What are the functions and effects of Mitotane?

Mitotane(Mitotane) is a special anti-tumor drug mainly used to treat adrenocortical cancer (ACC), especially for patients with functional or non-functional adrenocortical cancer that cannot be surgically removed. Adrenocortical carcinoma(Adrenal gland cancer) is a rare but highly malignant tumor that produces excess hormones in some patients, causing Cushing's syndrome or other endocrine disorders. Mitotane reduces symptoms and delays tumor progression by selectively destroying adrenocortical tumor cells and inhibiting their hormone secretion.

The drug has a unique cytotoxic effect, can directly inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, and at the same time regulates the hormone production of some functional tumors. Compared with traditional chemotherapy drugs, mitotane is more professional in targeting adrenal tumors, but it may still be associated with certain toxic side effects and needs to be used under the supervision of a professional medical team. Drugs are usually administered orally, and through long-term and regular administration, the blood concentration of the drug is stabilized and the therapeutic effect is achieved.

Mitotane can not only be used for patients who cannot be surgically removed, but can also be used as adjuvant therapy for patients with a high risk of postoperative recurrence to reduce the probability of recurrence. In clinical practice, doctors will adjust the dosage according to the patient's weight, tumor type, and hormone levels, and conduct regular blood drug concentration monitoring to ensure a balance between efficacy and safety. Long-term follow-up and monitoring are critical to the success of a mitotane regimen, as concentrations that are too low may compromise efficacy, while concentrations that are too high may increase the risk of side effects.

In addition, mitotane also has certain advantages in controlling tumor-related symptoms. For example, in patients with functional adrenocortical cancer, mitotane can significantly improve symptoms such as hypertension, diabetes, and weight changes caused by high cortisol levels, thereby improving the patient's quality of life. Modern clinical research and international guidelines have recognized the core position of mitotane in the treatment of ACC, especially when surgery is not feasible or postoperative adjuvant treatment shows significant value.

Reference materials:https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00648