Mitotane is a medicine that is mainly used to treat cancer of the adrenal glands, called adrenocortical carcinoma. It comes in the form of tablets that are taken by mouth. It is a strong drug that affects how the adrenal glands work and is usually given only in special treatment centers.

Mechanism of Action

Mitotane works by destroying the cells of the adrenal glands that normally make hormones such as cortisol and other steroids. This lowers the levels of these hormones in the body. It also changes how the liver breaks down these hormones, which makes them less active.

Uses

Mitotane is used for:

• Treatment of adrenal gland cancer, especially when surgery cannot remove it completely

• Control of very high cortisol levels in conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome when other treatments do not work

  Adverse Effects

  Mitotane can cause several side effects. Common ones are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, tiredness, dizziness and skin rash.
  It can also affect the brain and nerves, causing confusion, difficulty in speaking, or problems with coordination.
  Because it damages the adrenal glands, it can lead to very low cortisol levels, so many patients need to take replacement steroid tablets.
  Other serious effects include liver problems and risk of an adrenal crisis if the body is under stress and does not get enough cortisol support.