Two years ago Abiraterone, a prostate cancer wonder pill which shrank tumors by 80%, hit the headlines. Meanwhile tests prove its effectiveness and the drug will enter the market next year.

According to tests funded by the Institute of Cancer Research UK the drug which is administered once a day has the capacity to shrink or stabilize tumors for almost six months in late-stage patients and also ease their pain. Abiraterone works by blocking testosterone which feeds the cancer’s growth and the side effects if any are mild and easily treated.

For those with an aggressive form of prostate cancer the death occurs usually within 18 months from diagnosis. Although the effect doesn’t last indefinitely Abiraterone can shrink aggressive tumors.

The drug is hailed as the biggest breakthrough in the field for the past 60 years. “These findings are particularly important as they offer new hope to men who can quickly run out of treatment options once their tumour stops responding.” said Dr. Helen Rippon of the Prostate Cancer Charity.