MITODX (Mitotane)

Mitotane is a steroidogenesis inhibitor and cytostatic antineoplastic medication which is used in the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma and Cushing's syndrome. It is a derivative of the early insecticide DDT and an isomer of p,p'-DDD (4,4'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane) and is also known as 2,4'-(dichlorodiphenyl)-2,2-dichloroethane (o,p'-DDD).

Medical uses

Mitotane has been produced by Bristol Myers Squibb but it is marketed as an orphan drug for adrenocortical carcinoma due to the small number of patients in need of it. Its main use is in those patients who have persistent disease despite surgical resection, those who are not surgical candidates, or those who have metastatic disease. In a 2007 retrospective study of 177 patients from 1985 to 2005 showed a significant increase in the recurrence-free interval after radical surgery followed by mitotane when compared to surgery alone. The drug is also sometimes used in the treatment of Cushing's syndrome.

Why is this medication prescribed?

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.

How should this medicine 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.

Other uses for this medicine

Mitotane is also sometimes used to treat Cushing's Syndrome (condition where the body produces too much of the hormone cortisol). Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this drug for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What side effects can this medication 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.