aminoglutethimide Health Article

Generic name(s):

aminoglutethimide

Brand name(s):

Cytadren

What is the most important information I should know about aminoglutethimide?

Aminoglutethimide should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced with its use and hazards. Treatment should usually begin in a hospital.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Aminoglutethimide may cause drowsiness and dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase the effects of aminoglutethimide.

Aminoglutethimide may stop your body from responding to conditions of stress, such as surgery, injury, or sudden illness. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with aminoglutethimide.

What is aminoglutethimide?

Aminoglutethimide is an anti-hormone medication. Aminoglutethimide interferes with the body's production of certain hormones.

Aminoglutethimide is used in the treatment of conditions which cause the body to make too much of certain hormones (Cushing's syndrome).

Aminoglutethimide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking aminoglutethimide?

Do not use aminoglutethimide without first talking to your doctor if you have recently had:

• a serious injury;

• surgery; or

• a serious illness.

You may not be able to use aminoglutethimide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Aminoglutethimide is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use aminoglutethimide without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Discuss with your doctor the appropriate use of birth control during treatment. It is not known whether aminoglutethimide passes into breast milk. Do not take aminoglutethimide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.

How should I use aminoglutethimide?

Aminoglutethimide should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced with its use and hazards. Treatment should usually begin in a hospital.

Take each oral dose with a full glass of water.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with aminoglutethimide depending upon your condition. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.

Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with aminoglutethimide to monitor progress and side effects.

Store aminoglutethimide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next dose as directed. Do not take a double dose. A double dose of this medication could be dangerous.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a aminoglutethimide overdose may include decreased breathing, dizziness, fainting, sleepiness, poor coordination, weakness, coma, nausea, and vomiting.

What should I avoid while using aminoglutethimide?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Aminoglutethimide may cause drowsiness and dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase the effects of aminoglutethimide.