What are the side effects of mitotane (Lysodren)?
Mitotane (Lysodren): decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting – up to 80% of patients (usually receiving high doses); depression, sleepiness, dizziness – this occurs in up to 40% of patients (usually receiving high doses). 4. I had pituitary surgery for Cushing’s, why do I have to take steroid (cortisol) replacement (hydrocortisone (Cortef), prednisone or dexamethasone)? This is the best outcome after pituitary surgery. It means that the tumor has been removed successfully and that the remaining normal ACTH producing cells in the pituitary gland are still suppressed (relatively “asleep”). It may take several months for the normal ACTH producing cells to regain function to stimulate the adrenal glands to produce a normal amount of cortisol (hormone necessary for life). In the mean time, steroid replacement is necessary to protect against adrenal insufficiency. At a later date, the need for continued steroid replacement is determined by blood tests off of the steroid medication. If a person
