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aminoglutethimide - oral, Cytadren

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GENERIC NAME: AMINOGLUTETHIMIDE - ORAL (a-MEE-neo-gloo-TETH-i-mide)

BRAND NAME(S): Cytadren

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Aminoglutethimide is used to treat Cushing's syndrome, a disease that occurs when the body produces too much cortisol and other hormones. Cortisol is a natural substance that is needed by the body to deal with stress and keep the body working well. Too much of these hormones causes many problems such as blood pressure changes, weight changes, muscle/bone weakness, thinning skin, and diabetes. This medication is used to stop the adrenal gland from making too much cortisol and other hormones. It is often used for a short time until other treatments can be done.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 4 times a day (every 6 hours) or as directed by your doctor.This medication is usually started in the hospital. Your doctor may change your dose frequently at first to find the best dose for you. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy (e.g., cortisol blood levels).Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: cold intolerance, constipation, fainting, slow/fast heartbeat, tiredness, weakness, weight gain.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: easy bleeding/bruising, unwanted facial/body hair.This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills, or persistent sore throat.Aminoglutethimide can commonly cause a rash that usually goes away. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction. Therefore, seek immediate medical attention if you develop a rash.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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