Mitotane
Conditions Treated
Mitotane is used to treat cancer of the adrenal gland that can not be treated with surgery. Mitotane is in a class of medications called antineoplastic agents. It works by slowing growth or reducing the size of the tumor.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Mitotane may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- loss of appetite
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- depression
- lack of energy
- unusual drowsiness
- feeling that the room is spinning
- changes in vision
- rash or changes in skin color
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- abdominal or side pain
- confusion
- fast heartbeat
- high fever or shaking chills
- excessive sweating
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Mitotane comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken three to four times a day. Take mitotane at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take mitotane exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. You will probably be hospitalized when you begin your treatment with mitotane. Your doctor will start you on a low dose of mitotane and gradually increase your dose. Continue to take mitotane even if you feel well. Do not stop taking mitotane without talking to your doctor.
What Dietary Instructions Should I Follow
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before taking mitotane, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to mitotane, or any other medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants ('mood elevators'); medications for anxiety, mental illness, or seizures; sedatives, sleeping pills, or tranquilizers; and spironolactone (Aldactone). Your doctor may need to change the dose of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects. Many other medications may also interact with mitotane, so be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, even those that do not appear on this list. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease. if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking mitotane. you should know that mitotane may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Lysodren®
Overdose
What To Do In The Case of Emergency
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Forgotten Doses
What Should I Do If I Forget A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to mitotane. Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking mitotane. Wear or carry medical identification stating that you take mitotane to be sure you get proper treatment in an emergency. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.