How to take mitotane and what are the precautions for taking it?

Mitotane is an adrenocortical inhibitor used to treat adrenocortical tumors and Cushing's syndrome. This drug has toxic effects on certain parts of the adrenocortical cells, causing these cells to die. This also reduces the amount of cortisol your body produces and changes how the steroid is metabolized (processed) in your body. You may need oral steroids (such as hydrocortisone) to make up for this loss.

Mitotane is available as an oral tablet. It is usually taken three to four times daily with a high-fat meal or snack. Ask your doctor for examples of foods you can eat while taking mitotane. Take mitotane at about the same time each day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any parts you don't understand. Take mitotane exactly as directed. Do not take more, less, or more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Swallow the tablets whole; do not open, chew, or crush them. Do not take broken or crushed tablets. If any tablets are broken or crushed, do not touch them with your bare hands. Wear rubber or latex gloves when handling broken or crushed tablets to prevent skin contact with the medication. If a broken or crushed tablet comes into contact with your skin, wash the area immediately with soap and water. If you are a caregiver, you should wear rubber or latex gloves when handling mitotane tablets.

If you vomit after taking mitotane, do not take another dose. Continue with your regular dosing regimen.

Your doctor will start you on a low dose of mitotane and gradually increase your dose based on how well the drug works for you and the side effects you experience.

If you develop certain side effects, your doctor may need to reduce your dose or stop your treatment temporarily or permanently. It is important for you to tell your doctor how you feel during your treatment with mitotane.

Continue taking mitotane even if you feel well. Do not stop taking mitotane without consulting your doctor.

When your body's adrenal glands don't produce enough of the hormone (cortisol), mitotane may cause a serious, life-threatening condition. Tell your doctor if you have or are developing a serious infection, illness, or injury or if you are having surgery, including dental surgery. Your doctor may tell you not to take mitotane. Call your doctor right away if you develop any of the following symptoms: Extreme fatigue; weakness; dizziness; lightheadedness; decreased consciousness; feeling irritable or depressed; confusion; pain in the lower back or legs; nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; stomach pain; weight loss; changes in skin color; hair loss; or a craving for salt.

When using mitotane, patients must follow the doctor's professional medication instructions and do not change the dose of mitotane or discontinue the medication without authorization. If you have any questions or discomfort, you should contact your doctor promptly.