What is "mitotane"

n. A particular oral drug used to treat cancer.

Mitotane, also known as o,p'-DDD (Lysodren), is an antineoplastic medication used in the treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma. It is an isomer of DDD and is a derivative of DDT. 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.

It has been produced by Bristol Myers Squibb SpA but it is marketed as an orphan drug due to the small number of patients in need of it. A 2007 study of 177 patients shows a significant increase in the recurrence-free interval after radical surgery followed by mitotane when compared to surgery alone.

Mitotane alters steroid peripheral metabolism, directly suppresses the adrenal cortex and alters cortisone metabolism leading to hypocortisolism. Side effects as reported by Schteinberg et al. include anorexia and nausea (88%), diarrhea (38%), vomiting (23%), decreased memory and ability to concentrate (50%), rash (23%), gynecomastia (50%), arthralgia (19%), and leukopenia (7%).

Its trade name is Lysodren.