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Action/Kinetics:
Synthetic steroid related to testosterone. May act to reduce synthesis of estrone from adrenal androstenedione by inhibiting steroid aromatase activity. Well absorbed from the GI tract. Metabolized in the liver and unchanged drug and metabolites are excreted through the urine. Does not cause virilization.
Uses:
Palliative treatment of advanced disseminated mammary cancer in postmenopausal women or in premenopausal ovariectomized clients. Is effective in only 15% of clients.
Contraindications:
Breast cancer in men. Lactation. Premenopausal women with intact ovaries.
Special Concerns:
Safety and efficacy have not been determined in children.
Additional Side Effects:
GI: N&V;, glossitis, anorexia.
CNS: Numbness or tingling of fingers, toes, face.
Miscellaneous: Inflammation and irritation at injection site; increased BP. Hypercalcemia. Maculopapular erythema, alopecia, aches and edema of the extremities, nail growth disturbances. See also
Testosterone.
Laboratory Test Alterations:
Plasma calcium, urinary excretion of creatine (24 hr) and 17-ketosteroids.
Estradiol levels using radioimmunoassays.
Drug Interactions:
Testolactone may
effect of oral anticoagulants.
How Supplied:
Tablet: 50 mg
Dosage
?Tablets
250 mg q.i.d. Continue therapy for 3 months unless there is active progression of the disease.
