What are the common side effects of Mitotane? Patients need to be vigilant when taking medication

Mitotane is an oral anti-tumor drug used to treat adrenocortical cancer. Its mechanism of action is mainly by destroying adrenocortical cells and inhibiting cortisol synthesis, thereby achieving the effect of controlling tumor growth and hormone secretion. Although mitotane can effectively delay the progression of the disease clinically, its side effects are relatively common and may affect patients' quality of life, so patients need to be highly vigilant when taking the drug.

The most common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and indigestion. This type of reaction usually occurs at the beginning of treatment, and some patients will alleviate it as their tolerance improves. In order to reduce these adverse reactions, patients can take medicine after meals or use anti-vomiting drugs under the guidance of a doctor, while maintaining a light and regular diet.

In addition, mitotane can cause adverse reactions to the central nervous system, such as headache, drowsiness, decreased concentration, ataxia, dizziness, etc. In severe cases, neuropsychiatric symptoms may occur. Long-term use may also cause abnormal liver function, suppression of adrenal function and electrolyte imbalance. Therefore, patients need to regularly monitor blood routine, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte levels during medication, pay attention to changes in mental status, and report abnormalities to the doctor in a timely manner.

Mitotane may also cause skin and metabolic side effects, such as skin allergies, weight loss, and fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies. Because mitotane is a fat-soluble drug and accumulates in the body for a long time, side effects may last for several weeks after stopping the drug. Patients should strictly follow the doctor's instructions to adjust the dosage and avoid stopping or increasing the dosage on their own to reduce risks. In short, mitotane has many side effects and affects multiple systems. Close monitoring, regular review and individualized dose adjustment during medication are the keys to ensuring safety and efficacy.

Keyword tag:

Mitotan, adrenocortical carcinoma, ACC, usage and dosage, precautions, blood concentration monitoring, adrenal function suppression, hormone replacement, gastrointestinal reactions, central nervous system effects, drug interactions, long-term accumulation

Reference:https://reference.medscape.com/drug/lysodren-mitotane-342258