MITOTANE – ORAL (MY-toe-tain)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Lysodren
WARNING: Mitotane causes your body to decrease its ability to quickly respond to stress (shock, severe injury, or infection). Mitotane may need to be stopped if you experience an injury, infection, or other stressful situation. Your doctor may prescribe another medication (corticosteroid) in a situation where mitotane must be stopped. You will be closely monitored while you are using this medication. Notify your doctor if you experience unusual weakness, fatigue, dizziness or fainting, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of an infection (e.g., persistent sore throat or fever).
USES: This medication is used to treat cancer of the adrenal glands.
OTHER USES: This drug may also be used for other adrenal problems (e.g., Cushing’s syndrome).
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Take this medication by mouth as directed, generally 3 or 4 times daily. Follow instructions carefully, as the dosage will be adjusted based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Generally, natural replacement corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone) are used every day with this drug to lessen the chance of side effects. It may take up to several months to receive the full benefit from this drug. Learn proper technique for safe handling and disposal of this medicine and its container. Consult your pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, headache, muscle aches, twitching or unusual weakness may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly:
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your entire medical history, including:
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially:
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Laboratory/medical tests may be performed to monitor response to this medicine.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not ‘double-up’ the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
