Drug Groups

illicit; approved

Description

Drostanolone (also known as dromostanolone) is a potent synthetic androgenic anabolic steroid similar to testosterone. Drostanolone is indicated in postmenopausal women with recurrent breast cancer, in a combined hormone therapy.

Indication

For use in females, for palliation of androgenresponsive recurrent mammary cancer in women who are more than one year but less than five years postmenopausal.

Pharmacology

Dromostanolone is a synthetic androgen, or male hormone, similar to testosterone. Dromostanolone works by attaching itself to androgen receptors; this causes it to interact with the parts of the cell involved in the making of proteins. It may cause an increase in the synthesis of some proteins or a decrease in the synthesis of others. These proteins have a variety of effects, including blocking the growth of some types of breast cancer cells, stimulating cells that cause male sexual characteristics, and stimulating the production of red blood cells.

Toxicity

Side effects include virilization (masculine traits in women), acne, fluid retention, and hypercalcemia.

Affected Organisms

Absorption

Well absorbed following parenteral administration.

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