How does it work?

Metyrapone works by stopping the natural production of a steroid hormone called cortisol. Cortisol has many important functions on every organ system, but its overproduction leads to a condition called Cushing's syndrome. This is characterized by symptoms such as moon face, accumulation of fat in particular areas of the body and osteoporosis. By decreasing the production of cortisol, metyrapone relieves the symptoms of Cushing's syndrome. It is also used by hospital specialists to aid in the diagnosis of the underlying cause of Cushing's syndrome. Metyrapone also stops the natural production of a hormone called aldosterone. This hormone is normally involved in regulating fluid balance within the body. Overproduction in conditions such as heart failure, liver cirrhosis and kidney disease results in excess fluid retention. By decreasing the production of aldosterone, metyrapone can relieve fluid retention in these conditions. As metyrapone also decreases natural cortisol production, it must be given with a synthetic cortisol replacement when used to treat oedema, to prevent unwanted cortisol depletion in people whose levels are normal.

What is it used for?

Cushing's syndrome

Diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome

Fluid retention (oedema) resistant to treatment in people with liver or kidney disease or heart failure

Warning!

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.

Take with milk or after a meal to minimise nausea and vomiting

Use with caution in

Children

Reduced activity of the pituitary gland (hypopituitarism)

Reduced function of the adrenal glands

Not to be used in

Insufficient production of natural steroid hormones by the adrenal glands (adrenal insufficiency)

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 in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Mothers who need to take this medicine should not breastfeed. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Take this medication with or after food.

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