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Emcyt Side Effects

Generic name: estramustine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 16, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Emcyt.

Applies to estramustine: oral capsule Side Effects associated with estramustine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Emcyt.

Applies to estramustine: oral capsule.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that the medicine is working properly and does not cause unwanted effects.

While you are being treated with estramustine (the active ingredient contained in Emcyt) and after you stop treatment with it, do not have any immunizations (vaccinations) without your doctor's approval. Estramustine may lower your body's resistance and there is a chance you might get the infection the immunization is meant to prevent. In addition, other persons living in your household should not take oral polio vaccine since there is a chance they could pass the polio virus on to you. Also, avoid persons who have recently taken oral polio vaccine. Do not get close to them and do not stay in the same room with them for very long. If you cannot take these precautions, you should consider wearing a protective face mask that covers the nose and mouth.

Serious side effects of Emcyt

Along with its needed effects, estramustine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking estramustine:

Rare side effects

  • black, tarry stools
  • blood in urine or stools
  • cough or hoarseness
  • fever or chills
  • headaches (severe or sudden)
  • loss of coordination (sudden)
  • lower back or side pain
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pains in chest, groin, or leg (especially calf of leg)
  • pinpoint red spots on skin
  • shortness of breath (sudden, for no apparent reason)
  • slurred speech (sudden)
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • vision changes (sudden)
  • weakness or numbness in arm or leg
  • skin rash or fever
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking estramustine:

More common side effects

  • swelling of feet or lower legs

Other side effects of Emcyt

Some side effects of estramustine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • breast tenderness or enlargement
  • decreased interest in sex
  • diarrhea
  • nausea

Less common side effects

For healthcare professionals

Applies to estramustine: oral capsule.

Endocrine adverse events

Hepatic

Other

Gastrointestinal

Respiratory

Cardiovascular

Hematologic

Metabolic

Dermatologic

Musculoskeletal

Nervous system

Ocular

Psychiatric

Hypersensitivity

See also:

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Emcyt (estramustine)." Pharmacia and Upjohn

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

Further information

Emcyt side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.