint pain (Arthralgia)
Severe Side Effects:
-
Heart problems (Arrhythmias, Heart failure, Chest pain)
-
Severe liver damage (Hepatotoxicity, Jaundice)
-
Adrenal insufficiency (Hormonal imbalance leading to weakness, dizziness)
-
Severe allergic reactions (Rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
⚠️ Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, severe dizziness, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), or difficulty breathing.
Precautions Before Taking Zelgor 250 mg
-
Not for use in women or children – Can cause severe harm if taken by pregnant women.
-
Regular blood tests are required to monitor potassium levels, liver function, and blood pressure.
-
Patients with heart conditions should use caution – Risk of heart complications.
-
Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice – Can increase drug side effects.
-
Use effective contraception – Can be harmful if a male patient’s partner is pregnant.
Drug Interactions (Medications That May Interact)
Zelgor 250 mg can interact with several medications, including:
Avoid using with:
-
Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Carbamazepine) – May reduce effectiveness.
-
CYP2D6 substrates (e.g., Metoprolol, Codeine) – Can alter drug levels.
-
Blood thinners (Warfarin, Heparin) – May increase bleeding risk.
-
Corticosteroids (other than prednisone) – Can cause hormonal imbalances.
-
Heart medications (Digoxin, Amiodarone) – Risk of cardiac complications.
Allergy Warnings
-
Do not use if allergic to Abiraterone Acetate or any ingredients in Zelgor.
-
Signs of allergy: Rash, swelling, severe itching, difficulty breathing.
-
Seek emergency medical help if an allergic reaction occurs.
Storage Instructions
-
Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F).
-
Keep in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
-
Keep out of reach of children.
-
Do not use expired medication.
Overdose Information
Symptoms of overdose:
-
Severe dizziness or fainting
-
Irregular heartbeat
-
Confusion or trouble breathing
What to do in case of overdose?
-
Seek emergency medical help immediately.
-
Contact a poison control center or visit the nearest hospital.
Missed Dose Instructions
-
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
-
If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose—do not take a double dose.
-
Never take extra tablets to make up for a missed dose.
Additional Notes:
-
Regular monitoring is required to check for liver function, blood pressure, and potassium levels.
-
Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting a doctor.
-
A healthy diet and exercise can support better treatment outcomes.
