Mitotane

Mitotane is an anti-neoplastic agent used to treat adrenal cortex cancer by suppressing adrenal function and destroying adrenal cells.

Structure of Mitotane

• Mitotane is an adrenolytic agent structurally related to the insecticide DDT, featuring a dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) core with modifications.
• Chemical Formula: C₁₈H₁₂Cl₄O

Mode of Action

• Adrenolytic Effects: Specifically targets and destroys adrenal cortical cells.
• Steroidogenesis Inhibition: Reduces cortisol production by inhibiting enzymes involved in steroid synthesis.
• Apoptosis Induction: Promotes programmed cell death in adrenal cortical carcinoma cells.

Uses

• Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma: As an adjuvant therapy post-surgery.
• Cushing’s Syndrome: Particularly ectopic or adrenal in origin.
• Management of Adrenal Insufficiency: By reducing excess hormone production.
• Breast Cancer: In certain cases where hormone modulation is beneficial.

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