How does it work?

Estramustine is a compound which has two types of action. It is a combination of an anti-cancer medicine called an 'alkylating agent' and the hormone oestradiol which can also help in the treatment of prostate cancer. Cancers form when some cells within the body multiply uncontrollably and abnormally. These cells then spread and destroy nearby tissues. Estramustine phosphate acts by slowing this process down. It kills cancer cells by damaging the DNA (the genetic material within the cells) and stops them from dividing. It also works by lowering the amount of a certain hormone (testosterone) in the body. Unfortunately, estramustine phosphate also affects normal, healthy cells and therefore it produces serious side-effects during long-term treatment. The most important side effect is in the bone marrow where blood cells are made. Regular blood tests may therefore be needed to prevent the damage becoming permanent. Estramustine phosphate may be taken by mouth as capsules.

What is it used for?

Prostate cancer

Warning!

For use only under specialist medical supervision

Women who are pregnant should not handle this medicine.

Handle this medicine with care; avoid direct contact with bare skin

Use with caution in

Congestive heart failure

Coronary artery disease

Decreased blood cell production by the bone marrow

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function

Diabetes

Disorders that increase the risk of blood clots in the blood vessels (thromboembolic disorders)

Epilepsy

High blood pressure

High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcaemia)

Not to be used in

Children

Disease involving the heart and blood vessels

Peptic ulcer

Previous hypersensitivity to use of this medicine

Severe liver disease

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 is for use by men only. It should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

This medicine is for use by men only. It should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Label warnings

Take this medication an hour before food or on an empty stomach.

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