Orimeten (discontinued in the UK - February 2005)

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > O



How does it work?

Aminoglutethimide prevents the production of steroid hormones in the adrenal cortex. This occurs at an early stage in the process. Aminoglutethimide may also suppress the production of oestrogens elsewhere in the body. Some types of cancer, especially breast cancer, will grow in the presence of oestrogens. Reduction of oestrogen levels will limit the growth of this type of cancer. Aminoglutethimide can be used for this purpose. As aminoglutethimide also inhibits production of cortisone, it can also be used in the treatment of Cushing's syndrome.

What is it used for?

- Breast cancer
- Cushing's syndrome caused by a tumor

Warning!

- People taking this medicine should have regular blood tests.
- It is recommended that blood tests are performed every six months to check the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood (thyroid function tests).
- Blood pressure should be monitored regularly during treatment with this medicine.

Use with caution in

- Lack of production of natural steroid hormones from the adrenal gland (adrenocortical insufficiency)

Not to be used in

- Breastfeeding
- Known sensitivity or allergy to any ingredient
- Life long inherited blood diseases which can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental health problems (porphyrias)
- Pregnancy

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- This medicine should not be used during pregnancy as it may be harmful to the unborn baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- Significant amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers as it may be harmful to the nursing infant. Seek medical advice from your doctor.