Indications
Lysodren is a prescription medication used to treat adrenal cortical carcinoma, which is cancer of the outer layer of the adrenal gland. It contains the active ingredient mitotane, which is an adrenal cytotoxic agent that works by slowing the growth of or killing adrenal gland cells and decreasing the amount of hormones made by the adrenal gland.
Lysodren is typically used when the cancer is inoperable, functional, or nonfunctional. It should be administered under the supervision of a qualified physician experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Use and Dosage
Lysodren is available in tablet form and should be taken orally as directed by your physician, typically 3 or 4 times per day. Take Lysodren regularly to get the most benefit from it, and to take it at the same time each day to help you remember.
The dosage will depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more frequently or for a longer period than prescribed, as it will not improve your condition any faster and may increase your risk of serious side effects.
Because Lysodren can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and has the potential to harm an unborn baby, pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should avoid handling this medication or breathing in the dust from the tablets.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Lysodren (Mitotane):
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Skin rash
- Spinning sensation (vertigo)
- Tiredness
- Unusual weakness
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Lysodren (Mitotane):
- Breast tenderness or enlargement (males)
- Change in skin color or thickness
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Flushing
- Mental/mood changes (e.g., Depression irritability difficulty concentrating confusion)
- Numbness or tingling of hands or feet
- Pink urine
- Severe dizziness
- Shakiness (tremors)
- Speech problems
- Unsteadiness
- Unusual or rapid weight loss
- Unwanted facial or body hair (females)
- Vision problems
Forms and Strength
Lysodren (Mitotane) is available in the following forms and strength:
Lysodren: Tablet
- 500mg
Cautions
- Adrenal crisis can occur if not enough hormone (cortisol) is produced by the adrenal glands.
- Lysodren can cause liver damage, so it should be used with caution in patients with liver disease.
- Mitotane can interact with other medications, inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before starting treatment.
- Lysodren may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If these symptoms persist or worsen, you should contact your doctor.
- Lysodren should be used with caution in patients with a history of seizures or epilepsy.
- Mitotane can lower the levels of thyroid hormone in the body, monitor thyroid function while on the medication.
- Lysodren can cause damage to the lining of the stomach and intestines, so it should be used with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding.
- Mitotane should not be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may harm the developing fetus or newborn. Remember that this is not a complete list of possible cautions, and you should always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Lysodren be used with other cancer treatments?
Lysodren can be used in combination with other treatments for adrenal cortical carcinoma, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Lysodren?
If you miss a dose of Lysodren, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
How long does it take for Lysodren to work?
Lysodren may take several weeks or months to begin working, as it slowly reduces the production of cortisol.
Can Lysodren be used in breastfeeding?
Lysodren should not be used in breastfeeding women, as it may be excreted in breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a608050.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/lysodren.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4494/lysodren-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/016885s023lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/lysodren-drug.htm
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=f0cd76e9-460c-450e-b094-172e636f340a
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