Sign inBefore taking diethylstilbestrol
Before taking diethylstilbestrol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you have heart or circulation problems.
- If you have liver problems.
- If you are a woman and have not passed through menopause.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take diethylstilbestrol
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take diethylstilbestrol exactly as directed by your doctor.
- The dose you have been prescribed will depend on why you are taking diethylstilbestrol. There is a different dose for men and women. Take your dose once each day.
- Try to take diethylstilbestrol at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
- If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.
Getting the most from your treatment
- If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking diethylstilbestrol.
- Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
- Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
- When treatment is stopped, women may experience some irregular menstrual bleeding. This is nothing to worry about and should correct itself.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Can diethylstilbestrol cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Feeling sick | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods |
| Swollen feet and ankles | Putting your feet on a foot-stool whenever you are sitting down should help. Let your doctor know if this is troublesome |
| An increased risk of blood clots Impotence and breast enlargement in men | Your doctor will discuss these with you before you start treatment |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store diethylstilbestrol
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).