Emcyt

(Estramustine Phosphate Sodium)

The active ingredient in Emcyt is estramustine phosphate sodium. It works in 2 ways. First, it blocks your body from making testosterone, so that prostate cancer cells either die or grow more slowly. It also damages the cancer cells’ genetic material, which leads to cell death.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Emcyt. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Emcyt:

• Take capsules with a full glass of water on an empty stomach.
• Do not take Emcyt with dairy products, antacids, or calcium-rich foods, as they may decrease absorption.
• Do not change the dose without medical advice.
• If you miss a dose, take the next scheduled dose only.
• Keep Emcyt away from children and use it only as directed by your healthcare provider.

Some mild or common side effects of Emcyt include:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Leg cramps.
• Impotence.
• Breast tenderness or gynecomastia (breast enlargement).
• Fluid retention.
• Upset stomach.
• Mild dizziness.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Emcyt. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of a heart attack.
• Blood clots in the legs or lungs.
• Signs of stroke like sudden confusion, numbness or weakness in one side of the body, difficulty walking, slurred speech, and vision problems.
• Allergic reactions such as hives, angioedema, or difficulty breathing.
• Worsening high blood pressure or symptoms of heart failure.
• Liver problems, including yellowing of the skin or dark urine.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Emcyt. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Emcyt, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Heart disease, hypertension, or a history of heart failure.
• Liver disease or abnormal liver function tests.
• Kidney disease.
• A history of blood clots.
• Any allergy to estramustine, estrogens, or nitrogen mustard derivatives.
• A need to take calcium, magnesium, or supplements that may interfere with the medication.

Emcyt should not be used in individuals who:

• Are allergic to estramustine, estradiol, estrone, or other related compounds.
• Have active blood clots or a history of clotting disorders.

Some patients may notice symptom changes within several weeks, but the full response varies. Your healthcare provider will evaluate effectiveness through follow-up visits and medical tests.

When Emcyt is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Antacids or calcium-containing products can reduce absorption.
• Dairy products, which interfere with absorption.
• Warfarin may lead to an increased risk of bleeding.

Emcyt (estramustine phosphate) is available as oral capsules containing 140 mg of estramustine phosphate.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Emcyt is manufactured by Pharmacia & Upjohn.

Yes. A generic form containing estramustine is available.

Do not stop Emcyt suddenly without guidance. Your healthcare provider will advise how to discontinue therapy safely based on your condition and treatment response.

Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not take this medication and should not handle the capsules or breathe the dust from them, as the drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs. If a man fathers a baby while using Emcyt, the baby may have birth defects. Use condoms to prevent pregnancy during your treatment.

Talk to your doctor if pregnancy occurs or is possible.

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Emcyt. Ask your doctor for guidance if you plan to breastfeed or are currently breastfeeding.