Aminoglutethimide (By mouth)

Introduction:

Aminoglutethimide (a-mee-noe-gloo-TETH-i-mide)

Treats the symptoms of Cushing's syndrome (adrenal gland disorder).

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aminoglutethimide or glutethimide. You should not use this medicine if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.

If a dose is missed:

  • This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using dexamethasone (Decadron®), or blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin®).
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are breast feeding. Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine.
  • Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
  • This medicine may make you drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Cough, fever.
  • Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
  • Extreme weakness or drowsiness.
  • Fast heartbeat.
  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Pain in your upper stomach.
  • Severe vomiting.
  • Yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Headache, muscle pain.
  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite.
  • Swelling in your throat or neck.
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