Estramustine
About
Estramustine is an antineoplastic medicine used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It is used to treat metastatic or progressive prostate cancer (a condition where cancer does not get cured) in men. Prostate cancer is a condition that occurs when the number of prostate gland cells increases abnormally. Symptoms may include difficulty in urinating, pain, numbness, etc.
Estramustine contains Estramustine, which belongs to the class of antimicrotubule agents. It works by blocking the replication of DNA (genetic material) in the cancer cells. Hence, this stops the further growth and multiplication of the cancer cells.
Estramustine may cause certain side effects such as nausea, dizziness, heartburn, headache, diarrhoea, muscle weakness, joint pain, hot flushes, nausea, vomiting, thirst, flatulence, edema, and GI bleeding. These side effects usually disappear without any medical attention. However, if these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor. Take this medicine as advised by your doctor. It should be taken on an empty stomach at least 2 hours before or post meals. Your doctor will decide the dose of the medicine based on the severity of your disease.
Estramustine should be avoided if you are allergic to estradiol, nitrogen mustard or any component present in this medicine. Inform your doctor about medications you use to avoid interactions. Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing or a history of liver/kidney disease, hypocalcemia, thrombophlebitis, fluid retention, coronary artery disease, diabetes, gynecomastia, or impotence before taking Estramustine. Estramustine is not recommended for use in women and children as this medicine is recommended for men. Estramustine is known to cause thrombosis, fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction, glucose intolerance and elevated blood pressure in some patients. Hence, close monitoring should be done during the treatment.
Uses of Estramustine
Medicinal Benefits
Estramustine contains Estramustine, which belongs to the class of antimicrotubule agents. It works by blocking the replication of DNA (genetic material) in the cancer cells. Hence, this stops the further growth and multiplication of the cancer cells.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Estramustine
- Dizziness
- Heartburn
- Headache
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of Appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- GI bleeding
- Thirst
- Edema
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Estramustine should be avoided if you are allergic to it or either estradiol or nitrogen mustard. Keep a note of all your ongoing medications to avoid interactions. Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing or a history of liver/kidney disease, hypocalcemia, thrombophlebitis, fluid retention, coronary artery disease, diabetes, Gynecomastia, or impotence before taking Estramustine. Estramustine is not recommended for use in women and children as the safety and efficacy of this medicine are not established. Estramustine is known to cause thrombosis, fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction, glucose intolerance and elevated blood pressure in some patients. Hence, close monitoring should be done during the entire treatment course. Do not take Estramustine with milk or any other dairy products.
Drug Interactions
Drug-drug interactions: Estramustine may interact with antifungal medicine (ketoconazole, itraconazole), antacids (magnesium hydroxide, aluminium hydroxide), vitamins, herbal supplements and many other medicines.
Drug-food interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-disease interactions: Estramustine should be used with caution in patients with severe liver and kidney failure, adrenal or pituitary gland problems, heart failure, an irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and hypoglycemia.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorInteraction of Estramustine with alcohol is unknown. It is advisable to consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Pregnancy
not applicableNot intended for women. Estramustine has the potential to harm a fetus. If there is a chance that your partner will become pregnant while you are on estramustine, you should utilize effective birth control.
Breast Feeding
not applicableNot intended for women.
Driving
unsafeEstramustine may decrease alertness or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. So, do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking Estramustine until your vision improves.
Liver
cautionEstramustine should be used with caution, especially if you have a history of liver diseases/conditions. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your condition.
Kidney
cautionEstramustine should be used with caution, especially if you have a history of kidney diseases/conditions. This medicine causes fluid retention and edema which can be worsened by kidney impairment. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your condition.
Children
not applicableIntended for use in adult men.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Try to take vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, spinach and kale. This food slows the growth of prostate cancer and even reduces the risk of prostate cancer.
- It is advised to consume fewer dairy products as these foods may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
- Physical activity helps in strengthening muscles, reduces fatigue, helps in weight loss and gives strength.
- Maintain a healthy weight by doing regular simple exercises and yoga.
- Getting adequate sleep as resting helps improve your health and mental ability and improves attention.
- Avoid including red meat high amounts of meat in your diet. When meat is cooked, it may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Special Advise
- Estramustine is not recommended for use in patients suffering from severe kidney disease.
- Regular checkups on your calcium, potassium, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels are advised.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Prostate cancer: The prostate gland is a small walnut-sized gland present under the bladder which is responsible for the production of seminal fluid. Prostate cancer is a carcinogenic condition that occurs when the prostate gland cells increase out of control. The main cause of this condition is unknown. However, a few underlying reasons that increase the risk for this condition include age, family history, ethnic group, genetic factors, obesity, etc.
FAQs
Estramustine contains Estramustine, which belongs to the class of antimicrotubule agents. It works by blocking the replication of DNA (genetic material) in the cancer cells. Hence, this stops the further growth and multiplication of the cancer cells.
No, do not stop taking Estramustine without consulting your doctor. It is recommended to take this medicine for the entire prescribed duration, even when symptoms improve or resolve.
