Prostate cancer diagnosed in March 2020 (Stage 4 Gleason 9). Have recently completed 6 cycles of chemo, with ADT injections every 3 months. My PSA, which was originally 76, dropped to 1.6 in December 2020.
I don't have medical insurance so have been undergoing treatment at the public hospital.
Apr ’21 started Abiraterone (Zytiga) 500mg taken with low fat breakfast of approx. 300 cals and also taking Prednisone.
May ’21 PSA further drops from 5.6 - 0.5. Then in June ’21 again drops to 0.2
Jul ’21 lower my dosage of Abiraterone to 250mg taken with low fat breakfast of approx. 300 cals and also continue with Prednisone.
PSA remain unchanged at 0.2 from Jul – Oct ‘21
In Nov ’21 had to go on overseas trip so unable to continue with regular local hospital blood tests and consultations. The trip was originally planned to be for 2 months but due to Covid and airline flight problems ended up taking close to 5 months. Unfortunately, during that period I missed a regular 3 monthly ADT injection (unable to see a doctor or get to any hospital) . Throughout the overseas trip, I continued my medication routine of Abiraterone 250mg taken with low fat breakfast
Once back from the overseas trip and resuming treatment at the local public hospital, my PSA readings have been rising as follows
Apr ’22 2.01
Jun ’22 2.90
Jul ’22 4.40
Aug ’22 6.60
In September, I have bone can and CT scan scheduled to help identify what changes have occurred since last scans.
In hindsight, I wonder if I lowered my dosage of Abiraterone (500mg down to 250mg) too soon or if I should just have continued on the 500mg dosage.
I had found it very difficult to handle the medication dosage of 1000mg of Abiraterone on an empty stomach.
Any advice or comments on my situation would be much appreciated.