(Lysodren® is another name for this medication.) 

Use: Mitotane stops the growth of cells in the adrenal gland. In animals it is used to treat Cushing’s disease (where the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol).

Side Effects: The most common side effects are stomach upset, diarrhea and vomiting. Most animals will get more tired when the mitotane is starting to work.

Precautions: Some animals may develop liver problems from mitotane. If your animal stops eating, acts unusually tired, or has a yellowish color to its gums and the whites of its eyes, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Directions: Mitotane should be given orally with an oily or fatty food. Mitotane liquids and powders sprinkled on food with a little corn oil are the best ways to give mitotane to your pet. But if your pet has been controlled on intact tablets for a long time, you should not start crushing the tablets or switch to a liquid form without talking to your veterinarian. Switching from tablets to oral liquids or powders will dramatically increase the amount of mitotane that gets into your pet’s bloodstream.

Remember: Mitotane should be stored in a tight, light resistant, childproof container away from all children and other household pets. Gloves should always be worn when handling this drug and hands washed afterwards.

If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet.